Everything about the European Accessibility Act

European Accessibility Act – Ready for 2025?

What is the EAA, and why is it important for your company?

The European Accessibility Act (Directive (EU) 2019/882) aims to make key digital products and services more accessible for people with disabilities and to strengthen equal participation in the digital world.

Many companies that offer digital services or products to consumers are legally required to meet clear accessibility standards- These are defined by the European standard EN 301 549, which is currently based on WCAG 2.1 Level AA.
WCAG 2.2 builds on these requirements and is becoming increasingly relevant.

Why it matters:
The EAA isn’t just a legal requirement. It reflects a broader shift toward inclusion, digital responsibility, and usability for all. Companies that act early not only reduce risk but also:

• Open their digital services to millions of people with disabilities

• Improve overall user experience, for everyone

• Strengthen their brand through visible commitment to inclusion

• Future-proof their services as accessibility becomes standard

In short: The EAA isn’t just about compliance. It’s a key step toward digital equality — and a strategic advantage for businesses that care about long-term user trust and relevance.

European Accessibility Act and beyond – one goal: Digital accessibility

Digital accessibility in Europe is regulated at different levels:

European Accessibility Act (EAA)
→ An EU-wide directive setting minimum accessibility standards for products and services across the internal market.
Example: A streaming provider available in EU countries must ensure its app works with screen readers.

National implementations
→ Each EU member state is responsible for transposing the EAA into national law. In Germany, for instance, this takes the form of the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG), which applies to many private companies, and the BITV 2.0, which regulates accessibility for public sector websites and applications.

Depending on the country, different regulations and enforcement mechanisms apply – but the goal remains the same: ensuring digital accessibility across both the public and private sectors, from government portals to e-commerce platforms.

Why should I comply with the EAA? 

Complying with the European Accessibility Act (EAA) is not just a legal necessity — it's a strategic advantage. From June 28, 2025, many digital products and services must be accessible across the EU. This includes websites, mobile apps, e-commerce platforms, self-service terminals, banking services, and more. Non-compliance can lead to fines, restricted market access, and reputational damage.

By making your offerings accessible, you reach over 80 million people in the EU living with disabilities, expand your market potential, and demonstrate a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Accessibility also improves usability for all users, which can lead to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Taking action now allows your organization to plan efficiently, avoid last-minute fixes, and build accessibility into your digital strategy. It positions your business as responsible, forward-thinking, and prepared for a more inclusive future.

When do I need to comply? 

Since 28 June 2025, affected products and services must comply with EAA accessibility requirements.

Delaying accessibility increases complexity and effort. The earlier it is integrated, the more efficient and sustainable implementation becomes.

Acting now means:

• assessing your current level of accessibility

• making structured, manageable improvements

• achieving compliance step by step

Early action not only supports compliance but also improves the quality of your digital services and the overall user experience.

Who does the EAA affect?

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) applies to a broad range of businesses involved in the design, production, distribution, and provision of digital products and services within the EU. Specifically, it covers:

• Manufacturers – responsible for the accessibility of the products they design and produce

• Importers – bringing relevant products into the EU market

• Distributors – placing those products on the market or making them available

• Service providers – offering digital services directly to consumers

Exceptions:
Microenterprises — companies with fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover or balance sheet total of no more than €2 million — are exempt from the EAA’s service-related obligations. However, they may still be indirectly affected (e.g. when selling via larger platforms or to public institutions) and are encouraged to follow accessibility best practices voluntarily.

The EAA applies to a variety of sectors. Businesses offering the following types of digital products or services are typically in scope:

• E-commerce platforms and online shops

• Online banking and financial services

• Telecommunications and internet service providers

• E-books and e-reading software

• Public transport booking and travel apps

• Audio-visual media and streaming services

• Consumer-facing software and operating systems

• Self-service terminals such as ATMs, ticket machines, and check-in kiosks

How does Eye-Able support compliance with the EAA?

Eye-Able helps your company comply with the EAA by providing practical, easy-to-integrate digital accessibility solutions. Our software tools enhance website usability for all users through features like contrast adjustment, screen reader support, and text resizing — all in line with accessibility standards such as WCAG 2.2 and EN 301 549.

We also offer detailed accessibility audits, generate legally required accessibility statements, and provide tailored recommendations to help you meet EAA requirements quickly and effectively. This way you turn the law from a challenge into an opportunity.

Beyond tools, Eye-Able supports your long-term accessibility strategy with training for your teams, ongoing monitoring, and additional services like Plain Language translation and AI-based multilingual accessibility. With our all-in-one solution and expert support, you not only avoid legal risks — you build trust, reach more users, and position your company as a leader in digital inclusion.

Not sure where to start? Don't worry. We are here to help.