ISO 19011:2026 – Guidelines for Auditing Management Systems

ISO has published a new edition of the ISO 19011:2026 standard – Guidelines for auditing management systems, replacing the previous ISO 19011:2018 version. The standard includes updated guidelines for conducting management system audits, managing audit programmes, and auditor competence.

The new edition places even greater emphasis on:

• remote and hybrid audits,
• risk-based auditing,
• the use of digital technologies,
• audit effectiveness and continual improvement of organizations.

ISO 19011:2026 is highly relevant for organizations implementing standards such as:

• ISO 9001,
• ISO 14001,
• ISO/IEC 27001,
• ISO 45001,
• ISO 22000.

The standard will influence the way internal audits, supplier audits, and certification body activities are conducted worldwide.

FAQ – ISO 19011:2026

What is ISO 19011:2026?

ISO 19011:2026 is an international standard providing guidelines for auditing management systems. It describes the principles of auditing, management of audit programmes, and auditor competence for systems such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO/IEC 27001, and ISO 45001.

Is ISO 19011 a certifiable standard?

No. ISO 19011 is not a certifiable standard. Organizations do not obtain certification against ISO 19011. The standard serves as a set of guidelines and best practices for conducting management system audits.

What has changed in ISO 19011:2026?

The new edition of ISO 19011:2026 expands guidance related to:

• remote and hybrid audits,
• the use of digital technologies during audits,
• risk-based auditing,
• audit effectiveness,
• auditor competence,
• continual improvement through audits.

Who is ISO 19011 intended for?

ISO 19011 is important for:

• internal auditors,
• certification bodies,
• ISO consultants,
• management system representatives,
• organizations with certified management systems,
• companies providing auditor training services.

Which standards does ISO 19011 support?

ISO 19011 supports auditing of systems compliant with:

• ISO 9001,
• ISO 14001,
• ISO/IEC 27001,
• ISO 45001,
• ISO 22000,
• ISO 50001,

as well as other management system standards.

Does ISO 19011 apply to internal audits?

Yes. ISO 19011 is one of the key standards used for planning and conducting internal management system audits.

Does ISO 19011 cover remote audits?

Yes. The new ISO 19011:2026 edition places stronger emphasis on remote and hybrid audits, as well as the use of digital tools during auditing activities.

Why is ISO 19011 important for organizations?

The standard helps organizations conduct audits in a structured, effective, and internationally recognized manner. It supports continual improvement of management systems and helps organizations prepare for certification body audits.

Should internal auditors know ISO 19011?

Yes. ISO 19011 is a fundamental standard for both internal and external auditors. It includes guidance on audit planning, conducting audit interviews, collecting audit evidence, and evaluating management system effectiveness.

Is ISO 19011 relevant to ISO 9001?

Yes. ISO 19011 is widely used for auditing quality management systems compliant with ISO 9001. It helps organizations effectively plan and perform quality audits.

What are the benefits of using ISO 19011?

The main benefits include:

• standardized auditing processes,
• improved audit programme management,
• development of auditor competence,
• more effective internal audits,
• enhanced organizational credibility,
• support for continual improvement of management systems.

Does ISO 19011 affect certification bodies?

Yes. ISO 19011 has a significant impact on how certification bodies conduct audits and evaluate management systems during certification and surveillance activities.

Where can I find ISO certification bodies?

At certiget.pl and certiget.eu, you can find a detailed directory of management system certification bodies from around the world, with the ability to compare offers and search by ISO standard.