Hermitage of Management & Standards Limited

ISO Consultancy Company In BD

An image depicting ISO certification in banks in BD, showing an ISO certificate with a checkmark, a bank building, and a shield with a lock symbolizing security.

ISO Certification for Bank in Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s banking sector is a key component of the country’s economy, supporting both financial stability and growth. Banks in Bangladesh are under increasing pressure to improve operational efficiency, improve security frameworks, and develop client trust in the rapidly evolving financial landscape.

ISO certification for banking in Bangladesh provides a clear path for financial institutions intending to increase client trust, optimize operations, and adhere to international standards. A dedication to efficiency, security, and quality is demonstrated by this accreditation, which is essential for addressing an ever-changing financial environment.

As of early 2025, Bangladeshi banks must prioritize standardized risk management and data protection due to their growing reliance on digital platforms.

What is ISO Certification for Banking Sector?

In banking operations, ISO certification is a systematic approach to applying globally accepted standards that control information security, risk management, quality management, and business continuity. These credentials serve as proof of a bank’s dedication to upholding strict operating standards, safeguarding client information, and delivering consistent service.

ISO certification offers Bangladeshi banks an organized strategy to improve internal control systems, optimize workflows, and create strong governance structures, etc. Payment cards, securities, interactions, identity, and risk management are just a few of the topics covered by ISO standards.

Financial institutions that adopt these standards report increased trust among customers, less risk exposure, and more powerful operational efficiency.

In addition to fulfilling regulatory compliance requirements set forth by Bangladesh Bank and other regulatory bodies, the ISO certification process confirms that a bank’s management systems meet international standards. It guarantees consistent quality in banking services.

Why Banks in Bangladesh Need ISO Certification?

Due to several interrelated causes that are changing the banking sector, there is a pressing requirement for ISO certification for banking in Bangladesh. 

A number of interrelated issues that are changing the financial services industry have made ISO certification for banking in Bangladesh more urgent. Banks have to operate in a more complicated environment where client expectations, advancements in technology, and regulatory compliance require structured approaches to risk management and operational excellence.

  • Rising regulatory requirements from the Bangladesh Bank: ISO certification assists banks in satisfying these dynamic regulatory requirements as the central bank imposes stricter rules on risk management, cybersecurity, and service quality.
  • Growing focus on digital banking, data security, and customer trust: Solid information security and system integrity are more important as a result of the transition to digital services. Customers feel confident, with certifications such as ISO 27001, that the highest level of security is being used while managing their data.
  • Enhancing operational resilience and business continuity: Banks are empowered by ISO standards like ISO 22301 to anticipate and recover from operational disruptions, maintaining continuous services in times of emergency.
  • Meeting global standards for international partnerships: ISO certification acts as evidence of compliance with globally recognized requirements and best practices. This is important for banks wishing to work with foreign partners or expand their global footprint.

Popular ISO Standards for Banks in Bangladesh

The banking industry in Bangladesh benefits significantly from some important ISO standards. A bank’s operations can be transformed by implementing these, becoming more customer-focused, secure, and efficient.

1. ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management in Banking

A comprehensive quality management framework with a focus on optimization of processes, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement is established by ISO 9001:2015. Banks that use this standard provide structured approaches to customer relationship management, complaint resolution, and service delivery.

The standard makes sure that quality goals are in line with strategic business objectives by highlighting risk-based thinking and leadership involvement.

2. ISO/IEC 27001:2022 – Information Security Management

For financial institutions that handle sensitive customer data and transactions, information security management has become important. Banks that implement ISO 27001 claim that their capacity to identify and address cyberthreats has improved by up to 70%.

Banking Sector ISO 27001 | SMS.online. This standard offers an orderly manner to manage the safety of client data, put access controls in place, and create incident response protocols. Risk controls, vulnerability assessments, and security awareness training initiatives are all covered under the framework.

3. ISO 31000 – Risk Management Framework

Effective banking practices are built on risk management, and ISO 31000 gives an orderly approach to recognize, evaluate, and minimize different types of risk. This framework helps banks create risk appetite statements, put monitoring systems in place, and set up mechanisms for reporting risk incidents. The standard also facilitates decision-making at all organizational levels and complies with regulatory risk management parameters.

4. ISO 22301:2019 – Business Continuity Management

Planning for business continuity ensures that banks can continue essential operations in the event of system failures, disruptions, or catastrophic events. In times of crisis, ISO 22301 assists financial institutions with developing alternative processing capabilities, creating thorough recovery plans, and ensuring system availability.

The standard places a strong emphasis on resource allocation, stakeholder communication, and testing methods to verify continuity plans.

