Obtaining A European Patent for your Invention

Obtaining a European patent involves several steps and considerations. Firstly, the applicant files a patent application with the European Patent Office (EPO). The application undergoes a thorough examination process to assess its novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability. During examination, the applicant may respond to objections raised by the EPO examiner, providing arguments or amendments to the claims if necessary.

 

If the application meets the criteria for patentability, the EPO issues a Notice of Allowance, granting the patent. However, before the patent is officially granted, the applicant must pay the required fees and validate the patent in the desired European countries of their choice. Validation typically involves translating the patent into the official languages of the selected countries and fulfilling any additional national requirements.

 

Once validated, the European patent provides protection in the designated countries for a specified period, typically 20 years from the filing date of the application. Throughout the patent's lifespan, the owner must pay maintenance fees to keep the patent in force. Enforcement and defense of the patent rights are managed at the national level, meaning any infringement or legal action occurs within the jurisdiction of each designated country.

 

Overall, obtaining a European patent involves navigating a comprehensive process that spans multiple stages, from filing the initial application to validation in individual countries and ongoing maintenance. It requires careful attention to detail, strategic decision-making, and collaboration with patent professionals to maximize the patent's value and protection in Europe and overseas.

For help securing a European patent contact:

Georgios Georgellis

European Patent Attorney

of Counsel 

RICHARDT PATENTWALTE

email:georgellis@richardt.eu