A significant milestone for the European patent system: As of 1 June 2026, the Republic of Moldova has officially become the 40th member state of the European Patent Organisation.
This marks a historic development, as Moldova is the first former validation country to accede to the European Patent Convention and become a full member state of the European patent system.
As a result, European patent applications filed on or after 1 June 2026 automatically designate Moldova, further expanding the geographical scope and economic value of European patent protection. Applicants can now obtain broader patent coverage through the European patent system without the need for separate validation in Moldova.
Offizielle Quelle:
Republic of Moldova joining EPO