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INPI launches new version of the Patents Module: what changes in 2026

INPI announces new features for the Patent Services Module: exclusive application filing, integrated annuities, and the end of Electronic Petitioning for patents.

On July 2, 2026, INPI announced the second version of the Patent Services Module, scheduled for release in August 2026. This new feature represents another step in the agency’s automation plan and promises to transform how applicants, IP firms, and companies interact with the Brazilian patent system.

The filing of national invention patent applications, utility model applications, and certificates of addition — in addition to entry into the national phase of the PCT — will now be done exclusively through the Patent Services Module. Electronic Filing (service 200) will no longer be accepted for these purposes.

What changes with the new version

The second version of the module brings functionalities that address two of the biggest friction points in the current system: application filing and annuity management.

More intuitive application filing

The new system will feature assisted resources to facilitate the filing of patent applications. Although INPI has not detailed each specific functionality, the announcement indicates that there will be step-by-step guidance during filing, reducing filling errors — one of the main causes of technical requirements and examination delays.

Annuities integrated into the system

One of the most practical new features is the integration of annuity payments directly into the module. The system will guide the user in issuing the GRU corresponding to the due annuity and, when necessary, to the restoration fee for the application or patent. In the personalized workspace, it will be possible to consult a table with annuity deadlines and receive advance notices in the Mailbox.

For firms managing hundreds of processes, this functionality significantly reduces the risk of missing deadlines — one of the biggest causes of patent forfeiture in Brazil.

Transition period

The PAG system will remain available for issuing payment slips during the transition, ensuring that no user is left without an alternative while adapting to the new platform. Electronic Filing will no longer be used for filing patent applications (service 200).

Official schedule

INPI has released a three-phase schedule:

PeriodMilestone
July 2026Start of testing period, availability of support materials, user guides, and exclusive service channel
August 2026Launch of the second version with migration of patent application filings
November 2026Third version with migration of other patent services

The forecast is that by the end of 2026, all patent services will be available in the new module.

Context: INPI’s automation plan

This update is part of the Patent Flow Automation Project and INPI’s Action Plan, which foresees the complete digital transformation of the agency by 2029.

INPI 4.0 — as the plan became known — includes everything from the digitalization of internal processes to the implementation of AI-assisted examinations. The migration of patent services to a unified module is the centerpiece of this modernization effort.

Practical impact for system users

For individual applicants and startups

The new module simplifies the application process, reducing the learning curve and the chance of errors that lead to requirements. With integrated annuities, it becomes harder to miss deadlines — a common problem for independent inventors who do not have portfolio management services.

For IP firms

The migration requires adaptation of internal workflows. Firms that use automated filing systems will need to update their integrations. On the other hand, centralizing services in a single module can simplify the management of multiple processes.

For companies with international portfolios

Entry into the national phase of the PCT through the Patent Services Module unifies the process with national filing, eliminating the need to use distinct systems for each modality.

What to observe in the coming months

  • July 2026: follow the publication of support materials and user guides — these will be essential for team training
  • August 2026: launch date of the second version; INPI will announce the exact date through official channels
  • Testing: the testing period in July is an opportunity to identify bottlenecks and provide feedback to INPI

The modernization of the Brazilian patent system is a continuous process, and this update represents a concrete step towards a more digital, efficient, and accessible INPI.

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