The 2026 update to ISO 9001

The update to the ISO 9001 standard – one of the most important international standards for quality management systems – scheduled for 2026, is already attracting considerable interest from organisations around the world.

The fifth edition of the standard was published in 2015. To ensure it remains up to date and aligned with changing realities, the ISO regularly reviews its standards. Following extensive global consultations carried out in 2023, a consensus was reached that an update to ISO 9001 is necessary. The aim is to enhance the value of the standard and better align it with the needs of users and their business environment.

The new version of the ISO 9001 standard has been designed to address current business challenges and the changing environment in which organisations operate. It will replace the current ISO 9001:2015 standard in September 2026. This means that certified companies will have to adapt their quality management systems to the new requirements within a specified timeframe in order to maintain compliance and the continuity of their certification. Organisations will have three years to adapt their systems, meaning the practical transition deadline is September 2029. Certificates issued under ISO 9001:2015 remain valid during the transition period.

Why is this change so significant?

ISO 9001 is a standard used in almost every sector – from manufacturing to services. Much has changed since the publication of the last version. Rapid technological development, the digitalisation of processes, automation and the growing importance of data mean that organisations must manage quality even more effectively and respond more quickly to changing market conditions.

The update to the standard is designed to help companies navigate this reality more effectively. If you are just considering implementing a quality management system, you may also wish to read the article explaining what ISO 9001 certification is and what benefits it offers a business.

An opportunity for organisations

The update to ISO 9001:2026 is not merely an obligation to comply with new requirements. Above all, it is a real opportunity for organisational development.

Companies that prepare for the changes well in advance can:

• streamline their processes,
• increase operational efficiency,
• make better use of data and technology,
• build a sustainable competitive advantage.

That is why it is worth taking a look at your current quality management system today and starting to plan the necessary adjustments. Organisations preparing for certification or adapting their systems to new requirements can benefit from the comprehensive support in implementing ISO 9001 offered by our consultants.