What exactly is the EU Accessibility Act?
The EU Accessibility Act is a European directive designed to ensure that digital products and services are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. This includes websites, apps, self-service kiosks, e-readers, ticketing systems, and even e-commerce platforms.
Starting in June 2025, private sector companies must comply. The directive is implemented through national legislation, including in Belgium. The goal? Guarantee accessibility for all users, regardless of their abilities.
Who does this legislation apply to?
The EAA applies to companies that offer digital products or services on the European market. This includes banks, telecom providers, e-commerce companies, and developers of software and digital platforms.
SMEs with fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover under €2 million are exempt. Still, it’s worthwhile for every business to improve digital accessibility, not just for inclusivity, but also for customer satisfaction and conversion rates.
What do you need to do to be EAA-compliant?
To be compliant, your digital products must meet WCAG 2.2 standards (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). These guidelines are based on four key principles:
Perceivable
Operable
Understandable
Robust
A great way to start is with an Accessibility Audit.
How do I know if my product meets the standards?
Start with a Quick Scan. It will give you immediate insight into your biggest pain points, and where you can make quick wins.
What are the benefits of accessible products?
Accessible digital products offer many advantages:
Larger audience: Reach people with disabilities, older users, or those with temporary limitations (like a broken arm).
Better SEO: Structure, contrast, and clear navigation help search engines too.
Higher conversion rates: Accessible UX is usually better for all users.
Legal security: Avoid fines and legal risks.
How do I get started?
The first step is understanding where you currently stand. Then, create a roadmap to full accessibility compliance by June 2025.
Not sure if the EAA applies to you?
