https://www.epo.org/en/legal/guidelines-revision-cycle

Guidelines revision cycle

Feedback on the Guidelines

The EPO actively seeks feedback on the most recent edition of the Guidelines in a public user consultation each spring, but users are welcome to send suggestions for additions or improvements at any time of the year to Guidelines@epo.org.

Updates

1.4.2025
Guidelines 2025 enter into force

3.2.2025
Preview versions of Guidelines 2025 published – send us your feedback!​

17.12.2024
Updated Guidelines for 2025

10.10.2024
​​Second round of discussions on EPC, PCT-EPO and Unitary Patent Guidelines

3.5.2024
Users meet to discuss improvements for the Guidelines 2025 and the development of future UP Guidelines

1.2.2024
Your opinion matters – Guidelines 2024 pre-published today​

5.5.2023
Evaluation of the feedback on the Guidelines 2023

1.3.2023
Guidelines for Examination 2023 enter into force

1.2.2023
Tell us your views on the latest EPC and PCT-EPO Guidelines

13.10.2022
Users discuss the final version of the EPC and PCT-EPO Guidelines

31.5.2022
EPC and PCT-EPO Guidelines 2022: next steps

20.5.2022
Users discuss updates for the Guidelines 2023

1.3.2022
New Guidelines for Examination 2022 enter into force

3.2.2022
Public consultation opens on latest EPC and PCT-EPO Guidelines

12.11.2021
Users assess common approach on Office practice for adapting the description at grant

29.10.2021
Users discuss finalising EPC and PCT-EPO Guidelines for March 2022

4.8.2021
Results of public user consultation published

9.6.2021
Letter from Director Patent Law to SACEPO Working Party on Guidelines

7.6.2021
Extra month to contribute to EPO Guidelines consultation