About us
-
Jobs
Patent examiners work at the forefront of technology, dealing on a daily basis with the latest and most challenging technical innovations.
-
Legal foundations
The European Patent Organisation is an intergovernmental organisation that was set up on 7 October 1977 on the basis of the European Patent Convention (EPC) signed in Munich in 1973.
-
Our governance
The European Patent Office offers inventors a uniform application procedure which enables them to seek patent protection in up to 42 countries. The Administrative Council acts as the Office's supervisory body.
-
Our principles
Read about our vision and mission and download our service regulations.
-
Our leadership and management
Read about the leadership of the EPO.
-
Our services and activities
Read about the services of the European Patent Office as well as its other activities.
-
Boards of appeal
The boards of appeal, though integrated in the organisational structure of the EPO, are independent of the Office in their decisions and are bound only by the European Patent Convention. The boards deal with appeals relating to the granting of and opposition to European patents.