We’re continuing our work to modernise and simplify the way customers interact with the Intellectual Property Office (IPO). As part of this, we’re making a number of changes to our patent paper forms to ensure they’re clearer and better aligned with our new digital services.
A new combined patent form
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of a single, combined form to replace four existing paper forms: Form 1, Form 7, Form 9A, and Form 10.
This combined form brings together the functions of applying for a patent, submitting inventorship details, requesting a search, and requesting examination. You do not need to complete the form in its entirety. You can just complete the parts of the form relevant to the action you need to take. This mirrors the application process within the One IPO account.
Changes to how paper forms can be submitted
To support the transition to our new online service, we’ll start to phase out the use of email for our forms. This aligns with the direction of our broader channel‑shift programme, where users are encouraged to use digital routes first. This won’t be straight away, and we’ll tell you when this will happen.
For low volume forms, such as restore a patent, you will be prompted to download and complete a PDF form. Once you have completed the form you will upload it via your account. For everything else, the options will be to complete the form online or to send the form in the post.
Paper forms will continue to be available for all forms for accessibility and legislative reasons, but email will no longer be the standard submission method.
Introducing front covers to support channel shift
Some paper forms will include new front covers clearly signposting customers to the relevant digital service where applicable. These covers explain when a user should use the online service instead and why it benefits them (for example, faster processing or immediate confirmation).
No change for trade marks and designs
If you’re filing trade mark or design forms, nothing changes at this time. These forms will continue to be submitted by email in the usual way. The current improvements relate only to patent forms.
What happens next?
Once the new process goes live, we’ll update our paper forms and guidance pages on GOV.UK so that customers have clear, consistent information on all routes available to them. These changes will be made 01 April 2026 to coincide with changes to our fees.
Find out more
To find out more about our new digital patent service, you can:
- view our roadmap of planned changes, improvements and enhancements over the coming months
- visit our transformation web pages, which include detailed information about the new patents service
- watch our playlist of detailed demo videos showcasing the new service.
- contact us at pilot@ipo.gov.uk if you have any questions
- subscribe to the IPO blog to receive new posts straight to your inbox, so you don’t miss any important updates.
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