How do I get a patent in the UK?

To obtain a UK patent, you must determine whether your invention is new, inventive and capable of industrial application. The process typically involves carrying out a patent search, preparing a patent application, filing it with the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) and responding to any examination reports before the patent is granted.

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Q: Can software or AI be patented?

In some circumstances, yes. Software and AI inventions may be patentable if they solve a technical problem in a new and inventive way. A patent attorney can advise whether your software or AI innovation is likely to qualify for patent protection.

Q: What can't be patented in the UK?

Not every idea can be patented. Discoveries, scientific theories, mathematical methods, aesthetic creations, business methods and certain computer programs are generally excluded from patent protection. An invention must also be new, involve an inventive step and be capable of industrial application.

Q: Can London IP help with international patent applications?

Yes. London IP helps clients obtain patent protection outside the UK through European, international (PCT) and national patent applications. We can recommend the most appropriate filing strategy based on your commercial objectives, target markets and budget.

Patent Services with London IP

Ensuring your creative work is protected through the patent system can be complicated and expensive if the process is not properly planned. From the initial patent searches to determine the feasibility of your patent through to filing your application in the UK, Europe and beyond, the goal of our patent attorneys is to provide as wide a scope of protection as possible, whatever your budget.

With a focus on delivering a wide scope of protection, our experienced patent attorneys in London prioritise your budget without compromising on quality. We offer reliable and cost-effective patent services to safeguard your innovative ideas and inventions.

If you have not yet filed a patent application, it is important to keep your invention confidential. Any non-confidential disclosure of an invention before filing can prevent you from obtaining patent protection, so we recommend speaking to a patent attorney before disclosing, publishing, presenting or marketing your invention in any manner.

How Our Patent Attorneys Can Help

Protecting an invention is rarely a single step. Our patent services can support you from your initial idea and patentability assessment through to grant, maintenance, licensing and enforcement.

Patentability assessments and patent searches

Not every invention can be patented. We can assess whether your invention is likely to meet the legal requirements for patent protection, including novelty, inventive step and industrial application.

We can also carry out patent searches to identify existing patents, published applications and other prior art that may affect your invention. This can help identify potential issues before you invest further in an application. Find out more about what can be patented in the UK.

Drafting, filing and prosecution

A patent application is both a technical and legal document. Our patent attorneys carefully prepare the patent specification and claims to describe your invention clearly while seeking the broadest appropriate protection.

Once an application has been filed, the relevant patent office may raise questions or objections during examination. We manage this correspondence, advise you on the issues raised and respond on your behalf as the application progresses. You can learn more about the process on our UK patents page.

UK, European and international patent applications

We provide UK patent services as well as advice and assistance with European and international applications. Because patent rights are territorial, it is important to consider where you intend to manufacture, sell or license your invention.

Our attorneys can help you develop a filing strategy that reflects your target markets, commercial plans and available budget. Find out more about protecting your invention through overseas patent applications.

Patent maintenance and portfolio management

Once a patent has been granted, it must be maintained correctly. We can assist with renewals, changes of name, address or ownership and the ongoing management of individual patents or wider intellectual property portfolios.

A UK patent can remain in force for up to 20 years from its filing date, provided the required renewal fees are paid. During this time, we can continue to advise you as your products, markets and commercial objectives develop.

Patent licensing, enforcement and disputes

Our patent services extend beyond filing and maintenance. We can advise on patent licensing and commercialisation, suspected infringement and the enforcement of your patent rights. We can also assist if your business is accused of infringing another party’s patent.

If you wish to oppose a patent or patent application, our attorneys can advise and represent you before the UK Intellectual Property Office and European Patent Office. This may include challenging the validity of a patent and seeking its revocation where appropriate. Read more about patent infringement, claims and enforceability.

Explore Our Patent Services and Guidance

Patent Box

Learn how qualifying businesses with patented technology may be able to benefit from Patent Box tax relief.

What Can Be Patented in the UK?

