ISO 13611 Certification

Breaking Language Barriers in Public Services and Social Inclusion

ISO 13611:2014 provides internationally recognized guidelines for community interpreting, supporting effective communication between public service providers and individuals with limited proficiency in the official language(s). This includes healthcare, education, housing, social services, immigration, and law enforcement settings.

Certification to ISO 13611 demonstrates that your interpreters uphold professional standards, cultural sensitivity, and ethical practices—ensuring fair access for all.

What Is ISO 13611?

ISO 13611 sets forth guidelines—not strict requirements—for delivering interpreting services in community-based environments. It covers:

• Interpreting techniques and modes (consecutive, dialogue, relay, etc.)
• Cultural and linguistic mediation
• Interpreter role boundaries
• Codes of ethics and confidentiality
• Working conditions, preparation, and client interaction

It is suitable for both freelance interpreters and organizations that provide interpreting in public service settings.

Benefits of ISO 13611 Certification

• Improve Public Access – Help individuals understand and use public services
• Support Multicultural Communities – Foster equity, trust, and inclusion
• Meet Local & Government Requirements – Enhance your eligibility for public contracts
• Increase Service Consistency – Standardize interpreter roles and behaviors
• Uphold Confidentiality & Professionalism – Build long-term trust with institutions and clients

Who Should Be Certified?

• Community interpreting agencies
• Non-profit and NGO language support teams
• Freelance interpreters serving public services
• Local and regional government programs
• Hospitals, schools, shelters, and public health units
• Immigration offices and refugee support organizations

Requirements for Certification

While ISO 13611 provides guidelines, USQC helps you formalize and align your interpreting services to meet the following best practices:

• Use of interpreters trained in community-based terminology and scenarios
• Clearly defined ethical standards, impartiality, and confidentiality policies
• Procedures for assignment, preparation, and cultural context adaptation
• Documentation of interpreter qualifications and community-specific knowledge
• Feedback and complaint handling procedures

USQC’s 3-Step Certification Process

Gap Assessment
We assess how closely your operations align with ISO 13611 guidance and identify areas for improvement.

Implementation Support
We help establish or enhance your interpreter SOPs, code of ethics, and service delivery protocols.

Audit & Certification
A USQC audit confirms conformance with ISO 13611 principles. You’ll then receive your formal certificate of compliance.

Remote and onsite audits available. Global and multilingual support included.

Why Choose USQC for ISO 13611 Certification?

• Deep experience in interpreting service certification
• Culturally competent, multilingual audit team
• Practical implementation support
• Bundled certification options (ISO 18841, 21998, 17100, 9001)
• Fast, reliable, and globally recognized certification