Filing a European patent: Step up a gear in protecting your innovation

Your European patent application from €999 plus VAT

(plus formalities), orchestrated by an expert IP lawyer.

By applying for a European patent, you benefit from protection in 39 countries of the European Patent Organization (EPO). This gives your innovation extensive protection within the European Union and beyond.

What is a European patent?

A European unitary patent is a new form of invention protection in 17 European Union countries, based on the European patent granted by the European Patent Office (EPO). It’s a simplified alternative to conventional national and European patents.

Evidence recognized by courts

Recognized by the courts the world over.

Affidavit valid for life

You will have evidence for life.

Registration valid in 11 languages

Your registration is available in French, English, Italian, Chinese, German, Portuguese, Arabic, Spanish, Korean, Japanese, and Russian.

Affidavits available 24/7

Receipt of registration available online 24/7.

European patent application process

1. Fill in the online form.

2. Prior art search: This is a crucial step, enabling you to check whether your invention has already been patented.

3. Filing the patent with the EPO: once you've verified the availability of your invention, you can file your patent with the EPO. Filing includes payment of official fees and submission of all necessary documents, including a description of your invention, any sketches and the claims that define the scope of protection.

European patent filing stages: timeline

After filing with the EPO, the application is examined in detail, which can take several years. Applications are published 18 months after filing or priority. Following examination, if your application is approved, a patent is issued. Patent filing and maintenance fees vary according to the number of countries in which you want your invention to be protected.

Risks associated with the European patent

Failure to comply with the EPO’s obligations may lead to revocation of the patent. In addition, poor management of annuity payments can also result in the loss of the patent. So it’s important to stay vigilant and meet all deadlines.

The Fidealis guarantee for European patent applications

With Fidealis, your European patent application is in safe hands. We support you throughout the entire process, from prior art search to the final filing of your patent with the EPO. Our services also include tracking all deadlines to ensure that your patent remains valid. Costs are transparent, and you don’t pay anything until you’ve approved an estimate.

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