PCT International Search and Preliminary Examination Guidelines
PART I INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW
Chapter 2 Overview of the International Search Stage
Time Limit for Establishing International Search Report
2.13 The International Searching Authority must establish the international search report (or a declaration made that the International Searching Authority is not required to perform a search or cannot perform a meaningful search) and written opinion within:
(i) three months from the date of receipt of the search copy, or
(ii) nine months from the priority date of the application,
whichever time limit expires later.