On 8 June 2026, the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) published updated internal guidelines on the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools, reinforcing safety, transparency and legal compliance.

Background

The EUIPO first adopted staff guidelines on GenAI use in 2023. With the EU Artificial Intelligence Act now in force and the European Commission having issued guidance on the responsible use of AI, an update was needed to align the Office's approach with the latest EU regulatory framework.

Key Points

The update takes the form of Communication No 1/2026, issued by EUIPO Executive Director João Negrão, which replaces the 2023 guidelines. The new framework sets out how GenAI tools can be used safely and transparently across the Office, while maintaining human oversight, data protection and legal compliance.

The updated guidelines introduce clear rules on prompting and information handling, distinguishing between public, restricted, confidential and secret information. Particular attention is given to the protection of personal data, the verification of AI-generated outputs and the need for human oversight at all stages.

The Communication stresses that staff remain fully responsible for any content generated with AI tools: AI outputs must always be critically reviewed for factual accuracy, bias, hallucinations and possible copyright issues before further use or dissemination. As part of the Office's broader AI strategy and upskilling efforts, the mandatory 'AI Driving Licence' training introduced in 2025 continues to apply to all new colleagues joining the Office.

Practical Implications

Although these are internal rules, they reflect the current standard of GenAI governance adopted by an EU agency under the AI Act framework. They offer a useful reference for applicants and IP firms in assessing their own AI compliance policies and anticipating how EU institutions approach AI-generated materials.

Source: European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) (original)