Understand the principal requirements an invention must meet to qualify for patent protection.

UK Patent Search

Explore patentability, freedom-to-operate and invalidity searches and how they can support informed decisions.

UK Patents

Find out more about UK patent applications, filing options and the application process.

Overseas Patents

Learn about the options available for seeking patent protection outside the UK.

Patent Infringement, Claims and Enforceability

Understand what may constitute patent infringement and the options available for enforcing or defending patent rights.

Patent Costs

Find information about the professional and official fees that may arise during the patent process.

UK Patent News

Read the latest patent news, guidance and commentary from London IP.

Why Choose London IP?

Choosing the right patent attorney can make a significant difference to the strength and commercial value of your intellectual property protection.

At London IP, we combine technical knowledge with specialist legal training and commercial understanding. Our team includes Chartered and European Patent Attorneys with experience across fields including chemistry, physics, engineering, electronics, software and life sciences.

We take the time to understand each invention and recommend an approach that reflects the client’s objectives and budget. Whether you require support with one stage or throughout the life of a patent, you will receive clear, practical advice from an experienced professional.

Patents can also work alongside other intellectual property rights. For example, a patent may protect how a product works, while a registered design protects its appearance and a trade mark protects its name or branding. Our team can advise on design services and trade mark services as part of a wider protection strategy.

Whatever stage you are at, you can find further information in our guide to patents or contact London IP for a free telephone consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a patent attorney?

A patent attorney is a legal professional who specialises in protecting inventions and intellectual property. Patent attorneys advise inventors, entrepreneurs and businesses on whether an invention is patentable, carry out patent searches, draft patent applications and guide clients through the UK and international patent process. At London IP, our experienced patent attorneys help clients secure robust patent protection whilst avoiding common pitfalls that could affect the value of their intellectual property.

How to get a patent in the UK?

To obtain a UK patent, you must first determine whether your invention is new, inventive and capable of industrial application. The process typically involves carrying out a patent search, preparing a detailed patent specification, filing an application with the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO), responding to examination reports and, if successful, obtaining grant. Working with a patent attorney can help improve the quality of your application and maximise the protection your patent provides.

How much does it cost to apply for a patent in the UK?

The cost of obtaining a UK patent depends on the complexity of your invention and the work involved in preparing and prosecuting the application. Costs usually include UKIPO official fees together with professional fees for drafting the application and responding to examination reports. As every invention is different, we recommend seeking advice early so we can provide a tailored estimate based on your commercial objectives.

How long does it take to get a UK patent?

A UK patent application typically takes between two and five years to reach grant. The exact timescale depends on factors such as the technology involved, the complexity of the invention and whether objections are raised during examination. Throughout the process, a patent attorney can manage deadlines, respond to the UKIPO and help keep your application progressing smoothly.

Can software or AI be patented?

Potentially, yes. While software "as such" is excluded from patent protection in the UK, software and AI inventions that solve a genuine technical problem in a new and inventive way may be patentable. Because this is a complex area of patent law, we recommend obtaining specialist advice before filing an application.

Do I need a patent attorney to file a patent application?

No. You can file a patent application yourself, but many inventors choose to work with a patent attorney because patent drafting is highly technical. A well-prepared patent application can provide broader protection and reduce the risk of objections, amendments or unnecessary limitations that could weaken your patent rights.

What can't be patented in the UK?

Not every idea is eligible for patent protection. Discoveries, scientific theories, mathematical methods, aesthetic creations, business methods and certain computer programs are generally excluded from patentability under UK law. An invention must also be new, involve an inventive step and be capable of industrial application. A patent attorney can assess whether your invention is likely to meet these requirements before you invest in an application.

Can London IP help with international patent applications?

Yes. We regularly assist clients seeking protection outside the UK. Depending on your commercial plans, we can advise on European patent applications, international (PCT) applications and national filings in individual countries. Our patent attorneys will help you develop a filing strategy that balances protection, timescales and budget while supporting your long-term business goals.