The validation agreements signed by the European Patent Organisation (EPO) offer European applicants the opportunity to efficiently extend the protection of their inventions beyond Europe’s borders. Costa Rica is the latest country to join this initiative, becoming the 6th official partner.
Since 2010, the EPO has established validation agreements with several non-member countries, including:
Morocco
Republic of Moldova
Tunisia
Cambodia
Georgia
Costa Rica
Simplified Procedures: A single European patent application is sufficient to obtain legal protection in partner countries, reducing administrative formalities.
Equivalent Legal Status: European patents validated in these countries are considered equivalent to locally filed patents, ensuring strong and recognized protection.
Enhanced Business Opportunities: By extending their protection to international markets, European companies can explore new growth opportunities.
The validation agreements address the needs of businesses seeking international expansion. They help reduce the costs and time associated with protecting inventions while increasing the visibility and value of their patent portfolios. With Costa Rica’s inclusion, these agreements also strengthen ties between Europe and emerging economies.