The countdown is on: by June 28, 2025, businesses operating in the European Union must comply with the European Accessibility Act (EAA). This new legislation aims to break digital barriers and make products and services more accessible to people with disabilities.
If your company offers digital services like e-commerce, banking, or media streaming, you need to act now to ensure compliance. But accessibility is more than just meeting legal requirements. It can improve user experience, expand your customer base, and reinforce your brand's commitment to inclusivity.
In this blog, we'll break down what you need to do to prepare for the EAA deadline, the key exceptions to be aware of, and why prioritizing accessibility is good for business.
What is the European Accessibility Act?
The European Accessibility Act (Directive 2019/882) builds upon previous accessibility regulations by extending requirements to a broad range of private-sector services. It applies to digital platforms, self-service terminals, and various online and offline services, including:
E-commerce platforms
Banking apps and ATMs
Transportation services (air, bus, train, water transport)
Telecommunications and online communication
TV, streaming platforms, and e-books
Emergency services
If your company operates in any of these areas, ensuring compliance is non-negotiable by June 2025.
Key exceptions: Do they apply to you?
While the EAA sets a high bar for accessibility, some exceptions exist to provide flexibility for specific cases:
Transition Period: Products launched before June 28, 2025, have until June 28, 2030, to comply.
Self-Service Terminals: Exempt until 2045 or the end of their lifecycle.
Legacy Content: Videos and documents published before June 28, 2025, are exempt.
Microenterprises: Businesses with fewer than 10 employees and revenue under €2 million are not required to comply.
Disproportionate Burden: If accessibility changes would cause undue hardship or require a fundamental product redesign, exceptions can be requested with documented proof.
Three steps to ensure compliance by 2025
Meet the EN 301 549 Standard. This European standard aligns with the WCAG2.1 A & AA guidelines, ensuring the accessibility of websites and digital products.
Publish an Accessibility Statement Transparency is key. Businesses must provide a public accessibility statement outlining compliance measures. Tools like FOD BOSA’s template assistant can help create one.
Implement Ongoing Accessibility Practices Accessibility isn’t a one-time fix. Establish regular audits, employee training, and a process for addressing accessibility issues as they arise.
Why accessibility matters for your business
Beyond compliance, accessibility brings tangible benefits:
1. Reach a wider audience
With 16% of the world’s population living with disabilities, inclusive digital products unlock new customer segments and improve user retention.
2. Strengthen your brand
A commitment to accessibility signals innovation and inclusivity, enhancing brand reputation and attracting both customers and top talent.
3. Avoid legal and financial risks
Non-compliance can result in fines, legal challenges, and reputational damage. Proactively addressing accessibility reduces these risks and ensures future-proof digital experiences.
Need help getting started?
Navigating accessibility requirements can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We’re here to simplify the process and help you turn compliance into an opportunity.
Take the first step toward a more inclusive and future-proof digital product by scheduling a call with our expert, Tine. In this personalized consultation, you’ll get clear insights into the 2025 accessibility standards and how they impact your business. More than just meeting regulations, we’ll show you how accessibility can drive innovation and growth.