ISO Certification Process for Banks in Bangladesh

ISO certification requires an orderly procedure. The overall process consists of these key steps:

Step 1: Gap Analysis of Banking Operations

The first step in the process is to thoroughly evaluate your bank’s current procedures and systems in comparison to the requirements of the chosen ISO standard or standards. This gap analysis finds any missing factors, areas that require improvement, and areas that conform.

Step 2: System Implementation & Process Optimization

Your bank will develop and put into practice the required policies, processes, and controls based on the gap analysis. This often means simplifying current procedures to improve efficiency and satisfy standards. For example, this can entail standardizing customer service procedures for ISO 9001 or improving information security standards for ISO 27001.

Step 3: Documentation & Awareness Training

It is necessary that the updated or new systems have comprehensive documentation. Manuals, methods, work instructions, and records are all included in this. To make sure that all relevant employees are aware of their roles and responsibilities within the ISO framework, awareness training is equally important.

Step 4: Internal Audits & Corrective Actions

Your bank must perform internal audits before the external audit. These audits examine how well the system is working and whether it complies with the ISO requirements. Corrective measures are taken to resolve any non-conformities that are found. For banking audits and compliance, this step is essential.

Step 5: External Certification Audit

To verify compliance with ISO standards, an independent certification body performs formal evaluations. Employee interviews, process observations, and documentation inspection are all part of the audit process. Your bank obtains the ISO accreditation after passing the evaluation.

Step 6: Surveillance and Annual Recertification

ISO certification is a continuous process. Your bank will go through regular surveillance audits (often once a year) to maintain accreditation, which will make sure the system is still efficient and compliant. Usually, every three years, an extensive recertification audit is necessary. This encourages constant growth.

Benefits of ISO Certification for Bangladeshi Banks

There are many benefits to pursuing ISO certification for banks in Bangladesh, which positions banks for long-term success and raises stakeholder trust.

  1. Align with Bangladesh Bank and global compliance: By ensuring that banks adhere to both international and local regulatory standards, ISO certification facilitates better operations and global partnerships.
  2. Mitigate cyber threats and fraud: By putting standards like ISO 27001 into practice, cybersecurity measures are enhanced, and banks are protected from fraud and data breaches.
  3. Improve customer experience and trust: A bank’s commitment to quality and security is demonstrated by its adherence to ISO standards, which builds customer trust and loyalty.
  4. Gain a competitive advantage in fintech partnerships: Banks with ISO certification work well with fintech startups because certifications show reliability and adherence to best practices.

Why Choose HMS Universal for Banking ISO Certification in Bangladesh?

HMS Universal is one of Bangladesh’s leading ISO consultancy companies and offers specialized solutions for the banking sector. HMS Universal has more than nine years of expertise and has successfully guided multiple banks, NBFCs, and MFIs through the ISO certification process.

Here are some key advantages of choosing us:

  • 9+ years of experience with banks, NBFCs, and MFIs
  • Certified ISO consultants in Dhaka and nationwide
  • Tailored ISO implementation packages for banks
  • Proven track record with financial institutions in Bangladesh
  • End-to-end premium support from assessment to certification

For more information, please visit our website.

Contact HMS Universal: Your ISO Partner for Banks in Bangladesh

Are you ready to use ISO certification to improve the operational excellence of your bank? For assistance in understanding the criteria for accreditation and designing implementation plans tailored to your company’s requirements, HMS Universal provides free consultancy services.

Book a FREE ISO consultation for your bank!

Conclusion

An important step toward improved security, operational excellence, and regulatory compliance is ISO certification for Bangladeshi banks. Banks may increase their competitive edge in the banking sector, build trust with customers, and strengthen their resilience by implementing standards like ISO 9001, ISO 27001, ISO 22301, and ISO 31000.

Working with HM Universal smooth certification process is backed up with knowledge, customized solutions, and dedicated assistance.

FAQs: ISO in Banking in Bangladesh

1. What is the best ISO certification for banks in Bangladesh?

ISO 27001 is the best ISO certification for banks in Bangladesh, focusing on information security.

2. How long does it take to get ISO certified in banking?

It generally takes 4-6 months to get ISO certified in the banking sector.

3. Is ISO 27001 mandatory for banks in Bangladesh?

Although it is not required by law, ISO 27001 is highly recommended in order to improve cybersecurity and meet to Bangladesh Bank’s ICT security policy.

4. How much does ISO certification cost for financial institutions?

The cost of ISO certification for a financial institution through a consultant like HMS Universal is not a fixed amount. While HMS Universal states a general range of 200K to 350K BDT per annum for ISO certificates. To get an accurate quote, financial institutions should contact HMS Universal directly to discuss their specific requirements. This will allow for a tailored assessment and cost estimation.

5. Does HMS Universal serve banks across all regions in Bangladesh?

Yes, HMS Universal provides ISO certification services nationwide.