The validity of the following information is subject to the further evolution of the Covid-19 crisis and the possiblility of organizing the announced events and courses as currently planned. Updated information will be published on the EPO and CEIPI websites in due time.

1. The basic course provides a systematic and comprehensive introduction to the law and practice of the European patent system. Over the years, the CEIPI (Centre for International Intellectual Property Studies) and the epi (Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office) have together devised a basic training programme in European patent law designed primarily for prospective professional representatives before the EPO.

The European Patent Office (EPO) is aware that European patent applicants and proprietors sometimes receive invoices from firms and individuals inviting them to pay for the publication and/or registration of their applications and patents.

New fee rates

The Monegasque Patent Office ("Division de la propriété intellectuelle" in Monaco) has informed us that by Sovereign Ordinance No. 7.954 of 2 March 2020 the amounts of the renewal fees have been changed.^[ 1 ]

Applicants for and proprietors of European patents with effect in Monaco are advised that from 1 April 2020 the rates below apply.

The President of the European Patent Office, having regard to Article 10(2)(a) EPC and Rule 2(1) EPC, has decided as follows:

Article 1

The EPO's filing offices in Munich, The Hague and Berlin will be closed for the receipt of documents on 22 May 2020.