This blog post was updated June 2025.
Key Takeaways
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ISO 27001 is for organizations, not individuals—you can’t get “ISO 27001 certified” as a person.
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Individuals can show expertise through lead implementer or auditor courses (e.g., ISO 27001 Lead Implementer, Lead Auditor).
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Alternative individual certifications like CompTIA or CISSP are more appropriate for personal credentials.
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Organization certification requires building and documenting an Information Security Management System (ISMS), conducting risk assessments, defining policies, and training employees.
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Timeline and cost vary—typically 3–12 months, depending on your company’s size and state of readiness.
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SaaS companies are often tasked with managing sensitive client data. Your ability to do that effectively can impact whether a lead hires you. That’s why organizations often pursue ISO 27001 certification as part of compliance for SaaS.
ISO 27001 is an internationally recognized standard that shows the holder is following best practices for information security. SaaS companies use it to market themselves as a safe partner for potential clients.
But as you consider the ISO 27001 certification cost, you may wonder, can an individual get ISO 27001 certified?
Can an Individual Be ISO 27001 Certified?
No, there’s no ISO 27001 certification for individuals because it only applies to information security management systems. However, there are different courses a person can take to demonstrate their ISO 27001 skill set.
For example, you could take an ISO 27001 lead implementer course to show you have the skills to help companies earn this certification. Doing so could help you find a new job or get a raise.
If you want to prove your cybersecurity expertise, look into alternatives to ISO 27001. For instance, CompTIA and CISSP are two certifications for individuals that can advance a cybersecurity career.
Can an Individual Get ISO 27001 Certified Online?
No, the ISO 27001 certification doesn’t apply to individuals. But there are various classes you can take online to prove your skill set in this area.
That answer changes a bit if you have a one-person business. For example, maybe you’re building a SaaS startup and hoping to get ISO 27001 certified without any other employees.
That scenario works. The certification body would look at your company’s information security management systems just like it would for a larger business. If you meet all the criteria, your startup can earn ISO 27001 certification — but still not you as an individual.
How Do I Get My Company ISO 27001 Certified?
As you might expect, the ISO 27001 certification requirements are very detailed. You essentially have to prove that your organization has:
- Implemented an information security management system
- Conducted a thorough risk assessment of organizational assets
- Developed security policies and procedures that meet best practice standards
- Trained employees on these standards
You also need documentation for each of these steps. When you try to get ISO 27001 certified, the auditor will need it to verify you’ve done all the work you say you have.
Although there are only four steps here, these only scratch the surface of what’s required. That’s why many companies choose to work with cybersecurity professionals while seeking this certification.
A team of compliance experts can audit your business and help to fill in any security gaps that could prevent it from earning ISO 27001 certification. Sure, you can do it on your own. But working with experts can save you a lot of time.
How to Get an ISO 27001 Certification
Many different organizations can grant ISO 27001 certification. You just need to make sure that you use an accredited certification body. Popular options include:
- Deloitte
- KPMG
- Ernst & Young
- IBM Security
If you’re concerned about ISO 27001 cost, shop around a bit. Some groups may charge more than others.
You also may need to spend money preparing to earn ISO 27001. For example, if your current processes aren’t up to best-practice standards, you may need to conduct a gap analysis or invest in new technologies.
How Long Does It Take to Get ISO 27001 Certified?
It typically takes between three and 12 months to earn an ISO 27001 certification. The exact amount of time depends on the size of your business and its current level of audit readiness.
Big businesses tend to use more complex processes because of the large amounts of sensitive data they hold. That makes certification a lengthier process. But if you’re a small business with relatively simple controls, you may be able to earn ISO 27001 in closer to three months.
Start Your ISO 27001 Journey With Our Compliance Services
The most challenging part of ISO 27001 certification is getting your organization ready for the auditing process. You should know that you’re very likely to qualify for the certification before you pay someone to analyze your processes.
That’s where Trava Security comes in. We offer SaaS compliance services that will get you ready for ISO 27001 certification, full stop. We have a 100% success rate and can handle all aspects of ISO 27001 preparation.
Take a look at our compliance services page for more information.
FAQ
Can individuals ever receive “ISO 27001 certification”?
A: No. ISO 27001 applies exclusively to ISMS at the organizational level—individuals can’t earn the certification themselves.
How can individuals demonstrate ISO 27001 expertise?
A: You can take professionally recognized courses like ISO 27001 Lead Implementer or Lead Auditor. These include training and exams, but typically require practical experience to be recognized.
What’s the difference between Lead Implementer and Lead Auditor certifications?
A: Lead Implementer focuses on designing, implementing, and managing ISO 27001 ISMS.
Lead Auditor is tailored for auditing ISO 27001 ISMS setups and ensuring compliance.
Are there other certifications better suited for individuals?
A: Yes—credentials like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are designed specifically for individuals and widely respected in cybersecurity careers.
How does a company earn ISO 27001 certification?
A: Organizations must:
- Build an ISMS
- Conduct risk assessments
- Write and enforce security policies
- Train staff
- Undergo external audit by an accredited body
What is the typical timeframe and cost?
A: Certification often takes 3–12 months, depending on business size and preparation level. Costs fluctuate based on readiness and auditor rates, so it’s wise to compare quotes.