GA C3.1.2 3.1.2.

What is the role of the EPO as ISA? 
3.1.003
For every international application, the EPO as ISA issues either an International Search Report (ISR) and a Written Opinion of the International Searching Authority (WO-ISA) under Chapter I PCT or, in exceptional cases, a Declaration of Non-Establishment of International Search Report and a WO-ISA indicating that the ISA is not required to perform a search or cannot perform a meaningful search (see points 3.2.005 ff).
Art. 17(2), 18 PCT
3.1.004
The ISR contains, among other things, the citations of the prior art documents considered relevant, the classification of the subject-matter of the invention and an indication of the fields searched. 
R. 43 PCT
3.1.005
The WO-ISA provides the applicant with a preliminary, non-binding opinion on the issues of novelty, inventive step and industrial applicability. This allows the applicant to assess, already at the search stage, whether to proceed directly to the national/regional phase or to file a demand under Chapter II PCT in order to overcome objections raised in the WO-ISA and possibly receive a positive IPER. However, before taking a decision on filing a demand for international preliminary examination, applicants are advised to consider carefully the information regarding the usefulness of the procedure under Chapter II PCT (see points 4.1.001 ff).

Source: http://www.epo.org/applying/international/guide-for-applicants/html/e/ga_c3_1_2.html

Date retrieved: 17 May 2021

9 references found.

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EPO Guide for Applicants, part II Int.

EPO Guide for Applicants, part II Int. - C The EPO as ISA and SISA

PCT Articles

PCT Implementing Rules