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Innovation, research and patents

Ministry of Economic Affairs

The Netherlands Patent Office is a department of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency. We implement national and international patenting regulations within the Netherlands.

About the Netherlands Patent Office

In the Netherlands, patent protection is regulated by the Dutch Patent Act 1995.

Patent system in the Netherlands

Intellectual property rights are divided into 2 categories: 1. Industrial property rights for inventions, trademarks, industrial designs, plant breeders'&nbsp;rights and topographies of semiconductor products. 2. Copyright for works of literature, science and art.

Types of intellectual property rights

The Netherlands Patent Office helps you with information and advice on getting and maintaining a patent or other intellectual property rights for your idea.

Patents for small and medium-sized businesses

The Netherlands Patent Office provides information for professionals involved in patent law, such as legislation, case law, literature and publications.

Patent information for patent professionals

If you have an invention, for example a new product or&nbsp;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.&nbsp;

How to apply for a patent

It can be challenging to search through patent databases, such as Espacenet.&nbsp;Let us help you find what you are looking for with our search advice and workshops.

How to search in patent databases

Students, teachers and researchers often work with new, innovative technological developments. The Netherlands Patent Office helps&nbsp;you with information, digital teaching materials, advice and more.

Patents and education

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?

Patents and databases

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.

How to manage your patent

To file a patent application and maintain your patent rights, you&nbsp;must pay certain fees to the Netherlands Patent Office.

Patents and other intellectual property rights

Patents and intellectual property rights