09/03/2026
The UK IPO confirmed on 5th November that it plans to increase fees by an average of 25% across patents, trade marks and designs. The fee increases are due to have effect from 1 April 2026.
Trade mark fee changes
Trade mark application fees will rise under the new structure. The official fee for filing a trade mark application online will increase from £170 to £205, whilst paper applications will rise from £200 to £250.
Renewal fees will also increase. The fee for renewing a trade mark registration at the 10-year mark will rise from £200 to £245 for both online and paper applications for the first class. For every class after the first, costs will rise from £50 to £60.
Opposition proceedings will become more expensive. The fee for filing a notice of opposition based solely on identity or likelihood of confusion grounds will increase from £100 to £125, whilst oppositions including other grounds will rise from £200 to £250. Fast track opposition fees will increase from £100 to £125, and the fee for adding grounds to an opposition will rise from £100 to £125.
Applications to start invalidation proceedings will increase from £200 to £250, whilst applications to revoke a mark for non-use (or other reasons) will also rise from £200 to £250.
The fees will have an impact for brand owners as the overall cost of managing a portfolio will increase. Given this, we recommend acting now on portfolio management matters, such as any possible upcoming filings, renewals and/or recordals, to take advantage of the current official fees before the increase. UK trade marks can be renewed up to six months in advance, so where any UK trade marks or designs are due for renewal before 30 September 2026, we strongly recommend renewing before 1 April 2026.
We would also recommend applying for any new marks in the UK prior to 1 April, particularly if these are part of any filing programme (including if claiming priority).
Finally, any portfolio reorganisation that involves UK trade marks should be undertaken prior to 1 April to take advantage of the lower official fees.
This article is for general information only. Its content is not a statement of the law on any subject and does not constitute advice. Please contact Reddie & Grose LLP for advice before taking any action in reliance on it.
