When can I expect the international search report if I select the EPO as ISA?

For international applications claiming priority from an earlier application (national or international), the EPO acting as ISA usually issues the international search report (ISR) and a written opinionwithin three months from its receipt of the search copy or within eight months from the priority date, whichever expires later (see Rule 42 PCT).

If your international application is a first filing, the EPO acting as ISA will usually issue the ISR and written opinion within eight months from the international filing date. The EPO observes this eight-month period for quality reasons as it ensures that all the relevant prior art has been classified and so can be found and considered by the examiner when performing the international search.