Filing a Patent Application in Germany
This stage involves the formulation of a comprehensive description and illustrations depicting your invention. It also includes crafting of claims, ensuring your patent provides the maximum possible protection.
This stage involves the formulation of a comprehensive description and illustrations depicting your invention. It also includes crafting of claims, ensuring your patent provides the maximum possible protection.
How it works
1
Within minutes, create a request with an AI assistant and receive offers from dozens of local IP attorneys
2
Review offers, compare them, and select the most suitable option. Complete your transaction securely
3
Stay informed on the progress and communicate with your attorney through the platform until the process is complete
Filing a Patent Application in Germany
From $700 + govt fees from $70
-
An AI-powered IP assistant that helps you create a detailed assignment within minutes.
-
Selection of the most suitable local patent attorney based on specific criteria.
-
Drafting a brief description, filing the application, and handling government fees.
-
Online monitoring and reporting on the platform throughout the entire process.
Why iPNOTE?
-
More than 800 IP law firms from 150+ countries, ranking and reviews
-
An AI-powered IP assistant that helps create tasks and find relevant attorneys
-
Flat fees, secure and fast online payments with guaranteed results
-
24/7 access to the registration process and online data storage for all your cases
Our clients
Testimonials
Chris
Raylightenergy, China
Wow, what a great service and you will find that the providers are much cheaper than goig direct. All the attorneys are screened and verified so no need to wonder if you are buying a legitimate service. Have used twice so far and will use it again.
Maria
Sherridge, UK
At a glance iPNOTE is a platform designed for professionals. But at the same time they have so helpful customer support that got me through all stages literally by hand. Being client oriented is a relic feature for modern digital services that trying to automate almost each step.
Jeffrey
Tyan Group LLC, USA
First time going through them and they did not disappoint! I got my trademarked filed right away, and Ian clearly explained everything to me! Great service and fair price!! Plan on using them again!
Hayk
IMAST, USA
Thanks for the excellent service. I managed to register my trademark swiftly and without unnecessary hassle.
Anton
Practico, USA
Great service, thank you! I didn't understand the trademark registration process at all and just want someone to do this job for me. They did it, I'm happy!
Maria
s16vc, USA
Amazing service! I needed to register a trademark in multiple jurisdictions and IP Note helped me. Reliable, fast and transparent process, easy communication with patent attorneys all over the world. Highly recommended.
Tamila
Besample, USA
Easy and fast to onboard, many useful insights. Definitely will continue to use it.
Andrey
Biomicrogels Group, UK
User-friendly app with great functionality and design! All necessary information about IP in one place. In addition to information about patents, there is the ability to set reminders and tasks, track progress, and communicate directly with service providers. And yes, the marketplace is an excellent opportunity to save a significant part of IP budget!
Mikita
BRASK, UAE
I liked working with the Ipnote. Clear, convenient process of finding contractors + there is constant support from the service itself on many issues. We were able to file trademark applications in the USA quickly. Now we will continue in other countries, using the help of the service.
Dmitry
Nucular, Hong Kong
Very professional and fast work. We recommend this company for trademark registration.
Anton
Insense, USA
Very convenient service that helped us register our trademark in a few days. I want to mention the help of the CX team and especially Alex. They helped me and were always in touch. We will use it for registration in other countries.
Alex
Epic Web3, Portugal
Great experience! Applied for a trade mark registration in US and EU for a reasonable price
Alexandr
TMARK, Moldova
We ordered work in more than 10 countries for trademarks and patents, it is very convenient that everything is visible in one dashboard and fast secure payments. Lawyers often offer advice and best solutions for free, which helps a lot when you are not sure what needs to be done and how to do it cheaper. Excellent service I recommend as a patent attorney with 15 years of experience!
Ruben
DIGITORIUM, Spain
iPNOTE is a fantastic platform that allows you to easily extend your IP agent network around the world to better serve your customers. In addition, any need is quickly solved by their support service. I highly recommend it
Frequently Asked Questions
What is patent filing in Germany?
Patent filing in Germany is the process of submitting a formal application to the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA) to seek protection for a technical invention. If granted, the patent gives exclusive rights to the inventor for up to 20 years.
Who can file a patent application in Germany?
Any individual, company, or legal entity—regardless of nationality—can file a patent application in Germany. Foreign applicants typically need to be represented by a German patent attorney.
What types of inventions can be patented in Germany?
