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.

How to Patent an idea in the UK

Have you invented something new? Wondering how to patent your invention and protect it from being copied? You're in the right place.

YOU CANNOT MERELY PATENT AN IDEA !

To secure a patent, your invention must be more than just a concept; it must be a new, inventive and industrially applicable product or process. The idea must be developed into something concrete, such as a method, apparatus, or composition, and must meet specific criteria outlined by the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO).

We help inventors, entrepreneurs, and startups patent their inventions in the UK and internationally. Whether you’re at the concept stage or ready to file, our expert team makes the patent process simple, affordable, and effective.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO PATENT AN IDEA ?

Patenting an idea means securing legal protection for your invention, stopping others from making, using, selling, or copying it without permission. A granted patent gives you exclusive rights to your innovation for up to 20 years in the UK.

However, you can’t patent just an idea - your idea must be developed into a real, working invention that meets strict criteria :

It must be new (not already known)
It must be inventive (not obvious)
It must be capable of industrial application

We’ll guide you through every step to ensure your invention qualifies for patent protection.

THE THREE PRIMARY PATENT STEPS

STEP 1 : CHECK IF YOUR INVENTION IS PATENTABLE

Before spending time and money on a patent, it’s essential to carry out a patent search. We’ll help you :

Search existing patents in the UK and worldwide
Identify if your idea is truly original
Understand what makes your invention unique

Already done a basic search ? Great - we’ll do a free deeper review using professional patent databases and technical expertise.

STEP 2 : PREPARE YOUR PATENT APPLICATION

A strong patent application requires detailed technical writing, including :

Patent claims
Drawings and diagrams
Background and problem solved
Description of how the invention works

We’ll write and prepare your application to maximise your chances of grant, whether you want protection in the UK only or plan to expand internationally.

STEP 3: FILE YOUR PATENT APPLICATION

Once your application is drafted, we can file it directly with :

The UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO)
The European Patent Office (EPO)
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)

We’ll also monitor deadlines, examination responses, and ensure your rights are protected at each stage.

PATENT LICENSING, SELLING AND COMMERCIALISATION SUPPORT

We don’t stop at filing. We help you turn your patent into commercial success by supporting :

Licensing deals with manufacturers or investors
Selling your idea or invention outright
IP valuation and pitch materials for funding

You invented it - now let’s protect it and make it profitable.

LOCATIONS WE SERVE

We work with clients across the UK including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Bristol, Cardiff, and beyond - offering full remote patent services.

SEARCH TERMS WE CAN HELP YOU WITH

Patent attorney near me
Local patent attorney services UK
Find a patent lawyer in my area
UK IPO patent filing help
Patent protection for inventors
Help with patent applications near me
Leeds patent attorney
Manchester patent lawyer
London IP filing service

Why Choose us to help patent your idea ?

UK-based patent specialists with a commercial edge
Affordable packages for startups and individuals
Fixed fees available – no hidden costs Support from idea to grant – and beyond
Remote help available across the UK and abroad

How iI can help you compile and 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.