The European Accessibility Act (EAA) aims to create a harmonized set of digital accessibility standards for organizations operating in the EU. By June 28, 2025, all public and private businesses must comply with the EAA to ensure their websites and digital services are accessible to people with disabilities.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of EAA compliance timelines and key milestones, check out our guide to the European Accessibility Act
Here’s a breakdown of the EAA’s key milestones and how they affect website accessibility.
2011: The Origins of Digital Accessibility in the EU
The EAA’s roots trace back to 2011 when the European Commission identified the need for consistent accessibility standards across EU nations. This marked the beginning of the push toward harmonizing accessibility regulations.
2016: The Introduction of Directive 2016/2102 (The Web Accessibility Directive)
In October 2016, the Web Accessibility Directive (Directive 2016/2102) was introduced to improve accessibility for public-sector websites and mobile apps. The directive mandated that these digital platforms be perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users, particularly those with disabilities. Key deadlines included:
- September 2018: Member States transposed the directive into national law.
- September 2019: New public-sector websites had to comply.
- September 2020: All existing public-sector websites were required to conform.
- June 2021: Public-sector mobile apps were included.
2019: The European Accessibility Act Expands the Scope
In April 2019, the EAA was introduced, building on the Web Accessibility Directive but expanding beyond public-sector websites. The EAA extended its reach to private-sector websites, covering e-commerce, financial services, and transportation. The standard that companies must meet is EN 301 549, closely aligned with WCAG 2.1 AA.
To understand how non-EU companies need to handle EAA compliance, check out our guide on EAA compliance for non-EU companies
2022: National Legislation for EAA Compliance
By June 2022, all EU member states were required to implement the EAA into their national laws. This step was crucial to aligning accessibility standards across all EU countries, making compliance easier for companies operating across multiple regions.
For businesses with websites, this harmonization means adopting the EN 301 549 standard to ensure compliance.
June 28, 2025: EAA Full Compliance Deadline
The final and most important milestone comes on June 28, 2025, when full compliance with the European Accessibility Act becomes mandatory. After this date, customers can file complaints about non-compliant websites or services, and companies that fail to meet the EAA accessibility requirements could face fines, exclusion from procurement processes, and potential damage to their reputation.
It’s important to note that penalties may be particularly severe in some countries. For example, in Italy, fines can reach up to 5% of the previous year’s income, making non-compliance costly.
The EAA mandates that all websites, mobile apps, and other digital services be accessible, and businesses should take proactive steps to audit their platforms and implement necessary changes ahead of this deadline.
What Does the EAA Mean for Websites?
The EAA and EN 301 549 standards require companies to ensure that their websites:
- Support screen readers and keyboard navigation.
- Offer high contrast and alternative text for images.
- Ensure forms are accessible, with proper labels for assistive technologies.
- Make sure all documentation, including user manuals and customer service materials, is accessible.
The goal is to remove any digital barriers for people with disabilities and ensure that websites and mobile services are accessible to all.
Curious about how Italy’s digital accessibility laws fit into the EAA? Learn more in our blog on Italy’s digital accessibility law
How EN 301 549 Aligns with Website Accessibility
EN 301 549 is the technical standard that aligns with WCAG 2.1 AA but also includes additional considerations for non-web digital products, such as software, hardware, and documentation. While websites are a key focus, the standard extends beyond web content, covering all aspects of digital services.
Start Your Website Compliance Journey Now
With the June 2025 deadline approaching, now is the time to ensure your website complies with EAA accessibility requirements. A proactive approach, including regular audits and updates, will help avoid last-minute fixes and ensure a seamless, inclusive user experience.
By aligning with EN 301 549 and staying ahead of the compliance deadline, businesses can create more inclusive digital experiences, expand their market, and avoid potential penalties.
Looking for practical strategies for compliance? Check out our blog on how to optimize your EAA compliance strategy
If you’re unsure where to start, contact an accessibility expert to help you meet the required standards and ensure your website is fully compliant.
Stay on top of key milestones and ensure your business is ready for 2025. Join our upcoming webinar on "The European Accessibility Act (EAA): Requirements for Compliance" to learn everything you need to know. Register now and prepare your digital properties for compliance!
