The UK Intellectual Property Office says inflation has eroded long-standing fee levels, prompting the first major increase in years.
The UK Intellectual Property Office (UK IPO) has announced plans to increase official fees for patents, trademarks, and registered designs beginning April 1, 2026, subject to parliamentary approval. The move marks the most significant adjustment to UK IP fees in more than a decade and, for trademarks, the first substantial increase in nearly thirty years.
The announcement reflects mounting inflationary pressures and rising operational costs following an extended period in which most UK IPO fees remained unchanged.
What Has the UK IPO Announced?
In short, most official UK IP fees are going up, with patents seeing the steepest increases.
According to the UK IPO, patent-related fees will rise by approximately 33 percent on average, while trademark and registered design fees will increase by about 23 percent. The changes apply across a broad range of official actions, not just initial filings.
For businesses that rely on UK intellectual property protection, the increase represents a structural shift in long-term cost planning rather than a narrow procedural update.
Why Is the UK IPO Raising Fees Now?
The increase follows decades of fee stagnation.
Patent fees were last meaningfully adjusted in 2018. Registered design fees have not been updated since 2016. Trademark fees, governed under the UK Trade Marks Act 1994, have remained largely unchanged since 1998.
During that same period, inflation has climbed by more than 30 percent, steadily reducing the real value of official fees. The UK IPO has stated that the increase is necessary to maintain service levels, invest in digital infrastructure, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the UK IP system.
Which UK IPO Fees Are Affected?
The changes extend well beyond filing fees.
The revised fee schedule affects:
- Patent search and examination fees
- Patent renewal and procedural fees
- Trademark application and renewal fees
- Registered design filing and renewal fees
- Certain administrative actions, including recordals and oppositions
As a result, the cost of securing and maintaining IP rights in the UK will rise across the full lifecycle of a patent, trademark, or design.
When Will the New Fees Take Effect?
The new fees are scheduled to apply on April 1, 2026, subject to approval by Parliament.
Until then, existing fee levels remain in force. Importantly, UK IPO fees are generally determined by the date payment is received, not by the date an application is examined or processed. That timing distinction creates a limited opportunity for cost planning.
What Does This Mean for Businesses and Rights Holders?
Timing may be critical.
Businesses with anticipated filings or renewals in late 2025 or early 2026 may be able to reduce costs by acting before the new fees take effect. Trademarks and registered designs can typically be renewed up to six months early, and certain patent fees may also be paid in advance.
For companies managing large or international portfolios, even moderate percentage increases can compound quickly. The announcement is likely to prompt renewed evaluation of filing strategies, portfolio scope, and the commercial value of existing rights.
How Do UK Trademark and Patent Fees Compare Internationally?
Despite the increase, the UK remains relatively competitive.
While the adjustment is significant by UK standards, UK IPO fees continue to compare favorably with those charged by other major IP offices. The UK remains an attractive jurisdiction for patent and trademark protection, particularly for businesses operating across Europe and global markets.
What Should Companies Do Now?
The focus should be preparation, not urgency.
Businesses should review upcoming filings and renewals, update IP budgets to reflect the new fee structure, and consider whether planned applications should be accelerated. Early coordination with IP counsel can help identify opportunities to manage costs without compromising protection.
The broader takeaway is that UK IP fees, after years of stability, are once again a variable that requires active management.
Frequently Asked Questions (faq)
When will UK IPO fees increase?
The new fees are expected to take effect on April 1, 2026, subject to parliamentary approval.
Which IP rights are affected?
The increase applies to patents, trademarks, and registered designs, including filing, renewal, and certain procedural fees.
How much are UK patent fees increasing?
Patent fees will see the sharpest rise, increasing by roughly 33% on average, while trademark and registered design fees are set to climb by about 23%.
Can businesses still pay current UK IPO fees?
Yes. In most cases, fees paid before April 1, 2026 will be charged at current rates.
Should companies file or renew early?
In many cases, early filing or renewal may reduce costs, particularly for businesses with multiple UK IP assets.
Key Takeaway
The UK IPO’s planned 2026 fee increase reflects a delayed response to inflation rather than a sudden policy shift. For businesses, the impact will depend largely on timing and portfolio size. Companies that plan ahead may limit the financial impact, while those that do not may face significantly higher UK patent and trademark costs.
