Can I patent an idea in the UK?

No, you cannot patent a mere idea in the UK. You can only patent an invention, product, or process that is new, involves an inventive step, and is capable of industrial application.

How do I know if my invention is patentable?

To be patentable, your invention must be new, inventive (not obvious), capable of industrial use, and make a technical contribution. Artistic works, mathematical methods, and discoveries cannot be patented.

How much does it cost to patent an invention in the UK?

Basic costs include an application fee of £60, a search fee of £150 to £180, and an examination fee of £100 to £130. Renewal fees apply from year 5 onwards.

How long does it take to get a UK patent?

The process usually takes 2 to 4 years, depending on the complexity of your invention and any objections raised during examination.

Should I hire a patent attorney?

While not legally required, it’s strongly recommended. A patent attorney can help draft your application clearly and defensibly, increasing your chances of success.

Can you help me with the patent application?

Yes. i1 Design offers professional invention help, including patent search, design development, 3D CAD modelling, and referrals to trusted patent attorneys for filing and legal support.

Patent an Invention

PROTECT YOUR IDEA WITH EXPERT UK PATENT HELP

Have you invented something new and want to patent your invention before someone else does ?

We help inventors, startups, and businesses across the UK and beyond patent inventions quickly, affordably, and correctly - ensuring your intellectual property is protected and commercially valuable.

Whether you’ve created a new product, process, machine or piece of technology, our team works in collaboration with experienced UK and European patent attorneys to guide you from concept to patent grant.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO PATENT AN INVENTION ?

A patent gives you the legal right to stop others from making, using, or selling your invention without permission. When you patent an invention in the UK, you :

Secure legal ownership over your idea
Gain the right to license or sell the invention
Strengthen your business or startup for investment or launch
Prevent others from copying or exploiting your innovation

WHAT CAN YOU PATENT ?

To patent an invention, it must meet three key legal criteria :

Novelty – your invention must be new
Inventive Step – it must not be obvious to someone skilled in the field
Industrial Applicability – it must be capable of being made or used in some kind of industry

We’ll assess your invention, run prior art searches, and help you build a strong patent application.

HOW WE HELP YOU PATENT AN INVENTION

We offer end-to-end invention patenting services to help you file successfully and avoid costly mistakes :

INVENTION REVIEW AND PATENTABILITY ADVICE

Free initial consultation
Check if your invention meets UK and international patent standards
Strategic advice on commercial protection options

PRIOR ART AND PATENT SEARCHES

Search UK IPO, EPO, and global databases
Identify existing inventions or potential conflicts
Avoid wasted time and rejection

PATENT DRAFTING AND SPECIFICATION DRAFTING

Professionally written patent documents
Including description, claims, abstract, and technical drawings
High-quality drafting increases chance of approval and enforcement

PATENT APPLICATION FILING

We file your application with the UK Intellectual Property Office (UK IPO)
Support with international routes via WIPO (PCT), EPO, USPTO, and more
Transparent filing process with clear timelines

PATENT OFFICE LIAISONS AND COMMUNICATIONS

Responding to examiner reports
Clarifying or amending claims if needed
Supporting you until your patent is granted

INTERNATIONAL PATENTS

Not only can we help you file patents in the UK (UK IPO), we can also help UK inventors apply for:

European patents through the EPO
International patents via the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)
Direct national filings in the US, Canada, Australia, China, and more

Our team advises you on cost-effective, commercially smart patenting strategies.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I patent an idea ? No. You must have a technical solution or invention that can be described and applied in practice. We help you turn an idea into a patentable invention.

How much does it cost to patent an invention in the UK ? UK IPO filing fees are relatively low, but professional drafting and advice are essential. We offer flexible pricing to match your needs and budget.

Do I need a working prototype to apply for a patent ? No - you only need to be able to describe the invention clearly and show how it works.

How long does it take to get a patent ? It typically takes 2.5 to 4 years for a full UK patent to be granted. You get protection from your filing date if your application is successful.

Can I patent an invention internationally ? Yes - through the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) or by filing directly in other countries. We guide you through the process step-by-step.

WE SERVE INVENTORS ACROSS THE UK

We help clients in London, Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Bristol, Cardiff, Liverpool and more - and offer remote support UK-wide and internationally.

The benefits of partnering with us

We support inventors from idea to patent.

In collaborating with our patent partners - DF Bluem :

We will provide an honest appraisal on your project and examine patent suitability.
Make suggestions to improve the commerciality of your design and the chances of obtaining a grant.
Undertake a free patent search prior to proceeding with the application process.
Produce 3D CAD design and patent-ready drawings
Design and build prototypes to verify the commerciality of the design.
Prepare and file your UK, international patent application and pursue it through to grant.
Deal with any IPO objections and maintain and file renewals.
Advise on ways of leveraging your IP rights, including using the Patent Box.
Assist with the transfer of your legal rights to a third party.