The UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is launching its new One IPO patents service in early 2026, replacing existing systems and introducing a single online platform for managing patents.
The One IPO Patents Service will provide
- a central IPO account dashboard to view, manage and update UK patents
- digital workflows for changes of address, representative and ownership
- improved application tools with draft saving, collaboration, and reduced error-risk
- access groups to control visibility for teams or clients
- reuse of stored information to save time
Here are some actions your business should take now to prepare for a smooth transition to the One IPO Patents Service.
1. Track the official launch date
The IPO will confirm the service go-live date six to eight weeks in advance, once central government clearance is complete. Expect the announcement in early 2026. You can monitor updates via GOV.UK, IPO’s social media channels, and the IP Connect newsletter.
2. Set up your IPO account
Large patent holders with more than 200 patents will be contacted by the IPO directly. They will receive help with linking patents to your company’s account. Your nominated administrator will create the company’s account and invite team members.
Smaller patent holders will be able to create an account directly via the IPO website once the service launches to the public. If you have any questions about setting up your IPO account, contact [email protected].
3. Understand service changes
Three services are currently used to apply patents in the UK eOLF (provided by the European Patent Office), WebF (provided by the IPO), and Paper (provided by the IPO)
eOLF (European Patent Office system)
One IPO will eventually replace eOLF for UK filings. If you’re currently using eOLF, you will be offered access to the new One IPO service by the end of 2025. From 1 Jan 2026, the European Patent Office (EPO) will stop technical support for eOLF. The UK IPO intends to accept UK patent applications via eOLF until 1 April 2026, if you are unable to use the One IPO service for any reason. From 1 Jan 2026, all Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) applications with the UK as receiving office must be filed via the World Intellectual Property Organization’s (WIPO) ePCT service.
WebF
The WebF service will be replaced immediately by One IPO when it launches to the public.
Paper filings
The IPO will continue to accept GB, PCT and EP paper fillings, although the forms will change to reflect the new system.
4. Renew your eOLF soft certificate
Users of the eOLF service use soft certificates to access the eOLF service. Certificates expire annually. Renewal is required to bridge into 2026. You should
- request a soft certificate by emailing [email protected] by 30 November 2025
- provide your name, organisation and email address
- install the certificate provided on your device
- enrol it on the IPO “How to file” page
5. Prepare for new digital services
Keep up with the IPO’s updates over the coming weeks and months focusing on specific changes customers can expect from the One IPO Service, and how to get more information. You may also want to prepare staff training on the new One IPO tools to leverage digital efficiencies.
For more information, read a detailed overview of the One IPO Patents Service and guidance on how to use it. If you have any questions about the service, contact [email protected].
