Regional Patent Systems
Three major regional patent offices providing efficient multi-country protection through unified filing and examination procedures.
Why Use Regional Systems?
Cost Efficiency
File one application instead of dozens of national applications, significantly reducing filing and attorney costs
Unified Examination
Single examination process instead of separate examinations in each country, saving time and ensuring consistency
Streamlined Process
Simplified procedures for multi-country coverage with centralized prosecution and unified deadlines
Strategic Flexibility
Designate specific member states based on commercial needs while maintaining single application
The Three Major Regional Systems
European Patent Office (EPO)
39 European States
The largest and most important regional patent system globally. File once in English, French, or German for unified examination covering all major European markets.
Languages
English, French, or German
Coverage
39 contracting states in Europe
Examination
Full substantive examination
Validation
National validation in selected states
Member States (39)
African Regional IP Organization (ARIPO)
22 African States
English-language regional patent system serving English-speaking African countries. Provides streamlined access to key African markets.
Languages
English
Coverage
22 English-speaking African states
Examination
Regional examination available
Validation
Designate specific member states
Member States (22)
African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI)
17 African States
French-language regional patent system serving Francophone African countries. Single application provides automatic protection across all member states.
Languages
French
Coverage
17 French-speaking African states
Examination
Unified regional examination
Validation
Automatic protection in all states
Member States (17)
Strategic Filing Recommendations
European Markets
For coverage in multiple European countries, EPO provides the most cost-effective route:
- • Single application in English, French, or German
- • Unified examination by EPO
- • Validate in selected countries after grant
- • Consider London Agreement states for reduced translation
English-Speaking Africa
ARIPO provides efficient access to Commonwealth African markets:
- • English-only filing
- • No translation costs
- • Designate specific countries
- • Good for Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria focus
Francophone Africa
OAPI provides automatic coverage across French-speaking Africa:
- • Single French application
- • Automatic protection in all 17 states
- • Unified regional system
- • Efficient for West/Central Africa strategy
Plan Your Regional Filing Strategy
Connect with our regional patent specialists to develop an efficient multi-country protection strategy.