IPO set to increase fees from April 2026 

The UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has confirmed that its official fees for patents, trade marks and registered designs will rise from 1 April 2026, subject to parliamentary approval. This will be the first comprehensive fee review in several years, and one that reflects both inflation and the growing need to invest in modern systems. 

The IPO’s fees have remained static for a long time: since 2018 for patents, 2016 for designs, and as far back as 1998 for trade marks. Over that period, the IPO has absorbed cost pressures through internal efficiencies and investment in digital tools. Unfortunately, with inflation rising by more than 30% since 2016, the IPO has said a price increase is now required for them to maintain service quality. 

While fee changes are rarely welcome news, the IPO emphasises that the price increase will support continued investment in digital services, security, and user experience. 

What are the expected price changes for trade marks, designs and patents? 

The headline figure is a 25% average rise across the board. In practical terms, a registered design application will go from £50 to £60, and a trade mark application fee will rise from £170 to £205. 

The IPO plans to publish further guidance early in 2026 to help businesses understand the changes and manage filings that fall around the transition date.  

How can you prepare for the IPO price increases? 

For most businesses, this increase will not dramatically alter filing strategies, but it’s a timely reminder to review your intellectual property budgets and upcoming renewals. Organisations with large portfolios, or those considering new filings in the next 18 months, may benefit from advancing certain applications before April 2026 to take advantage of current rates. 

Beyond the immediate financial impact, the rise signals a continued focus on system improvements. Over recent years, the IPO has rolled out enhanced online filing services and a more streamlined user interface, making it easier for businesses and advisers to protect and manage their rights efficiently. 

Ben Evans, Head of Trade Marks at Harper James, commented: 

While any increase adds cost for businesses, this change should help the Intellectual Property Office maintain and modernise the systems we all depend on.

The important thing for clients is forward planning, understanding how these changes align with their filing and renewal cycles, and budgeting accordingly.