NL Patent Office

Searching for patents yourself

It takes time and money to develop a product. You should therefore ensure that you do not simply 'reinvent the wheel'. By studying patent literature, you can glean a great deal of important information, such as information about the inventions of others. This will enable you to make a well-considered decision: either to stop or to continue developing.

Searches in patents can be carried out at home, on the computer. Databases containing patent information can be accessed free of charge on the internet.

Databases
Our website contains references to different patent databases, but also an explanation about searching in patent literature. Most databases are suitable for providing an initial exploration. Please take care not to conclude too hastily that your invention cannot be found in the patent literature.

Please contact our public information office by e-mailaddress This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or telephone number +31 88 602 60 00 for assistance with your search.