Introduction

For IT & SaaS companies focused on Data Protection, getting certified under the ISO 27001 Standard is a strategic move. But a common question persists: How much does ISO 27001 cost?

The answer varies based on factors such as business size, infrastructure complexity & how you approach certification. In this article, we unpack the key cost components & help you make informed budgeting decisions.

Understanding ISO 27001 & Its Business Relevance

ISO 27001 is the global Standard for establishing an effective Information Security Management System [ISMS]. It provides a Framework for managing Sensitive Data, reducing Risk & ensuring operational resilience.

But unlike plug-and-play security software, ISO 27001 involves layered investment—consulting, internal efforts & external audits. That’s why the question how much does ISO 27001 cost is better answered in context.

Direct Certification Costs: What You Pay the Certifying Body

One of the first line items in estimating how much ISO 27001 cost is the fee you pay to the certification body. This covers:

• Application & Audit fees
• Document review
• Stage 1 & Stage 2 audits
• Certificate issuance

For small companies, these costs may range from INR  (2) lakhs to INR nine (9) lakhs. Larger companies may see this go up to INR thirteen (13) lakhs.

The price is influenced by Employee count, office locations & the scope of your ISMS.

Consulting Fees & Pre-Certification Costs

Before facing auditors, most businesses seek expert help to interpret ISO 27001 clauses, close Security Gaps & develop documentation. These services often include:

• Risk Assessments
• Gap Analysis
• Policy creation
• Internal audits

For companies with little in-house experience, consulting may cost anywhere between INR five (5) lakhs to INR thirteen (13) lakhs.

This chunk often surprises businesses asking how much does ISO 27001 cost, but it is essential to avoid delays or failures during the Audit.

Internal Resource Allocation & Operational Expenses

While external costs are visible, internal efforts often remain underestimated. Achieving ISO 27001 means:

• Forming a security committee
• Documenting procedures
• Managing internal audits
• Conducting management reviews

The hidden cost here is time. For a lean SaaS startup, this may take several team members working part-time over six (6) to twelve (12) weeks.

For mid-sized firms, resource investment might even include hiring a dedicated Compliance officer.

When considering how much ISO 27001 costs, remember that time is money—and internal labor counts.

Technology & Tooling Costs

Implementing ISO 27001 often highlights technology gaps. Businesses may need to invest in:

• Encryption tools
• Access Control systems
• Vulnerability scanners
• Documentation software

Though not mandatory, these tools help meet control requirements more efficiently. For IT & SaaS companies, this might add INR two (2) lakh to INR thirteen (13) lakhs.

Training & Awareness Programs

Awareness is a key clause in ISO 27001. Training is needed to:

• Educate Employees on ISMS roles
• Ensure secure behaviour
• Pass internal audits

This could include workshops, e-learning modules or certification courses. Depending on your team size, costs could range from INR fifty thousand (50,000) to INR three (3) lakhs.

When calculating how much does ISO 27001 cost, this is a recurring but essential line item.

Maintenance & Surveillance Audit Costs

Once certified, the journey continues. ISO 27001 requires annual surveillance audits & recertification every three (3) years.

Surveillance Audit costs are typically lower—around 40% to 60% of the original Audit cost. These expenses help ensure continual improvement & avoid non-Compliance.

So when asking how much does ISO 27001 cost, include post-certification commitments too.

Factors That Influence Cost Variability

Not all businesses will spend the same. Cost depends on:

• Scope of Certification: Broader scope increases documentation & Audit complexity
• Existing Maturity: Companies already following Best Practices may need fewer change
• Audit Readiness: Delays in documentation or controls can lead to re-Audit costs
• Geography: Certification Bodies charge different fees across countries

This is why there’s no flat answer to how much does ISO 27001 cost—context shapes the price.

Cost-Saving Tips for IT & SaaS Businesses

Here’s how you can reduce your ISO 27001 bill:

• Narrow the initial certification scope
• Use internal champions for documentation
• Choose remote audits when available
• Reuse existing controls & Policies
• Select bundled training or SaaS tools for automation

Strategic planning makes the question how much does ISO 27001 cost less daunting—and the process more manageable.

Takeaways

• What factors contribute towards the cost of ISO 27001 certification?
• Core expenses include certification, consulting, internal resources, training & tools.
• The overall range for IT & SaaS businesses spans INR five (5) lakhs to INR twenty (20) lakhs.
• Costs can be optimised by narrowing scope, leveraging internal teams & choosing the right vendors.

FAQ

Need help? 

Neumetric provides organisations the necessary help to achieve their Cybersecurity, Compliance, Governance, Privacy, Certifications & Pentesting goals. 

Organisations & Businesses, specifically those which provide SaaS & AI Solutions, usually need a Cybersecurity Partner for meeting & maintaining the ongoing Security & Privacy needs & requirements of their Clients & Customers. 

SOC 2, ISO 27001, ISO 42001, NIST, HIPAA, HECVAT, EU GDPR are some of the Frameworks that are served by Fusion – a centralised, automated, AI-enabled SaaS Solution created & managed by Neumetric. 

Reach out to us!