Frequently applicants explicitly request a further written opinion (under Chapter II) if the examiner's opinion is still negative. If the applicant has not yet had a further opportunity to file amendments in Chapter II, this request must be granted (see GL/PCT‑EPO C‑IV, 2.2).

If the applicant has already had a further opportunity to file amendments, then as a rule the IPER is issued directly (see however also GL/PCT‑EPO C‑IV, 1).