QIR (Qualified Integrator or Reseller)

A QIR, or Qualified Integrator or Reseller, refers to a professional or an organization that has been specifically trained and certified by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) to install, configure, and/or support payment systems to ensure they meet PCI security standards. The QIR certification is part of a broader initiative to enhance payment security and reduce payment data breaches, especially in environments where payment systems are deployed and managed by third-party service providers.

The QIR Program aims to ensure that these integrators and resellers have a deep understanding of PCI SSC security standards, which include:

QIRs are typically employed by businesses that do not have in-house expertise in secure payment system installation and management. By utilizing a QIR, businesses can enhance their security posture and ensure compliance with PCI standards, which is critical for protecting customer payment information.

Businesses are encouraged to consult the QIR Program Guide available on the PCI SSC website for detailed information about the qualifications, the scope of work covered by QIRs, and how to select a reputable QIR. This guide provides essential criteria and processes associated with the QIR program, helping merchants make informed decisions when choosing partners to handle their payment infrastructure.