202508.20
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Albania in the EPC (European Patent  Convention) – validating European patents

Albania is a member of the European Patent Organisation (EPO), from May 1, 2010, which allows validation of European patent applications and patents to Albania.

That fact opens the gate for patent protection in a more centralised and easy way for major patent holders and innovative countries from all over the world.

New legislation concerning patents in Albania

Starting from 16 August 2025 has enforced  a new Law on Patents. One of the major changes which are important for all patent owners with valid patents in Albania is the change in the calculation of the term for payment of the due patent annuity fee

Annuity payments in Albania

Patent annuities are due for payment starting from the third year of the patent term.

Under the new legal framework, the renewal of patent rights must be completed strictly within the prescribed deadline, which is now the anniversary of the patent filing date. The previous regime allowed the payment till the end of the month in which the anniversary falls.

Late renewal requests will continue to be accepted under the grace period regime (currently six months plus possible extension of further two months), subject to surcharge fees.

Surcharge fee –  50% surcharge int he first 6 months and two additional months with a 100% surcharge.