The UK Intellectual Property Office has announced plans to increase a range of official fees from 1 April 2026, subject to parliamentary approval.
This is the first major update to the UK’s IP fee structure in many years, and the figures released so far suggest rises of roughly 20–40% across several procedures, with an average increase of around 25%.

While the changes are not yet final, the current fee levels will remain in place until 31 March 2026. This gives businesses a clear window to look at their portfolios and consider whether certain actions might be more cost-effective if completed sooner rather than later. For many rights holders, even small adjustments in timing can make a noticeable difference once the new fees come into force.

For anyone managing a UK portfolio, this is a good moment to step back and take stock.
If you already have filings planned for the coming year, or if you know that certain renewals or recordals have been delayed, it may be useful to look at them again with the April 2026 date in mind. This applies whether your portfolio involves just a few rights or a larger group of trade marks, designs or patents.

What Does This Mean for Rights Holders?

Although the changes are not yet final, it may be useful to consider the following:

1. Upcoming Filings

If you are planning new UK trade mark, design or patent filings, you may wish to take advantage of the current fee structure before April 2026.

2. Portfolio Maintenance

Renewals due in early 2026 might be reviewed to determine whether early action could reduce future costs.

3. Administrative Updates

Recordals such as assignments or ownership updates may be more cost-effective if completed ahead of the changes.

4. Budget Planning

Businesses with large or active IP portfolios may wish to update their 2025–26 budget forecasts based on the proposed fee ranges.

How MON IP Can Support You?

We can assist with:

Reviewing your existing portfolio
Identifying filings or renewals that could be brought forward
Providing tailored cost estimates based on the proposed changes
Advising on strategic timing ahead of the April 2026 transition
Supporting contentious or transactional matters that may be affected

If you would like to discuss how the proposed fee changes may impact your business, please contact us at:
info@monip.co.uk