European Patent Convention

1977

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June 26, 2026

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The European Patent Convention (EPC) is an international agreement that established the European Patent Organisation and its executive arm, the European Patent Office (EPO). Signed in Munich on October 5, 1973, the convention came into effect on October 7, 1977. The EPO, headquartered in Munich, aims to foster innovation, boost competitiveness, and support economic growth among its member countries. It handles patent applications, examines oppositions, sets patent protection standards, and makes patent information publicly accessible. The EPO also has boards of appeal to review decisions made by its various divisions.1

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The European Patent Convention, which was implemented in 1977, created a European Patent Office that can issue a European patent, which acquires the status of a national patent in each of the member nations designated by the applicant.
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The European Patent Convention, which was implemented in 1977, created a European Patent Office that can issue a European patent, which acquires the status of a national patent in each of the member nations designated by the applicant.
Read More