IPO fee increase from 1 April 2026: What you need to know
15th January 2026
“The UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) is introducing new, increased official fees, and the clock’s ticking. The fees will have an impact for brand owners on the overall cost of managing a portfolio. Therefore, you need to act now on portfolio management matters, such as any possible upcoming filings, renewals and/or recordals, to take advantage of the current fees.”
There is no escaping the upcoming increase in official fees for IP rights holders in the UK. If you’re a rights owner, it’s time to review your portfolios in connection with any upcoming matters requiring action before 1 April 2026, in order to take advantage of the current fees.
What is changing at the IPO?
The intellectual property office (IPO) has announced it is set to increase its fees in relation to all IP rights in the UK. The changes are set to take effect from 1 April 2026 and will mark the first rise in trade mark fees since 1998, design fees since 2016 and patent fees since 2018.
The 25% increase in fees is designed to address the rise in inflation in the UK and will help to manage future cost pressures.
Do IP Right Owners need to take any action?
Not immediately, but if you have any upcoming filings, renewals or recordals on the horizon, you should act before the end of March to take advantage of the current fees. From 1 April 2026 onwards, these actions will all incur greater official fees.
How we can support you
We would be more than happy to review your portfolios and advise further in relation to any proposed cost saving measures.
Please contact Sarah or Sakura to discuss any impact that this increase may have on your IP portfolios.
For more information, here is a link to the official notice: Intellectual Property Office fees to increase from April 2026 – GOV.UK
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