Since 1 December 2017, it is possible to ask for validation of European patents in Tunisia.
Achour law firm is specialist in validation of European patents in Tunisia.
Tunisia signed a validation agreement with the EPO on July 3, 2014, which entered into force on December 1, 2017. Tunisia is not a member of the EPO or EPC, but this agreement extends the reach of European patents into North Africa. It’s useful for companies and inventors interested in protecting inventions in the Tunisian market.
Validation of European Patents in Tunisia — Overview:
Once a European patent application is filed with the EPO, the applicant can request validation in Tunisia. This means that the European patent will have equivalent legal effect in Tunisia as a national Tunisian patent. It becomes enforceable in Tunisia upon successful validation.
Validation of European Patents in Tunisia — Timing, Fees, Languages: The application must be made when filing the European patent application or within 6 months of publication of the European search report. The validation fee must be paid to the EPO within 6 months of the date on which the European search report is published. As of 2025, the validation fee for Tunisia (TN) is EUR 180 (subject to change, always confirm with EPO).
The accepted languages are: English or French or Arabic. Otherwise, if the European Patent application is in English or French or Arabic languages, then there is no need to provide a translation of the claims into Arabic or French to the Tunisian National Institute for Standardization and Industrial Property (INNORPI) after grant.
Post-Validation Requirements: Once the European patent is granted, the applicant shall complete national formalities before the INNORPI (e.g., pay fees, appoint local agent, etc.). Failure to do so in time can result in loss of rights in Tunisia.
Validation of European patents in Tunisia — Process:
- Filing the European Patent Application at the EPO. At the time of filing, or within 6 months of publication of the European Search Report (ESR), request validation for Tunisia.
- Payment of the Validation Fee : Payment of the validation fee for Tunisia to the EPO: Amount: EUR 180 (as of 2025) within 6 months of the ESR publication date. Late payment may be allowed with a surcharge, but if not paid at all, validation in Tunisia is no longer possible.
- Waiting for the European Patent to Be Granted. The EPO continues examination of your application. Once granted, the EPO publishes the mention of grant in the European Patent Bulletin.
- Start the National Phase in Tunisia: Once the European patent is granted and validated, national requirements in Tunisia shall be fulfilled within 3 months from the publication of the mention of grant (Grace period is 3 extra months). During this period:
- Submitting the granted European Patent along with and application to INNORPI (Tunisian IP office) for validation. If the European Patent was granted in English or French or Arabic languages, then there is no need to provide a translation.
- Appointment of a local representative and payment of official charges.
If these formalities are not completed in time, the patent won’t be effective in Tunisia.
- Patent Enforcement and Maintenance in Tunisia: Once validated, the European patent has the same effect as a national Tunisian patent. Annual maintenance fees must be paid in Tunisia to keep it in force.
Should you require any information or help in connection with validation of European patents in Tunisia, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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