In a move set to benefit inventors, research institutions, and small businesses across Ireland, the Intellectual Property Office of Ireland (IPOI) has signed a new working agreement on search co-operation with the European Patent Office (EPO).
The agreement, signed by James Kelly, Controller of IPOI, and António Campinos, President of the EPO, took effect from 1 July 2025. It allows the IPOI to request the EPO to carry out patent searches on national patent applications filed in Ireland — significantly enhancing the quality and speed of patent search and examination processes.
What This Means for Applicants
Under the new arrangement, patent applicants in Ireland will benefit from:
• Access to EPO’s high-quality search reports and written opinions - the gold standard in prior art searches across Europe.
• Earlier insights into the patentability of their inventions - critical for assessing novelty and inventive step before entering European or international stages.
• Improved ability to make strategic IP decisions and attract investment - essential for pitching to investors, preparing for funding rounds, or entering new markets.
Importantly, the agreement includes a special provision aimed at making the service more accessible to smaller entities. An administrative agreement will reduce the search fee by up to 80% for qualifying micro-entities, SMEs, and public research institutions.
Strategic European Collaboration
The agreement is part of the EPO’s broader effort to strengthen cooperation with national patent offices across Europe, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and accessibility across the patent landscape.
Ireland now joins a growing list of countries that have entered into similar agreements with the EPO to streamline patent search services.
A Boost for Irish Innovation
The new co-operation agreement positions Ireland more competitively in the European innovation landscape as it brings world-class patent search capabilities directly to Irish applicants.
“This agreement brings the EPO’s world-class patent search capabilities closer to Irish innovators,” said António Campinos, EPO President. “It enhances access to essential IP services and supports the growth of a knowledge-based economy in Ireland.”
“We’re proud to offer enhanced services to Irish applicants through this agreement,” added James Kelly, IPOI Controller. “Reducing the cost of expert search reports will make it easier for innovators and entrepreneurs to protect their ideas and plan their IP strategies effectively.”
The full press release can be accessed here
How We Can Help
At FRKelly, we are closely following the implementation of this agreement and are best positioned to advise clients on how to take full advantage of the opportunities it provides.
If you're considering a national Irish patent filing—or would benefit from early patentability insights under the new EPO‑IPOI scheme—please feel free to reach out and discuss how this agreement could benefit your specific situation.
