For applications filed on or after 1 January 2002, the following numbering system applies:

The application number consists of nine digits. The first two digits (from left to right) of the application number indicate the filing year. The last digit is a check digit. The remaining six digits in between are used for consecutively numbering the applications in the order in which they arrive at the place of filing, starting from a lowest number within a specific range of six-digit numbers. The specific range reflects the place of filing. Where applicable, the range is subdivided into two ranges in order to distinguish between paper and online filings.

The above also applies to international applications designating "EP" (Euro-PCT applications), albeit that for these applications a dedicated range for the above-mentioned six-digit number within the application number is used, which does not reflect the place of filing.

A list of the number ranges currently in use, along with, where appropriate, the corresponding places of filing, is published in OJ 10/2001, 465.