Patentable inventions must be new, involve an inventive step, and be industrially applicable. This includes products, processes, and technical improvements. Pure discoveries, mathematical methods, and business methods without technical character are not patentable.
Where can I file a patent application in Germany?
You can file a patent application with the DPMA either online, by mail, or in person. Alternatively, you may file via the European Patent Office (EPO) and designate Germany as one of the countries for protection.
What documents are needed for a patent filing in Germany?
A complete application includes a request for grant, a description of the invention, claims defining the scope of protection, any necessary drawings, and an abstract. All documents must be submitted in German or translated into German.
How long does it take to obtain a patent in Germany?
The process generally takes two to five years, depending on the complexity of the invention, the workload of the DPMA, and how quickly any objections are resolved.
What is the cost of filing a patent in Germany?
Costs include official fees for filing and examination, as well as legal fees if a patent attorney is involved. Initial fees are modest, but they increase with annual renewal payments.
Can I claim priority from a foreign application when filing in Germany?
Yes, if you have filed a patent application in another country within the past 12 months, you can claim priority in Germany under the Paris Convention.
Get all necessary information about working on the iPNOTE platform
Filing a Patent Application in Germany: Step-by-Step Guide
Submitting a patent application is a vital move for protecting intellectual property. As one of Europe’s most innovative economies, Germany offers a well-structured legal framework for inventors, startups, and corporations seeking exclusive rights over their technical solutions. Whether you are filing a national or international procedure, understanding the local requirements is essential. Proper submission increases the likelihood of a successful grant and supports long-term commercial strategies.
Understanding the Patent Application Process
An intellectual property application is typically submitted to the Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA). The process involves preparing technical documentation, sending in the necessary forms, and paying associated charges. The content must fully disclose the invention and demonstrate novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability.
Applicants can file their requests in either German or English, but translation into German is ultimately required. Although it is possible to proceed independently, hiring a lawyer or registered intellectual property specialist is strongly recommended to avoid procedural mistakes.
Key Steps for Filing in Germany
Each filing includes several important stages, from preparing documents to responding to examiner feedback. Here’s an outline of the core steps:
- Drafting of protection documents, including claims, abstract, and detailed description
- Verification of novelty and prior art
- Submission to the DPMA
- Payment of the initial charge and other applicable expense
- Formal review and publication
- Substantive examination upon request
- Grant of protection if all legal standards are met
The process can take several years depending on the complexity of the invention and interaction with the examiner.
Types of Patent Applications Available
Inventors can choose among several paths depending on their protection goals:
- National request: Sent directly to the DPMA, valid only in Germany
- European route: Filed via the European Intellectual Property Office, potentially covering up to 39 countries
- International procedure (PCT): Enables broader coverage and deferred national entry
For early-stage ideas, a provisional submission is not officially recognized, but a similar effect can be achieved through an initial draft that secures a priority date.
Filing Methods and Online Services in Germany
The Intellectual Property and Trademark Office accepts submissions through multiple channels. Applicants can file:
Via postal delivery using official forms
- In person at the DPMA offices
- Through online portals using electronic identification and secure upload
The service offers useful tools such as real-time tracking and receipt confirmation. Many choose the digital method for its speed and convenience.
Application Fees and Associated Costs
The cost of submitting protection documents varies based on the type of procedure and whether professional support is used. Currently, the base charge for a national request is relatively modest compared to other countries, but expenses rise with examination, translations, and ongoing maintenance.
Here’s a simplified breakdown of potential payments:
- DPMA filing fee: starting from €60
- Examination expense: €350 (if applicable)
- Annual maintenance: increasing over time
- Professional assistance: variable based on complexity
Establishing a financial plan early on helps avoid delays or rejection due to missed payments.
Benefits of Filing in Germany
Provides strong enforcement mechanisms and access to one of the largest economies in the EU. By securing protection here, inventors gain:
- Legal exclusivity in the market
- A strong position for licensing and enforcement
- Priority rights for European and international expansion
- Enhanced market valuation for startups and IP portfolios
Final Thoughts
The patent application process in Germany may seem complex, but with proper preparation and expert support, it becomes manageable and highly rewarding. Understanding each step, choosing the right path, and budgeting for protection are critical to long-term success. Whether you are a solo innovator or an international enterprise, securing your rights through strategic planning ensures that your inventions are protected in a competitive market.
