The UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) has announced an increase in official fees applicable to patents, trade marks and designs with effect from 1 April 2026, subject to Parliamentary approval.
The increases will amount to an average of 25%, reflecting inflation and rising operating costs. The last fee adjustments date back several years (notably 1998 for trade marks).
Practical impact:
- The new fee amounts will apply to applications and renewals filed or paid on or after 1 April 2026.
- Payment of an insufficient fee may result in delays in processing or, in some cases, loss of rights.
Our recommendation:
Rights holders are advised to anticipate their filings and renewals in the United Kingdom in order to benefit from the fees currently in force.
In particular, as renewal fees for designs and trademarks may be paid up to six months in advance, these rights with a renewal date falling up to 30 September 2026 may be renewed in advance before 1 April.
Monitoring and support:
We are closely monitoring the Parliamentary approval process and will provide further updates once the fee increases have been formally adopted.
In the meantime, our teams remain at your full disposal to review and optimise your UK IP portfolios.
January 2026
Contributing author
Carole Roger
European Trademark & Design Attorney