The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has confirmed that it will increase most of its official fees for patents, trade marks, and designs from 1 April 2026.
Why fees are changing
The IPO has held many of its fees steady for decades to support the UK’s innovation economy. For example:
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Trade mark fees have not increased since 1998.
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Design fees have remained unchanged since 2016.
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Patent fees were last adjusted in 2018.
By aligning fees with the rising cost of delivery, the IPO will be able to fund the "One IPO" transformation programme, modernising the digital infrastructure that underpins the UK’s intellectual property framework.
Key Fee Examples (Online)
| Service | Current Fee | New Fee (April 2026) |
| Trade mark application (1 class) | £170 | £205 |
| Trade mark renewal (1 class) | £200 | £245 |
| Patent search (UK) | £150 | £200 |
| Patent renewal (Year 5) | £70 | £90 |
| Design application (Single) | £50 | £60 |
How to avoid the increase
To avoid the increase, you must submit and pay for your applications or renewals by 31 March 2026.
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Trade marks & designs: Can be renewed up to 6 months in advance.
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Patents: Can be renewed up to 3 months in advance.
For the complete list of all 100+ changes, visit the official GOV.UK guidance: Intellectual Property Office: New fees from 1 April 2026