Patents explained: How to protect your idea

Applying for a patent may seem complex but breaking the patent application process into clear steps makes it manageable. Here's how you apply for a patent in the UK.

Step 1: Prepare your UK patent application

Your application must include:

• a detailed description of your invention
• any drawings necessary to illustrate your invention
• claims that define the scope of the protection sought
• an abstract summarising the invention

Prototypes can support your application but are not a substitute for proper documentation.

Patent specifications are legal documents and can be complex. For the best chance of success, consider working with a patent attorney or adviser. The UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has patent factsheets to assist you with your patent application.

Step 2: File your UK patent application

Submit your application to the IPO online or by post. If you apply online, the initial application fee is £60 if paid at the time of filing. If you pay later, the fee increases to £75. The fees are higher if you apply by post. Learn more about patent fees from the IPO.

You must file your application before making your invention public. Disclosing your invention too soon could disqualify you from patent protection.

Step 3: Request a patent search

You must request a search from the IPO within 12 months of your filing date to confirm that your invention is new and inventive. The search fee starts from £150, and you'll typically receive the search report within six months.

Step 4: Publication and patent examination process

If your application is complete, the IPO will publish it - usually 18 months after your filing date - making the details of your invention public. At this stage, you may want to mark your invention as ‘patent pending' to deter potential infringers.

You must request a substantive examination within six months of publication, and pay the associated fee. During the patent examination process, the IPO will assess whether your invention is new, inventive, and meets other patentability criteria. You may need to respond to feedback or provide additional information during this process.

Step 5: Decision on your patent application

If successful, your patent will be granted. You'll receive exclusive rights to your invention for up to 20 years, provided you renew it annually. Renewal fees start after the fourth year and increase over time.

Patent costs and other considerations

The cost of filing a UK patent varies based on its complexity and any professional fees incurred. It will cost at least £310 if you complete the process unassisted. The full process can take several years to complete, although the IPO has different accelerated procedures in place to speed up patent application processing. 

Download the IPO's patent grant timeline for an overview of the UK patent process (PDF, 44KB).

Once granted, you must enforce your rights if others infringe on it. This may involve legal action, which can be costly.

If you plan to sell or use your invention abroad, you'll need to apply for patents in other countries. Systems like the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) can streamline this process.