When must the applicant decide on the territorial scope of protection sought for the European patent?
Upon entry into the European phase the applicant must pay the designation fee (see point 5.8.001). Payment of this fee confirms the designation of all EPC contracting states that were designated on the international filing date for a European patent (see points 1.8.001, 2.10.001 ff).
Within the time limit for payment of the designation fee, the applicant must decide on the extension or validation states for which he seeks extension or validation of the European patent and must pay the due fee (see points 2.11.001 ff, points 5.8.009 ff). This fee is to be paid for each extension or validation state, and no flat fee applies.
Source: http://www.epo.org/applying/international/guide-for-applicants/html/e/ga_c5_1_3.html
Date retrieved: 17 May 2021
9 references found.
Click X to load a reference inside the current page, click on the title to open in a new page.EPC Implementing Rules
XR.159 EPC The European Patent Office as a designated or elected Office – Requirements for entry into the European phase