The foundation stone has been laid, and in practical terms this means that companies within a number of years, in a simple manner, will be able to apply for a patent that is valid all over Europe in a simple manner.
However, there are still some important elements to get settled before the EU Patent will be a reality. Among them are the matter of translation of patent applications and patent claims, and deliberations about the establishment of a common European Patent Court System. Furthermore, the EU Parliament has to approve the EU-patent.
You can find further information on the EPO's website http://www.epo.org/topics/news/2009/20091208.html
