The new edition of ISO 9001, the world’s most widely used quality management standard, is in its final development stage (FDIS) and is expected to be published in September 2026. It will replace ISO 9001:2015. The anticipated changes refine and clarify existing requirements without redesigning the standard. Getting ahead of it lets you plan an orderly transition — or get certified now under the current edition, knowing your certificate will transition to the new version.
When will it be published, and what will the transition period be?
- Current status: FDIS (final draft approved by member country vote, December 2025).
- Expected publication: September 16, 2026 (ISO’s estimated date; subject to official confirmation).
- Current edition until then: ISO 9001:2015 remains the certifiable version.
- Expected transition period: approximately 3 years from publication (the exact deadline will be confirmed by IAF).
Important: until official publication, certification is carried out against ISO 9001:2015. It is not possible to certify against an edition that has not yet been published.
What is expected to change from 2015 to 2026?
Based on the final draft, the anticipated changes point to:
- Climate change fully integrated. The 2024 climate action amendment (clauses 4.1 and 4.2) becomes permanently incorporated.
- Updated Harmonized Structure. Terminology and structure aligned with the current version of ISO’s Harmonized Structure, for greater consistency across standards.
- Focus on measurable results. Greater emphasis on the management system delivering demonstrable results, not just formal compliance.
- More visible, auditable leadership. Reinforced expectation of top management involvement.
- Better-structured risks, opportunities, and performance. Requirements organized to be more clearly evidenced.
- External factors. More systematic consideration of the operating environment, including supply chains and a changing context.
The final changes will be confirmed once the standard is published. This page will be updated at that time.
What should you do now?
If your organization is not yet certified: Do not wait for 2026. Get certified now under ISO 9001:2015: you get the benefits of certification right away, and your system will transition to the 2026 edition within the expected period, in an orderly way. Starting today is the most efficient option.
If you are already certified to ISO 9001:2015:
- Learn about the anticipated changes ahead of time.
- No immediate action is required: your certificate remains valid throughout the transition period.
- Plan to fold the transition into a future surveillance or recertification cycle once the standard is published.
If you want to stay informed: Request information and we will notify you when the 2026 edition is officially published and when transfer/transition becomes available.
How we support you
As a conformity assessment body, our role is independent and evidence-based:
- Certification under the current edition (ISO 9001:2015), with international backing and bilingual service.
- Information on the anticipated changes in the 2026 edition and on the transition process.
- Training to prepare your team for the new edition.
Impartiality note: to preserve the independence of the certification decision, we do not design or implement the management system being assessed. We explain the requirements and assess conformity.
Frequently asked questions
When will ISO 9001:2026 be published?
Publication is expected in September 2026. The standard is currently at the FDIS stage (final draft approved). ISO will confirm the exact date.
Can I get certified to ISO 9001:2026 already?
Not until it is published. Until then, certification is carried out under ISO 9001:2015, which will transition to the 2026 edition within the expected period.
Should I wait until 2026 to get certified?
No. Getting certified now under 2015 gives you the benefits immediately, and your certificate will transition in an orderly way to the new edition. Waiting only delays the value.
Will the changes be significant?
Based on the final draft, no: they refine and clarify existing requirements and align the standard with the Harmonized Structure. The system is not being redesigned.
How long will the transition period last?
A period of approximately three years from publication is expected; the exact deadline will be confirmed by IAF.
Get ready for ISO 9001:2026 — or take the first step today
Get certified under the current edition with international backing, or request information and we will let you know when the 2026 edition is available.