From 28 June 2025, an essential change will take effect for websites and digital services in Europe. On that date, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) comes into force. This European law ensures that digital products are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. In this article, based on years of experience in web development and online accessibility, we explain what the EAA entails, who must comply, and how you can check whether your website is ready.
What is the European Accessibility Act?
The European Accessibility Act is European legislation that makes digital accessibility mandatory. This includes websites, webshops, apps, payment terminals, and e-readers, which must be usable for everyone, including people who rely on assistive technologies such as screen readers or keyboard-only navigation.
The directive officially comes into force on 28 June 2025 and applies to all EU Member States. This new legislation is based on the WCAG 2.1 guidelines (level AA), which have long been the standard for accessible websites.
Who does the EAA apply to, and who is exempt?
The law is primarily intended for medium-sized and large companies that operate online. This includes, for example, providers of digital services, webshops, banks, and ticketing platforms.
Small businesses are not required to comply if they have fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover below 2 million euros.
Are you a self-employed professional or do you run a small webshop? Then you are likely exempt. Even so, it is still wise to start considering digital accessibility, as it increases both your reach and your credibility.
How do you check whether your website complies?
Do you want to know whether your website complies with accessibility requirements? Easily scan your site using this free online accessibility tool.
This tool analyses your website on aspects such as:
- colour contrast and readability
- alternative text for images
- keyboard navigation
- structure and layout of your content
You receive a clear report that shows exactly what you are doing well and where improvements can be made. We regularly use this tool during audits of client websites, as it provides an accessible and reliable first step.
What does the European Commission say?
The European Commission has published an official announcement about the introduction of the European Accessibility Act, which you can view here.
“The European Accessibility Act aims to ensure that digital environments are usable for everyone – including people with disabilities.”
This message underscores the societal importance of the legislation. Accessibility is no longer an “extra”, but a fundamental part of good service delivery.
Useful check on our website
At Trienekens Online, we do more than just build websites; we also help businesses navigate digital regulations. That is why we are currently developing a simple check tool that allows you to quickly determine whether your organisation falls under the obligation.
➡️ Run the check now via our EAA scan and find out whether your company needs to take action.
In summary
The EAA requires many businesses to make their digital products accessible from June 2025 onwards. If your company does not fall under the exemption, now is the right time to start making improvements.
