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International Mediation Institute (IMI) Certification through FMC

International Mediation Institute (IMI) Certification through FMC

Elevating Canadian mediators on the global stage

 

Family Mediation Canada (FMC) is proud to be recognized by the International Mediation Institute (IMI) as an official Qualifying Assessment Program (QAP). We are proud that FMC is the only QAP focused exclusively on family mediation.  This designation affirms FMC’s commitment to the highest standards in family mediation and ensures that FMC Advanced Certified mediators can pursue internationally recognized IMI certification directly through FMC. 

What is the International Mediation Institute?

The International Mediation Institute was established in 2007 as a global, independent, non-profit public initiative dedicated to advancing quality, transparency, and professionalism in mediation worldwide.  IMI develops rigorous internationally applicable competency-based criteria for mediators and a credentialing framework that recognises demonstrated skills, ethical practice, and a commitment to ongoing professional development. 

With IMI’s presence in more than 40 countries, the credential is recognized across justice systems, professional networks, and cross-border mediation initiatives.

FMC as a Qualifying Assessment Program (QAP)

IMI evaluates organizations worldwide to determine which are qualified to assess mediators against IMI’s international competency standards. FMC’s Advanced Certification pathway has been formally approved as meeting these requirements.

This means:

  • FMC has demonstrated a robust, competency-based assessment process
  • FMC’s Advanced Certified mediators meet IMI’s core standards
  • FMC is authorized to submit successfully assessed candidates to IMI for certification 
  • FMC members do not need to seek assessment from an external body — FMC provides the full pathway

 

Why pursue IMI Certification through FMC?

IMI certification offers significant value to Canadian mediators, particularly those working across jurisdictions, in court-connected services, or within multidisciplinary practices.

Benefits include:

1. Global Recognition

IMI certification positions FMC mediators among an international community of qualified professionals. It can support work involving cross-border families, online mediation, and national/international partnerships.

2. Enhanced Professional Credibility

The IMI credential signals rigorous training, verified competence, and adherence to global best practices – reinforcing the value of FMC’s Advanced Certification.

3. Increased Visibility

IMI-Certified Mediators are listed in a global searchable directory used by lawyers, courts, workplaces, and families seeking skilled mediators.

4. Streamlined Pathway through FMC

As an IMI-approved QAP, FMC can verify your Advanced Certification, competency assessments, and professional standing – making the application process straightforward and accessible for FMC members.

5. Alignment with FMC’s Commitment to Excellence

IMI certification reflects FMC’s vision for a strong, connected, and professional family mediation sector in Canada. It supports mediators who want to demonstrate leadership, strengthen their practice, and contribute to the growth of high-quality family mediation nationwide.

 

How to Pursue IMI Certification Through FMC

FMC has developed a clear and accessible process for those wishing to pursue IMI certification. 

  1. Ensure that pre-requisites have been met
  • FMC membership is up to date
  • FMC Advanced Certification is up to date
  1. Submit Required Documentation

Applicants will submit a brief online form containing:    

  1. Pay Application Fee

A one-time processing fee of $100 CAD will be required to cover FMC’s administrative costs. 

 

4. FMC Review and Endorsement

FMC will review each submission to ensure it meets IMI’s requirements. During this stage, FMC may contact applicants for clarification or additional materials. 

Estimated timeline: 2 – 4 weeks from the date of submission.

 

5. IMI Registration and Issuance of Credential

Once FMC endorses the application, the required documentation will be forwarded to IMI. Applicants will then:

  • Receive instructions directly from IMI
  • Pay the IMI Certified annual subscription fee (€165)
  • Be added to the IMI global directory upon approval by IMI

Estimated timeline: IMI typically processes applications within 2–3 weeks.

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