The EPC does not define what is meant by "invention", but Art. 52(2) contains a non-exhaustive list of things which are not regarded as inventions. It will be noted that the items on this list are all either abstract (e.g. discoveries or scientific theories) and/or non-technical (e.g. aesthetic creations or presentations of information).

The EPC does not require explicitly or implicitly that an invention, to be patentable, must entail some technical progress or even any useful effect. Nevertheless, an advantageous effect, if any, with respect to the state of the art should be stated in the description (Rule 42(1)(c)), as any such effect is often important in determining "inventive step" (see G‑VII, 5).

 

There are four basic requirements for patentability:[Art. 52(1); ]

 

The following states are contracting states[ * ] to the EPC (date of effect of the ratification in brackets):