Electronic signature for your INPI filings
The National Institute of Industrial Property has accepted electronic signatures for virtually all of its procedures since 2010. However, not all filings require the same eIDAS level: a trademark filing can use an advanced signature (AES), while a complex opposition sometimes requires a qualified signature (QES). This guide helps you choose the right level and sign your INPI documents quickly with Certyneo.
Which eIDAS level depending on the type of INPI filing?
The required signature level depends on the nature of the document and the legal stakes. Here is a summary of the main INPI filings and the recommended level.
| Filing type | eIDAS level | Documents concerned | Usual timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trademark filing | SES or AES | Registration request, class designation | 1 business day |
| Patent filing | AES recommended | Application, description, claims, abstract | 1 to 3 business days |
| Design & model filing | SES or AES | Application, reproductions, Locarno classification | 1 business day |
| Opposition / procedure | AES or QES | Notice of opposition, memorandum, observations | Depending on file |
| Assignment / registration | AES recommended | Assignment deed, license agreement, RNM registration | 2 to 5 business days |
Why use Certyneo for your INPI filings
Certyneo is designed for intellectual property: SES and AES levels are included, QES is available on demand through our qualified partner, and each signed document comes with a complete audit trail (proof of identity, timestamp, document hash). You can sign your INPI forms individually or group them into a single multi-signatory submission (useful when filing with multiple co-owners).
- AES included from €9/month
- Qualified QES for complex oppositions
- Multi-signatory (co-owners)
- PDF/A storage for 10 years
- Compatible with INPI e-procedures portal
- EU hosting, without Cloud Act
How to sign an INPI document step by step
- 1
Prepare your filing on inpi.fr
Log in to the INPI e-procedures portal, complete the online forms and download the generated PDF (filing form + annexes).
- 2
Import the PDF into Certyneo
Drag and drop the INPI form into Certyneo. All required fields and signatures are preserved (interactive PDF AcroForm supported).
- 3
Choose the signature level
SES for a standard trademark or design filing; AES for a patent or assignment; QES for a strategic opposition. See the table above.
- 4
Sign and download
You sign yourself (and your co-owners if applicable) in just a few minutes. The signed PDF/A is generated with audit trail.
- 5
Upload the signed PDF to inpi.fr
Return to the INPI portal: upload your signed PDF via the dedicated button in your file. INPI automatically verifies the validity of the certificate.
The legal framework for electronic signatures at INPI
INPI has accepted electronic signatures since the order of 16 February 2010, as amended, provided that they comply with the requirements of the European regulation eIDAS (EU) 910/2014. Signatures issued by a qualified trust service provider (PSCo) within the meaning of article 17 of the regulation are accepted by default. For the most sensitive acts (oppositions, appeals), INPI recommends qualified signature (QES).
Frequently asked questions about INPI electronic signature
- Does INPI accept electronic signatures for all filings?
- Yes, for virtually all procedures since 2010. The only exceptions concern a few specific acts (certain counterfeit seizures) that still require the intervention of a bailiff or notary. For standard filings (trademark, patent, design, assignment), eIDAS-compliant electronic signature is sufficient.
- Is a qualified signature (QES) mandatory to file a trademark at INPI?
- No. For a standard trademark filing, a simple signature (SES) or advanced signature (AES) is sufficient. QES becomes relevant for contentious procedures: oppositions, cancellation appeals, proceedings before the European EUIPO when the stakes exceed several thousand euros.
- How much does electronic signature for an INPI filing cost with Certyneo?
- The Certyneo free plan covers 5 envelopes per month (sufficient for most freelancers and SMEs who file occasionally). For higher volumes (IP firms, legal departments), the Personal plan at €9/month or Standard at €19/month is better suited. Qualified QES is billed on usage according to the qualified provider.
- How many signatories can sign a filing in co-ownership?
- Certyneo allows you to invite as many signatories as needed. For a patent or trademark filed by 2 to 5 co-inventors or co-owners, each receives an email link, signs in a few minutes, and the final PDF/A contains all signatures in a single file compliant with INPI requirements.
- Is the PDF signed by Certyneo accepted as-is by the INPI e-procedures portal?
- Yes. The PDF/A produced by Certyneo complies with the technical standards expected by INPI (CAdES/PAdES signature, X.509 certificate, audit trail). INPI automatically verifies the signature validity at upload and confirms receipt by email within 1 to 3 business days.