EPO fees are going up in April 2026: Plan ahead now
Just like your business rates, energy charges or annual software subscriptions, you need to take into account the rise in IP related fees too. We recently highlighted the upcoming increases at the UKIPO here. Now, the EPO has announced its own update: some official fees will rise by around 5% from 1 April 2026.
The changes affect many of the most common fees incurred during patent prosecution, including the search, examination, designation and renewal fees, while filing, excess page, opposition and appeal fees remain unchanged.
EPO Fee Changes Effective 1 April 2026
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Some fees can be brought forward, such as the renewal fees which can be paid up to three months in advance, thereby securing the lower rates. We encourage you to speak to EIP to obtain advice tailored to your portfolio well ahead of the April 2026 deadline.
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UKIPO fee increases from April 2026: What it means for your IP strategy
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