The European Accessibility Act 2025

The European Accessibility Act is European Union legislation aimed at improving the accessibility of products and services for people with functional disabilities. The aim is to remove barriers and provide equal opportunities for all, regardless of their disabilities.

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Introduction to the European Accessibility Act

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) marks a pivotal step toward building a more inclusive and equitable European Union. Designed to ensure that products and services are accessible to people with disabilities, the Act sets a unified standard for accessibility across all EU member states.

The official name for the EAA is:

DIRECTIVE (EU) 2019/882 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL

Accessibility isn’t just about compliance, it’s about creating equal opportunities for everyone. By improving access to digital products, physical services, and public infrastructure, the EAA enhances participation in society and the economy for millions of Europeans.

What Is the European Accessibility Act (EAA)?

The European Accessibility Act is a directive adopted by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union in 2019, with full enforcement beginning on June 28, 2025. Its primary goal is to make essential products and services, such as ATMs, websites, smartphones, and e-commerce platforms, accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities.

Essentially, the Act seeks to remove barriers to accessibility in the internal market, enabling businesses to operate across borders with a consistent set of accessibility requirements.

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Why the EAA Matters for Digital Accessibility

Digital accessibility is central to the modern economy. With over 135 million Europeans living with some form of disability, ensuring equitable access to digital platforms is both a moral and economic necessity.

The EAA provides a harmonized legal framework that eliminates fragmented national laws, making it easier for companies to comply with one consistent standard while fostering innovation and inclusivity.

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Key Goals and Vision Behind the Act

The European Accessibility Act was built on three core principles:

  1. Equality – Ensuring all citizens can access products and services without discrimination.

  2. Economic Efficiency – Reducing trade barriers by unifying accessibility rules across the EU.

  3. Innovation – Encouraging businesses to adopt universal design and inclusive technologies.

Historical Background and Legislative Timeline

The journey toward the European Accessibility Act (EAA) began in the early 2000s, when the European Union started prioritizing the rights of people with disabilities. After years of consultation with accessibility experts, disability organizations, and businesses, the formal proposal for the EAA was presented in 2015.

  1. 2015

    The European Commission proposes the European Accessibility Act.

  2. December 2016

    The EU introduces a directive for the accessibility of government websites and apps, ensuring digital products and services are usable for everyone. In the Netherlands, this directive was transposed into national law through a General Measure of Administration: the Temporary Decree on Digital Accessibility of Government.

    • WCAG 2.2 audits

      Use our WCAG audits to get a clear picture of how accessible your website, app or PDF document is.

  3. April 17, 2019

    The European Parliament and Council formally sign the European Accessibility Act.

  4. June 2022

    EU member states are required to adopt and translate the directive into national legislation.

  5. June 2022

    EU member states must translate and adopt the directive into their national legislation.

  6. June 14, 2023

    Directive (EU) 2019/882 is implemented in the second chamber of the States General in the Netherlands.

  7. June 28, 2025

    The European Accessibility Act 2025 officially went into effect.

Scope of the European Accessibility Act

The EAA applies to a wide range of products and services, particularly those used in digital environments or public spaces.

Products Covered Under the Act

  • Computers and operating systems

  • Smartphones and tablets

  • ATMs, ticketing machines, and check-in kiosks

  • TVs and related equipment

  • E-readers and banking devices

Services Covered Under the Act

  • E-commerce websites

  • Banking and financial services

  • Public transport systems

  • Telecommunication and emergency services

  • Audio-visual media services

Who Must Comply With the EAA?

All manufacturers, service providers, and distributors operating within the EU, including non-EU companies selling to EU consumers, must comply with the EAA.

Benefits of the European Accessibility Act

The EAA isn’t just a legal requirement, it’s an opportunity for social progress and business growth.

Enhancing User Experience for All

Accessibility improvements benefit everyone, not just people with disabilities. Better color contrast, intuitive navigation, and voice commands make products easier for all users, from elderly individuals to those in low-light or noisy environments.

