The European patent office (EPO), in order to boost patent filings by small entities, introduced a very welcome system from 1 April 2024 whereby the official fees paid by micro-entities, natural persons, non-profit organisations, Universities and public research organisations are reduced by 30%. A micro -entity is one employing fewer than 10 persons and having annual turnover of less than 2 Million Euros.
This could save significant amounts, so is well worth claiming.
The organisation or person claiming this benefit must not have filed more than 5 patent applications in the 5 years preceding the application date.
This is a welcome boost for such applicants, particularly for small organisations and individuals. Do contact us for more details.