Skip to content

ISO 13485:2016 · Medical Devices Quality Management System

ISO 13485 Certification Medical Devices Quality Management System

ISO 13485:2016 defines quality management requirements for organizations involved in any stage of the medical device life cycle — design, development, production, storage, distribution, installation, servicing and related support services.

Medical device equipment and monitoring systems in a clinical setting
Standard
ISO 13485:2016
Typical timeline
30–90 days
Outcome
Accredited certificate
Delivery
Remote & on-site, worldwide

In general

The regulatory foundation for medical devices

ISO 13485 aligns your processes with international regulatory expectations and places rigorous risk management across the product life cycle — protecting patients and reducing the likelihood of costly recalls.

It is the QMS foundation for MDSAP, a core expectation under EU MDR, and since February 2026 the US FDA’s Quality Management System Regulation (QMSR, 21 CFR Part 820) incorporates ISO 13485 by reference.

Benefits

Benefits of ISO 13485 certification

  • Faster access to global markets through regulatory alignment
  • Efficient cycle times and reduced waste
  • Greater trust from distributors, hospitals and end users
  • Stronger supply-chain transparency and supplier control
  • A culture of continual improvement that adapts to new technology and clinical demands

How it works

Your path to ISO 13485 certification

  1. 01Service agreementThe engagement begins with a signed agreement and a dedicated project team.
  2. 02Gap analysisWe assess your current practices against ISO 13485:2016 and prepare a detailed action plan.
  3. 03Documentation and implementationWe develop procedures and records, train your team and embed the system into daily operations.
  4. 04Internal auditA comprehensive internal audit confirms readiness and resolves any nonconformities.
  5. 05Certification auditAn accredited certification body audits and issues your verifiable certificate.

How we can help

ISO 13485 service packages

  • A01DocumentationISO 13485:2016 documentation — ready-made templates or fully customized to how your organization actually works.
  • B02Implementation & consultationHands-on ISO 13485:2016 implementation, training and expert consultation until the system runs on its own.
  • C03Internal audit & gap analysisA full internal audit against ISO 13485:2016 with a gap report and corrective-action plan before the external audit.
  • D04Certification auditWe arrange an independent audit through a reputable, accredited certification body and support you through Stage 1 and Stage 2.
  • E05Full packageEverything above end-to-end — documents, implementation plan, training, internal audit and your final ISO 13485:2016 certificate.

FAQ

ISO 13485 frequently asked questions

01How long does ISO 13485 certification take?

Most organizations complete ISO 13485:2016 certification in 30–90 days with Lisora's fast-track approach. The exact timeline depends on your size, number of sites, process complexity and how much of the system already exists.

02How long is an ISO 13485 certificate valid?

An accredited ISO 13485 certificate is valid for three years, with annual surveillance audits to confirm the management system is maintained and improving. A recertification audit is carried out before the third anniversary.

03Does ISO 13485 help with FDA compliance?

Yes. The FDA’s QMSR, effective 2 February 2026, incorporates ISO 13485:2016 by reference into 21 CFR Part 820. An ISO 13485 system is therefore the most direct path to US quality-system compliance, alongside FDA-specific requirements.

Free consultation

Request a ISO 13485 consultation.

Share a few details and one of our lead auditors will respond within 24 hours with recommended next steps and a fixed-price proposal.

We respond within one business day. Your information is kept strictly confidential.