European patent applications must be filed in writing. They may be filed by delivery by hand, by postal services (see A‑II, 1.1) or by means of electronic communication (see A‑II, 1.2).[Rule 1; Rule 2(1); ]

1.1 Filing of applications by delivery by hand or by postal services

1.2 Filing of applications by means of electronic communication

1.3 Filing of applications by other means

1.4 Subsequent filing of documents

1.5 Debit orders for deposit accounts held with the EPO

1.6 Forwarding of applications

1.7 Application numbering systems