International recognition
Certificates issued through accredited Member Organisations
At the request of an ILS Full Member Organisation or Federation, ILS issues International Certificates for accredited courses listed in the Equivalency Tables.
01
How do you qualify?
- You must be a member of an ILS Member Organisation or Federation approved as meeting ILS Training Competencies.
- The relevant national certificate must appear in the ILS Equivalency Tables.
- Your national course or refresher course must have taken place within the previous three years.
02
How do you apply?
- Contact the Member Federation where you completed your training and request the ILS Certificate Request Form.
- Complete the form and attach a clear passport-size photograph.
- Your Federation forwards the application to ILS Headquarters.
- ILS processes the request and returns the certificate to your Federation.
Important to know
ILS can convert only accredited and approved national certificates. Applications are accepted through Member Organisations or Federations—not directly from individuals.
An ILS certificate confirms successful completion of training that meets minimum internationally recognised ILS competencies. It is not an employment licence. Certificates are valid for five years and carry a stated expiry date.
ILS educational standards
Download the educational standard for each qualification.
Lifesaving & Lifeguarding
Instructor Qualifications
Specialist Operations
What comes with an ILS International Certificate?
01
Presentation certificate
A coloured presentation certificate with an individual certificate number.
02
Identity card
An identity card carrying the certificate holder’s photograph and number.
03
Coloured badge
An appropriate coloured badge made from embroidered cotton.
04
Coloured pin
An appropriate coloured ILS certificate pin.
Need more information?
Contact ILS Headquarters for help with certificate eligibility, accreditation or the application process.