Expanding Market Reach Through Inclusivity

By designing accessible products, companies can reach millions of additional customers who were previously excluded due to barriers. This expansion enhances competitiveness in both domestic and cross-border EU markets.

Strengthening Brand Reputation and Trust

Brands that embrace accessibility are viewed as ethical, inclusive, and customer-centric. Demonstrating social responsibility can significantly boost corporate image and attract loyal customers.

Challenges and Common Misconceptions

Despite its benefits, the EAA comes with challenges that many businesses must navigate.

Cost and Implementation Myths

A common misconception is that accessibility is costly and time-consuming. In reality, the cost of inaccessibility is far greater, lost customers, legal risks, and missed opportunities. Integrating accessibility early in the design phase reduces expenses and ensures long-term sustainability.

Overcoming Technical and Legal Barriers

Some organizations struggle to interpret the EAA’s technical requirements. Collaborating with accessibility consultants and legal advisors can help clarify compliance pathways and documentation procedures.

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Exceptions to the European Accessibility Act

While the European Accessibility Act imposes obligations on many companies and industries starting in 2025, there are several important exceptions. These are grouped into the following categories:

1. Company Size

Companies with fewer than 10 employees and annual sales below €2 million are exempt from EAA requirements.

2. Business-to-Business (B2B)

The EAA does not apply to businesses that supply products or services exclusively to other businesses, provided these are not used by consumers. For example: CRM software used only internally by other companies.

3. Fundamental Change

Companies are exempt if compliance requires a fundamental change, such as altering the nature of a product or service, or restructuring the organization to meet accessibility standards.

4. Disproportionate Burden

If the effort needed to comply is disproportionately large relative to the target population, an exemption may be possible. This is difficult to obtain and requires extensive documentation and justification.

5. Certain Websites and Apps

Some types of digital content are exempt, including:

  • Pre-recorded or time-based media (e.g., webinars)

  • Office file formats (e.g., Word or Excel documents)

  • Online maps

  • Third-party content not created by the company

6. Building Requirements

The EAA does not cover accessibility requirements for buildings. In the Netherlands, these are regulated separately under the Building Code.

Core Requirements and Technical Standards

The EAA aligns closely with existing international standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1) and the European standard EN 301 549.

Accessibility Standards and Guidelines

These frameworks set rules for:

  • Text alternatives for non-text content

  • Keyboard navigability

  • Contrast ratios for readability

  • Compatibility with assistive technologies

Universal Design and Usability

Products must be designed using a universal design approach, ensuring usability for the widest possible audience, regardless of ability or age.

Specific Obligations for Businesses

Organizations must:

  • Conduct accessibility testing

  • Maintain technical documentation

  • Provide accessibility statements

  • Respond promptly to user feedback

Impact EAA on Businesses and Organizations

The EAA will reshape how companies design, develop, and deliver their services.

Compliance Deadlines and Preparation Steps

Businesses must have achieved full compliance by June 28, 2025. Preparation steps include conducting audits, training teams, and adapting technology infrastructure

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance can result in fines, reputational damage, or loss of market access in the EU. Each member state is responsible for enforcement.

Opportunities for Inclusive Growth

Beyond compliance, the EAA opens doors for innovation, creating inclusive digital products that reach wider audiences and enhance brand reputation.

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Digital Accessibility and the EAA

The European Accessibility Act strongly emphasizes digital accessibility, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can use technology and online services effectively.

Web, Mobile, and E-Commerce Compliance

Websites and mobile applications are a core focus of the EAA. Businesses must ensure their digital platforms are perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust, in line with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.

For e-commerce websites, this means:

  • Clear navigation and labels

  • Alternative text for all images

  • Keyboard accessibility for all interactive elements

  • Descriptive error messages and guidance for form inputs

  • Accessible payment systems

This is not just a legal obligation, it’s a strategic advantage. Accessible sites attract a broader audience, improve SEO rankings, and enhance user satisfaction.

