I do not hold an EASA IR (or licence) but I do hold a current ICAO ATPL. Trying to find out whether the exam credits remain valid for 7 years as long as I keep my ICAO ATPL current, or if they expire after 3 years from the date of last exam pass.
Why do you think that you have 7 years to get your initial EASA ATPL? From your post I gather you are in a similar situation to me i.e. not holding any EASA licence/rating.