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File inspection

Yellow document folders with a single blue file

Which files can be inspected?

The case files of the following IP procedures can be inspected by anybody without charge:

  • patent applications after publication (compare Sec. 31 Patent Act)
  • utility models (Sec. 8(5) Utility Model Act) upon registration
  • trade marks (Sec. 62 Trade Mark Act) upon registration
  • designs (Sec. 22 Design Act) also upon registration

Online file inspection is available for most of the patent and utility model case files via DPMAregister. Online file access is not possible for trademark and design proceedings.

Request for access to files

A written request is required for file inspection - except for online file inspection. Mailing address and fax number you will find on the website Contact. Please provide a separate request for each file number. Usually, it will take about two weeks to deal with the request.
The files can then be inspected at one of the three the offices of the DPMA in Munich, Jena and Berlin. You can also order paper copies or prints of the case file for a charge.

Exclusion from access to files

Certain parts of files are excluded from file inspection, if the person concerned has an overriding legitimate interest in the privacy of their data (e.g. personal information allowing to draw conclusions about the economic, financial or health situation of the applicant, such as for example, requests for reinstatement or legal aid).

Access to files in pending court proceedings

DPMA files relating to proceedings pending before the Federal Patent Court (BPatG) or the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) are also available within the scope of the DPMA's file inspection procedure. Files created at the BPatG or BGH can be inspected at the respective court.

Limited access to files in the case of unpublished property rights

For the inspection of case files of still unpublished IP rights, a procedure called "restricted file inspection" is applicable. The inspection of unpublished files is subject to a written request and a fee. The request for file inspection is granted if the person filing the request can prove a justified interest.

Once the application has been approved, the documents cannot be viewed online, but only by sending copies or viewing them at the DPMA's offices. To view a file in one of the two search rooms in Munich or Berlin or at the information centre in Jena, please make an appointment (contact details for making an appointment).

Picture: iStock.com/vasabii

Last updated: 5 March 2026