What you need to know about changes to UKIPO fees in 2026

Surprised to hear that UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) fees for patents, trademarks, and designs are set to increase from April 1, 2026? You’re not alone.

These proposed changes – subject to final parliamentary approval – would be the first major UKIPO fees update in years.

Businesses and brand owners can expect an average increase of 25% in official costs, making proactive portfolio management more important.

Fee changes: What does this mean for me?

UKIPO fees are increasing across the board in 2026, affecting almost every stage of the intellectual property (IP) lifecycle, from initial filing to late renewals and oppositions.

For trade mark owners, the changes include the following:

 

Service type (Online)	Current fee	New fee (from April 1,  2026)	% increase
Trade mark application filed online (1st  Class)	£170	£205	+20.6%
Additional class fee	£50	£60	+20%
Trade mark renewal (1st Class)	£200	£245	+22.5%
Notice of opposition (all grounds)	£200	£250	+25%

 

When will the new UKIPO fees take affect?

The new UKIPO fees will take effect on April 1, 2026.

Any applications, renewals, or proceedings initiated on (or after) this date will be subject to the higher rates.

Fees will be charged at the existing rate up to and including March 31, 2026.

Why is the UKIPO increasing fees in 2026?

In a news release, the UKIPO said it is increasing fees to counter inflation costs, which have risen by 32% since 2016.

Official fees for trade marks haven’t increased since 1998, designs since 2016, and patents since 2018.

For a long time, the IPO absorbed rising costs by improving efficiency and using its existing reserves.

What can rights holders do now?

As a rights holder who may have multiple filings, the cumulative effect of a 25% increase can be a substantial, unforeseen expense.

So, what can you do?

Pay now to lock in current fees

Renewing now, or any time before April 1, 2026, will mean the current, lower fee applies.

Trade marks can be renewed up to six months in advance so, even if your renewal deadline is after the price increase comes into effect, paying before that date ensures you stay on the 2025 tariff.

Review your portfolio

Look at your existing marks to identify which are essential to your business, and which are nearing renewal.

By completing new applications for brand expansions, or sub-brands, before the deadline, you can avoid the higher filing costs.

Talk to the experts

Ideal if you’re a company that has multiple filings, calling on outside support from a specialist team like Trademark Eagle can make a difference.

Managing a large portfolio requires a strategic approach, and experts can help to avoid a last-minute rush by mapping out renewal dates and prioritising filings.

Of course, rising costs can also negatively impact individuals, or startups where investment in trade marks is vital but must be balanced with a tight budget.

That’s why filing applications ahead of the price increase will ensure savings, and the team at Trademark Eagle can assist with securing that essential protection.

How Trademark Eagle can help

Trademark Eagle specialises in helping businesses navigate the complexities of intellectual property law with clarity and foresight.

We can review your existing portfolio and help you to make the most of the current lower UKIPO fees before they rise.

Initial consultations are free, so don’t hesitate to get in touch.

You can either give us call by dialling 0808 1890 219, reach out online, or email an enquiry to enquiries@trademark-eagle.com

Trademark Eagle provides GLOBAL COMPREHENSIVE IP PROTECTION: Trade mark registration; brand management; enforcement