🇪🇺 Europe

European Union — IP Filing Guide

Paris ConventionPCT MemberMadrid Protocol
File at EPO; PCT national phase within 31 months
European Search Report issued
Examination on absolute and relative grounds
Grant decision; patent validated nationally (or as Unitary Patent)
Unitary Patent: request unitary effect post-grant — covers 18 EU states with single renewal fee
UPC: single court for infringement and revocation — pan-European injunctions possible
Annual renewal fees payable to each national office or EPO (Unitary Patent)
EUTM: one application at EUIPO covers all 27 EU member states
Filing fee: ~€1,050 for one class (online)
Examination for absolute grounds; relative grounds via opposition only
Opposition: 3 months from publication
Non-use vulnerability after 5 years
Madrid Protocol: international application can designate EU (EUTM)
UK (post-Brexit) requires separate UKIPO filing
Registered Community Design (RCD) at EUIPO: covers all 27 EU states
Hague System: international design application can designate EU
Term: 5 years from filing, renewable 4 times (25 years total)
Deferred publication available for up to 30 months
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