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Epoline Online Filing (eOLF) software for patent professionals

Please note that the eOLF software will be shut down at the end of May 2025. Start using our new Patent Service.Open link in a new tab

You can use the Epoline Online Filing (eOLF) software for filing patent applications with the Finnish Patent and Registration Office (PRH). It is intended for patent professionals and those who frequently apply for patents. The eOLF has been created by the European Patent Office (EPO), and we have added our application forms to it.

You can file patent documents using eOLF every day of the year. The date of receipt will be the exact day the documents arrive at the PRH, including weekends and holidays. We will send you an acknowledgement of the submission.

eOLF has extensive properties

To use the eOLF software, you need to acquire a smart card and to install the software on your computer. The introduction of eOLF may therefore take some time and be difficult. However, it offers possibilities that professionals need when filing applications, for example, a function for claiming priority, and a function for applications resulting from division or separation. Furthermore, you can use eOLF to send European patent applications, international PCT applications, utility model applications, and responses to PRH office actions.

eOLF can be used by several persons together. For example, one person can prepare an application, and another person can sign and submit it. In this case, you could choose to download the full software package on one computer and only part of the package on the other computers.

You can either use the actual software or the Patent Management System (PMS) user interface, through which you can send your application and documents directly to us from your management system. Read more about PMS on EPO's website.Open link in a new tab

Please observe

Patent RegulationsOpen link in a new tab, Annex 2 includes special instructions on e-Filing:

  • The sender is responsible for delivering the documents.
  • Documents can be submitted to the PRH online 24/7.
  • Attach the documents to your application in PDF format. You can also attach the original files to the application in other file formats. Obvious mistakes can be corrected on request according to the original files. The applicant is responsible for that the original files can, if necessary, be converted in a controlled manner to another file format which we are able to open.
  • The application is given a filing date, which is the day when the application has been delivered and when we have access to the application documents.
  • We will acknowledge receipt of the documents.

Need more help for online patenting?

Read more about the legislation: Patent Regulations, Annex 2 includes special instructions on e-FilingOpen link in a new tab

Printable version Latest update 31.03.2025