Do you have an innovative idea? Once you have developed your idea, you can protect it from being used by others. It then becomes your Intellectual Property (IP). If it concerns a technical product or production process, we call it an invention. You can protect your invention with a patent. The Netherlands Patent Office is the patent granting authority for the Netherlands. It is part of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency.
Patents and other intellectual property rights
Patents and intellectual property rights
The Netherlands Patent Office is a department of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency. We implement national and international patenting regulations within the Netherlands.
In the Netherlands, patent protection is regulated by the Dutch Patent Act 1995.
Intellectual property rights are divided into 2 categories: 1. Industrial property rights for inventions, trademarks, industrial designs, plant breeders' rights and topographies of semiconductor products. 2. Copyright for works of literature, science and art.
The Netherlands Patent Office helps you with information and advice on getting and maintaining a patent or other intellectual property rights for your idea.
The Netherlands Patent Office provides information for professionals involved in patent law, such as legislation, case law, literature and publications.
If you have an invention, for example a new product or process, you may be able to protect it by applying for a patent. A patent is valid for a particular country or group of countries. You decide in which countries you want protection.
It can be challenging to search through patent databases, such as Espacenet. Let us help you find what you are looking for with our search advice and workshops.
Students, teachers and researchers often work with new, innovative technological developments. The Netherlands Patent Office helps you with information, digital teaching materials, advice and more.
Search patent databases or registers to answer the following questions: Is there a patent granted for a similar idea or product? Is a patent still valid? When can I use the technique described in the patent?
To maintain your patent, you must pay annual fees. If someone infringes your patent, you can take action. You can also decide to sell your patent or issue a license.
To file a patent application and maintain your patent rights, you must pay certain fees to the Netherlands Patent Office.