Moldova Joins the European Patent Organisation (EPO)

The Republic of Moldova became the 40th member state of the European Patent Organisation on 1 June 2026, following its accession to the European Patent Convention (EPC). This milestone brings Moldova into the European patent system and changes how applicants can obtain patent protection in the country.

For businesses, inventors and patent professionals, the key change is that European patent applications filed on or after 1 June 2026 automatically include Moldova in their territorial designation.

What Has Changed for Patent Applicants?

Since 1 June 2026, applicants seeking European patent protection no longer need to follow the former validation procedure specifically for Moldova for new applications. Moldova is automatically included in the European patent designation system, and a separate Moldovan validation fee is no longer required at the application stage.

This change simplifies the filing process and removes the need to take a separate step to designate Moldova under the former validation arrangement. However, automatic designation does not itself guarantee patent protection. Protection remains subject to the application being granted and the applicable requirements being met.

What Happens to Applications Filed Before 1 June 2026?

Moldova's accession to the EPC is not retroactive. European patent applications filed before 1 June 2026 remain subject to the previous validation system. The same applies to international applications under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) with an international filing date before that date, as well as to divisional applications derived from earlier applications where the applicable EPC conditions are met.

For these earlier applications, the existing validation framework continues to apply. Applicants and patent holders should therefore review the relevant filing dates and procedural status before deciding what steps are required to maintain or obtain protection in Moldova.

What Does This Mean for PCT Applications?

The filing date is also important for international applications under the PCT.

PCT applications with an international filing date on or after 1 June 2026 automatically designate Moldova for the purpose of obtaining a European patent through the European phase. International applications filed before that date do not gain the possibility of obtaining a European patent designating Moldova retroactively.

Applicants planning international patent protection should consider Moldova's status when determining their filing strategy and the appropriate route to protection.

Why Does Moldova's EPO Membership Matter for Businesses?

Moldova's accession provides a more integrated route to European patent protection and reduces the need for a separate validation step for new European applications. For businesses operating in or entering the Moldovan market, this development is relevant when planning patent portfolios, international filing strategies and the territorial scope of protection.

At the same time, the distinction between applications filed before and after 1 June 2026 remains important. Existing applications and granted patents may still be governed by the previous validation arrangements, so the applicable requirements should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

How MSP Can Help

Mikhailyuk, Sorokolat & Partners provides patent filing, prosecution and intellectual property protection services across Eastern Europe and Central Asia, including the Republic of Moldova.

Our team can help applicants assess how Moldova's accession to the EPC affects existing applications, plan new filings, and identify the procedural steps relevant to protecting patent rights in the region.

For advice on patent protection in Moldova or other jurisdictions in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, contact MSP for a consultation.