Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated (Global ACI) has published Global ACI-TECH-3-TR 2029-09-30 (M) Transition Requirements for ISO 9001:2026, providing accreditation bodies and accredited certification bodies with a timeline for moving from ISO 9001:2015, including Amendment 1:2024, to the revised standard.

ISO 9001 is the world’s most widely used quality management system standard. It provides organisations with a framework for consistently meeting customer and applicable requirements, improving processes and strengthening overall performance. ISO 9001:2026 was published on 16 September 2026.

What is changing in ISO 9001:2026?

The 2026 revision builds on the established ISO 9001 framework, with updates intended to improve clarity and usability.

The update includes clearer wording, a stronger focus on leadership, quality culture and accountability, and greater clarity around risks and opportunities. The revised edition also introduces a new Annex A to clarify key terms and the intent of requirements, while maintaining closer alignment with other ISO management system standards.

Preparing for the transition

Global ACI has established a three-year transition period.

Accreditation bodies are to be ready to assess against and support ISO 9001:2026 as soon as possible, and no later than 31 March 2027.

Accredited certification bodies are required to submit their transition declaration and supporting information by 30 June 2027. Accreditation body transition decisions are to be completed by 30 September 2027.

From 31 March 2028, new and initial accredited certifications may only be issued to ISO 9001:2026.

Organisations already certified to ISO 9001:2015 will have until 30 September 2029 to complete their transition. This may take place during a scheduled surveillance or recertification audit, or through a separate transition audit.

Supporting a consistent global transition

Global ACI transition requirements are mandatory for Global ACI Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MRA) accreditation body signatories and their accredited certification bodies operating within the applicable scope.

With more than one million accredited ISO 9001 certificates, the transition will require coordination across the accreditation and certification community. Global ACI-TECH-3-TR 2029-09-30 (M) establishes a common timeframe for certification bodies and certified organisations to prepare for and complete the move to the revised standard.

Global ACI-TECH-3-TR 2029-09-30 (M) is available here.