How to Register and file a Patent in Spain

In an increasingly competitive world, the protection of inventions and creations is essential to guarantee business success. In Spain, one way to protect innovations is through the registration of a patent. However, the process can be complex and requires a solid understanding of Spanish patent law.

In this article, we will explain in an informative way how to register and file a patent in Spain, the necessary procedures, advice and recommendations, as well as promote the services of our law firm specialized in legal advice to national and international companies.

What is a patent?

A patent is an industrial property title that grants the holder the exclusive right to exploit an invention for a specified period, generally 20 years, from the date of application. The patent is granted based on the inventive activity, the novelty and the industrial application of the invention.

How to register a patent in Spain?

The patent registration process in Spain begins with the filing of an application before the Spanish Patent and Trademark Office (OEPM). 

The application must contain a detailed description of the invention, as well as any drawings or diagrams necessary to illustrate it. It must include a list of the claims of the invention, which define the elements that are considered novel and non-obvious.

Once the application is filed, the OEPM will examine the invention to determine if it meets the patentability requirements, that is, if it is new, inventive and capable of industrial application. If the invention is found to meet these requirements, the patent will be granted. 

However, before granting the patent, the OEPM will publish the patent application in its Official Gazette of Industrial Property so that third parties can file oppositions if they consider that the invention does not meet the patentability requirements. If no oppositions are filed or if they are dismissed, the OEPM will grant the patent. 

The duration of a patent in Spain is 20 years from the filing date of the application. Once the patent is granted, the owner will have the exclusive right to exploit the invention and to prevent third parties from using it without their authorization.

It is important to note that patent registration and filing can be expensive and may require considerable time and resources. For this reason, it is essential that companies carry out a careful assessment of the feasibility of the invention before beginning the registration process.

How much does it cost to register a patent in Spain?

The cost of registering a patent in Spain can vary depending on various factors, such as the type of patent, the scope of the protection requested, and the fees of the professionals who advise and carry out the registration.

In general, the costs associated with the registration of patents in Spain can be divided into two main categories: the costs of filing the application and the costs of maintaining the patent. 

Application filing costs may include filing fees, examination fees, search fees and publication fees. These fees can vary depending on the type of patent and the way the application is filed (for example, whether it is filed on paper or online). 

Patent maintenance costs include annual renewal fees that must be paid to maintain the validity of the patent. These fees may vary depending on the type of patent and its duration. 

In addition to the official costs, it is important to take into account that patent registration may require hiring the services of lawyers or patent agents for legal advice and representation during the registration process. The fees of these professionals may vary depending on the complexity of the invention and the duration of the registration process.

In general, the total cost of registering a patent in Spain can range from a few hundred to several thousand euros. It is important to carefully assess the costs associated with patent registration and ensure that you have the necessary financial resources before starting the registration process.

Tips and recommendations for registering a patent in Spain

Seek the help of a lawyer or a patent agent: The patent filing process can be complicated, so it is advisable to seek the help of a lawyer or a patent agent to ensure that the application is correct and complete.

Keep the invention confidential: Before filing a patent application, it is important to keep the invention confidential. Public disclosure of the invention prior to the filing of the application may negatively affect the patent registration process.

Perform a thorough background search: Before filing a patent application, a thorough background search is necessary to ensure that the invention is new and does not infringe existing patents.

Where to go for quality advice on patent registrations 

In our law firm we offer specialized legal advice to national and international companies in matters of patents and trademarks, including the registration and registration of patents in Spain. 

We have a team of lawyers who are experts in patent and intellectual property law who can help protect your inventions and creations. 

In addition to patent registration, we can help with the preparation of confidentiality agreements, the drafting and filing of trademark and design applications, the management of intellectual property portfolios, and the defense of intellectual property rights in case of infringement. 

The registration and file of patents in Spain can be a complex process, but it is essential to protect innovations and guarantee business success.

If you need legal advice in this area, do not hesitate to contact our law firm for more information about our services. Our team of patent property lawyers is here to help you with whatever you need.