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The EPO provides high-quality patents and efficient services that foster innovation, competitiveness and economic growth.
Searching for patents
Find out what technology already exists
European Patent Register European Publication Server Espacenet patent search
Applying for a patent
Law and practice
Keep pace with the latest legal developments
Official JournalEuropean Patent ConventionGuidelines for Examination
Boards of Appeal
Independent review of EPO decisions
News
Accessible, trusted insights that inform research and policymaking
Vice-President Christoph Ernst highlights epi’s role in advancing patent profession, education and quality
High-level meetings held with ministers, national offices and users in Germany, the UK and Italy
Latest EPO audit figures confirm positive trend in quality indicators
Events
Videos
Get to know the EPO!
Our statistics and Patent Index
The latest figures and patenting trends from the EPO, including data downloads and country-specific profiles.
Transparency Portal
Gain insight into our operations and decision-making processes.
Our strategy
In SP2028, the EPO will have one goal: sustainability. Our people, technologies, high-quality products and services, the partnerships the EPO develops and financial sustainability are the five drivers that will enable us to build a more sustainable patent office.
Observatory on Patents and Technology
Dedicated to outreach and research, it provides access to the latest technology trends through digital tools, events, and in-depth economic and technology studies.