1. Conditions for patentability in France and Europe

A patent protects a technical innovation for 20 years in France, Europe and most other countries. A patent prohibits third parties from manufacturing, marketing or using the invention. It thus creates a monopoly of exploitation for its holder. However, the patent system relies heavily on national legal bases, and so requires registration in every country where protection is desired.

In Europe, a European patent covers the whole of the European Union and beyond (nearly 40 member countries).