With just one month remaining until the June 28, 2025 deadline, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) is about to become enforceable across the EU.
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If your business serves European customers—regardless of where you’re based—this is your final opportunity to ensure your digital products and services are accessible to all users.
What’s Changing?
The EAA, adopted in 2019, mandates that a broad range of digital products and services must be accessible to people with disabilities.
This includes websites, mobile apps, e-commerce platforms, digital banking, e-books, and self-service terminals like ATMs and ticket machines.
The legislation applies to both EU-based and international businesses offering services within the EU.
The only exemption is for micro-enterprises—companies with fewer than 10 employees and annual turnover or balance sheet totals below €2 million.
Key Deadlines
-
June 28, 2025:
All new products and services entering the EU market must comply with EAA standards. -
June 28, 2030:
Existing products and services already on the market before June 2025 must comply by this date or upon their next significant update, whichever comes first.
Required Accessibility Standards
The EAA is aligned with existing frameworks and specifically references Directive EU 2016/2102 (the Web Accessibility Directive). This framework emphasises four core principles:
- Perceivability
- Operability
- Understandability
- Robustness
These principles are implemented through EN 301 549, which currently references WCAG 2.1 AA standards. To ensure optimal compliance and future-proofing, we recommend implementing the most current version available, WCAG 2.2.
Why It Matters
Non-compliance can lead to significant consequences, including:
- Fines and Legal Action: EU member states will enforce the EAA through penalties for non-compliance.
- Reputational Damage: Consumers increasingly favor accessible and inclusive brands.
- Loss of Market Access: Non-compliant products may be barred from the EU market.
Beyond legal obligations, embracing accessibility demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and can expand your customer base.
How to Prepare
- Conduct an Accessibility Audit: Evaluate your digital assets to identify accessibility barriers.
- Implement Necessary Changes: Address issues identified in the audit, ensuring compliance with WCAG standards.
- Train Your Team: Educate your staff on accessibility best practices to maintain compliance.
- Monitor and Maintain: Regularly review and update your digital offerings to ensure ongoing accessibility.
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Ensuring your digital products and services are accessible is not just a legal requirement—it’s a commitment to inclusivity and equal access for all users.
Don’t wait until it’s too late; take action now to comply with the European Accessibility Act.
For more detailed guidance, refer to our previous post:
European Accessibility Act Guide