PCT International Search and Preliminary Examination Guidelines
PART I INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW
Chapter 2 Overview of the International Search Stage
2.22 Under Article 15(5), an International Searching Authority may be entrusted with carrying out "international-type searches" for national applications. These searches are by definition similar to international searches, and the same considerations for establishing the search report will apply. However, only the search itself is carried out; no written opinion is established for such applications unless there is a specific arrangement between the Offices involved for such an opinion to be established at the same time.