ISO 9001:2026 is the sixth edition of the quality management systems standard. The International Organization for Standardization published it on 16 September 2026, replacing ISO 9001:2015. Certex helps organisations in the Middle East, plan their transition from ISO 9001:2015.
What changed in the 2026 edition
According to ISO, the revision builds on the established ISO 9001 framework rather than replacing it. ISO and ISO/TC 176 describe the updates as targeted changes that improve clarity and usability, including:
- A stronger focus on leadership, quality culture, ethical behaviour and accountability
- Greater clarity on the distinction between risks and opportunities, so organisations can act on both
- A new Annex A to clarify key terms and the intent of the requirements
- Adoption of the latest Harmonized Structure, which makes it easier to integrate ISO 9001 with other ISO management system standards
ISO also notes that the edition carries forward the consideration of climate change introduced into ISO 9001:2015 through the 2024 amendment. For the official wording, see ISO 9001:2026 on iso.org and ISO’s announcement of 16 September 2026.
Transition from ISO 9001:2015
ISO states that certified organisations will have to transition to the new edition within the time frame set by their certification cycle, and should contact their certification body. ISO/TC 176/SC 2 has published more specific transition guidance:
- Accreditation bodies are to be ready to assess ISO 9001:2026 no later than 31 March 2027
- Accredited certification bodies are 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 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
Source: ISO/TC 176/SC 2 news, 28 September 2026.
How Certex can help
Certex International helps organisations understand the revised standard, review their current quality management system, and prepare for a transition audit with their chosen accredited certification body. We do not issue ISO certificates; we design and support the system you will present at audit.
If you are starting a new ISO 9001 system, the existing ISO 9001 implementation page explains our usual path from gap assessment to certification support, now against the 2026 edition.