UK patents require annual renewal fees to remain in force, with a maximum protection period of 20 years. Renewal fees start from the 5th year and increase annually.
| Patent Year | Renewal Fee (£) | Payment Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Year 5 | 70 | 4th anniversary (first day of 5th year) |
| Year 6 | 90 | 5th anniversary |
| Year 7 | 110 | 6th anniversary |
| Year 8 | 130 | 7th anniversary |
| Year 9 | 150 | 8th anniversary |
| Year 10 | 170 | 9th anniversary |
| Year 11 | 190 | 10th anniversary |
| Year 12 | 220 | 11th anniversary |
| Year 13 | 260 | 12th anniversary |
| Year 14 | 300 | 13th anniversary |
| Year 15 | 350 | 14th anniversary |
| Year 16 | 400 | 15th anniversary |
| Year 17 | 450 | 16th anniversary |
| Year 18 | 500 | 17th anniversary |
| Year 19 | 550 | 18th anniversary |
| Year 20 | 600 | 19th anniversary |
Total renewal fees for 20 years: Approximately £4,530
1. The above fees are for online payment (standard rate). Paper filing or late payment will incur significantly higher fees (up to 150% of standard rate).
2. Payment deadlines are calculated from the patent's effective date (filing date), not the grant date.
Example: For a patent filed on June 15, 2020:
UK registered designs have a maximum protection period of 25 years, with renewal fees paid every 5 years instead of annually.
| Protection Period | Renewal Fee (£) | Payment Window |
|---|---|---|
| First 5 years | Included in initial registration | No additional renewal needed |
| Years 6-10 | 70 | Within 6 months before 5th anniversary |
| Years 11-15 | 90 | Within 6 months before 10th anniversary |
| Years 16-20 | 110 | Within 6 months before 15th anniversary |
| Years 21-25 | 130 | Within 6 months before 20th anniversary |
Total renewal fees for 25 years: 70 + 90 + 110 + 130 = £400
1. As with patents, online payment is the standard rate.
2. Late payment is allowed within a 6-month grace period but incurs substantial late fees.
1. Establish a monitoring system: Always base reminders on the UK filing date and initiate the reminder process at least 2-3 months before the deadline.
2. Use online payment: Utilize UKIPO's online payment system to ensure the lowest fees and clearest records.
3. Clear client communication: Clearly specify the exact amount and precise deadline in reports to avoid rights loss due to miscalculation.