Accessibility for Banking, Transport, and Telecom Services

Under the EAA, industries like banking, transportation, and telecommunications must also comply with accessibility requirements. For instance:

  • Banks must make ATMs and online services usable for people with vision or motor impairments.

  • Transport companies need accessible booking systems and digital information services.

  • Telecom providers must ensure accessible customer interfaces and emergency communication services.

Assistive Technologies and Innovation

The Act fosters innovation by promoting assistive technologies, tools like screen readers, voice recognition software, and hearing-aid compatible devices. By integrating these technologies into mainstream design, companies can deliver inclusive, future-ready products.

How to Prepare for EAA Compliance

The countdown to the 2025 compliance deadline is well underway, with June 28, 2025, already behind us. Here’s how organizations can still prepare effectively and ensure ongoing compliance.

  1. Plan of action

    Do you know which services in your organization must meet the requirements of the European Accessibility Act? Together, we’ll create a clear plan of action to achieve compliance.

  2. Gap Analysis

    What’s the current state of accessibility in your organization, both physically and digitally? With a thorough gap analysis, you’ll establish the foundation needed to build an inclusive and accessible organization.

    • WCAG 2.2 audits

      Use our WCAG audits to get a clear picture of how accessible your website, app or PDF document is.

  3. Building knowledge and awareness

    We help your organization take the next step toward accessibility by empowering your colleagues. Through training and awareness sessions, your team will learn why accessibility matters, not just because of legislation, but because everyone deserves equal access to the digital and physical world.

    • Awareness

      What is digital (in)accessibility and who are you ultimately digitally accessible to?

    • Trainings

      Take one of our accessibility training courses and become a specialist in digital accessibility.

  4. Closing the gap

    Now it’s time to move from identifying issues to implementing solutions. We help integrate accessibility improvements into your workflows and development processes, so every new product and service meets accessibility standards.

    • Cardan Care

      Get additional advice and support during your work on digital accessibility.

  5. Secure

    To ensure long-term compliance, accessibility must become part of your organization’s DNA. By embedding it in your processes, you’ll continue to meet the European Accessibility Act and maintain inclusive services for everyone.

  6. Review

    Accessibility is an ongoing process. Together with Cardan, you’ll keep improving and stay informed about the latest developments and trends.

  7. Review

    Together with Cardan, you continue to work on organizational accessibility. Cardan keeps you informed of the latest trends and developments.

European Accessibility Act vs. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Accessibility legislation isn’t unique to Europe. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has guided accessibility efforts in the U.S. since 1990.

Key Similarities and Differences

AspectEuropean Accessibility Act (EAA)Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
ScopeApplies to products and services sold in the EUApplies to physical and digital environments in the U.S.
FocusHarmonizing accessibility across EU member statesPreventing discrimination in employment and services
StandardsBased on EN 301 549 and WCAG 2.1Guided by Section 508 and WCAG
EnforcementManaged by individual EU countriesEnforced through U.S. Department of Justice

Lessons Europe Can Learn from the ADA

The ADA has shown that consistent enforcement and awareness campaigns are crucial. Europe can leverage these lessons to strengthen its accessibility framework and promote cross-border innovation.

The Future of Accessibility in the EU

Innovations and Emerging Technologies

The next decade will see rapid growth in AI-driven accessibility tools, voice-based navigation, and inclusive UX design. The EAA will continue to inspire these innovations, ensuring that accessibility becomes the norm, not the exception.

How EAA Shapes the Digital Future

By 2030, Europe aims to create a fully accessible digital single market. The EAA serves as the foundation for this transformation, fostering collaboration between technology, policy, and human rights.

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The European Accessibility Act marks a major step toward a more equitable, inclusive, and innovative Europe. It challenges organizations to go beyond compliance, to create experiences that truly empower every user.

By embracing accessibility now, you’re not just meeting legal requirements for 2025, you’re investing in a more inclusive digital future for everyone.

Marijn, expert in the EAA, will guide you away.

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