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.

FILE A PATENT IN THE UK

PROTECT YOUR INVENTION WITH OUR EXPERT HELP

Have you invented something new and want to file a patent to stop others from copying it ?

In collaboration with the UK's best Patent attorneys, we help inventors, startups, and businesses across the UK file patents that protect their ideas, products, and technologies. Whether you're developing a new tool, product or process, we’ll guide you through the full UK and international patent application process - giving you clear, practical support every step of the way.

WHY FILE A PATENT ?

Filing a patent gives you exclusive legal rights over your invention. That means :

You can stop others from making, using, or selling your idea
You can license your invention or sell your patent
You strengthen your position with investors and commercial partners
You gain a competitive advantage in the market

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS BEFORE FILING A PATENT

Before you file, your invention must be :

New (not publicly disclosed)
Inventive (not obvious to others in your field)
Capable of industrial application (can be made or used in industry)

Important : Don’t share your invention publicly before filing - this could invalidate your patent application.

OUR STEP-BY-STEP PATENT FILING SERVICES

We offer expert, fixed-fee support for each stage of the patent process :

PATENTABILITY ASSESSMENT

We review your invention
Confirm whether it meets the criteria for patent protection
Advise you on your options and risks

PATENT SEARCH

Prior art search using UK IPO, EPO, WIPO, and USPTO databases
Identify similar inventions and avoid wasted costs

PATENT APPLICATION DRAFTING

We professionally draft your patent specification, claims, abstract, and drawings
Clear and defensible wording to protect your invention

PATENT APPLICATION FILING

We file your patent with the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO)
International filings available via PCT (WIPO) or directly in key countries
We handle all official communications and paperwork

PATENT OFFICE COMMUNICATIONS AND GRANT

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

INTERNATIONAL PATENT APPLICATIONS

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

Europe (EPO)
United States (USPTO)
Internationally via the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)

Strategic patent filing can help protect your invention in multiple countries.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I file a patent in the UK ? First, your invention must meet the legal requirements. You’ll need a properly drafted specification, and then submit your application to the UK IPO. We handle all of this for you.

Can I file a patent on my own ? Yes, but most self-filed patents are rejected or too weak to enforce. We strongly recommend professional drafting for valuable protection.

How much does it cost to file a patent ? Costs vary, but we offer transparent fixed-fee pricing for drafting and filing UK patents. Get in touch for a quote.

Can I patent an idea ? Only if it’s developed enough to meet the patent criteria: it must be new, inventive, and industrially applicable. Abstract ideas or concepts can’t be patented until technically defined.

Do I need a prototype before filing ? No. You don’t need a prototype to file a patent. A written description is enough - though prototypes can help with development or funding later.

AREAS WE SERVE

We support clients across the UK and abroad, including London, Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Bristol, Cardiff, Liverpool, and more.

We also support international inventors applying for patents in the UK or Europe.

HOW WE CAN HELP YOU FILE A PATENT

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.

Protecting your invention starts with the right support.

For expert guidance and patent help. take the first step ! with a free no obligation patentability assessment. Our advice is completely free and without obligation - and we guarantee to save you on average 30% on typical patent agent / attorney costs.