EPO Fee Increase Takes Effect April 1, 2026

The European Patent Office (EPO) has announced official fee increases effective April 1, 2026. Most fees will rise by approximately 5%, although filing, opposition, and appeal fees remain unchanged.

For example: €4,945 in official fees currently due for a PCT application (with CNIPA as ISA) entering the European regional phase will increase to €5,185 after April 1, 2026—a €240 difference.

Act before April 1st to avoid the increase. Consider entering the European regional phase or making advance official fee payments on existing applications before this date.

On a positive note: OBWB's professional fees will remain unchanged in 2026. Contact us to discuss which European patent applications to prioritize before April 1st, or to explore our fee arrangements for greater budget predictability.