The ILS is recognised by:
The International Olympic Committee (IOC)
The ILS received recognition, pursuant to rule 29 of the Olympic Charter, on the occasion of the 105th session of the International Olympic Committee in Atlanta from 15th to 18th July 1996.
The World Health Organisation (WHO)
The ILS is recognised by the WHO as an International Non-Government Organisation.
Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF)
- The ILS is a Full Member with voting rights in the GAISF. GAISF regroups all International Sports Federations world wide.
- The Association of IOC Recognised International Sports Federations (ARISF)
- The ILS is a Full Member with voting rights in the ARISF. The ARISF regoups all Sports Federations who are recognised by the IOC.
- The International World Games Association (IWGA)
- The ILS is a Full Member with voting rights in the IWGA. Lifesaving Sport is on the programme of the World Games since 1985. The World Games are a multi-sport Games from sports or events that are not included in the programme of the Summer of Winter Olympic Games.
- The International Military Sports Council (CISM)
- The ILS is recognised by the International Military Sports Council (CISM) and Lifesaving Sport is part of the programme of Military World Championships. Lifesaving sport is also included in the Military World Games.
- The International Masters Games Association (IMGA)
- The ILS is member of the International Masters Games Association (IMGA) and Lifesaving Sport is part of the programme of the World Masters Games.