What Website Owners Need to Know about EEA
Introduction
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a new law that will soon require websites to be more accessible to people with disabilities. From June 28, 2025, businesses operating in the EU must ensure their websites meet these new accessibility standards. It is up to each member state to decide on how to enforce the new standards and nominate an enforcement body who can decide on penalties.
For website owners, this means making sure your site is easy to use for everyone, including those with visual, hearing, or mobility impairments. If your website isn’t accessible, you could face legal consequences and lose potential customers. Accessibility standards have been legally enforceable in the United States since the early 1990s.
Who Does The EEA Act Apply to ?
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Private Sector Businesses
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Large and medium-sized businesses that provide goods or services covered by the Act. (10+ Employees / Revenue over €2 million)
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SMEs (small and micro-businesses) are generally exempt but they are encouraged to follow best practices.
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Public Sector Entities
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Government agencies and organisations providing public services.
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Manufacturers, Importers & Distributors
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Companies making, importing or selling affected products in the EU must ensure compliance.
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✅ Exemption for Microenterprises:
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Microenterprises are not obligated to comply with the full requirements of the EAA when providing services (like e-commerce, banking, ticketing, etc.).
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This exemption is intended to reduce the burden on very small businesses, recognizing their limited resources.
⚠️ Important Nuances:
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While they’re exempt from mandatory compliance, voluntary compliance is encouraged—especially if:
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If a microenterprise sells products, they might still be subject to some accessibility requirements depending on how those products are distributed or used in regulated environments.
Bottom Line:
If your company has <10 employees and makes <€2M/year, you’re generally not legally required to meet EAA service accessibility standards—but aligning with them could still benefit your business, especially long term.
What Are Your Obligations?
The EAA applies to many sectors, including e-commerce, banking, transport and online services. If your business operates in these areas, you must ensure your website is accessible. Even if your sector isn’t directly affected, following these guidelines can help you create a better online experience for all users.
Your main responsibility as a website owner is to make sure your website meets accessibility standards. You don’t need to handle all the technical details yourself but you should work with your web designer or developer to ensure compliance.
Scope
Products and Services within the Scope of the Act.
These include the following:
- Computers and operating systems
- Automated teller machines (ATMs), ticketing and check-in machines
- Smartphones
- V equipment related to digital television services
- Telephony services and related equipment
- Access to audio-visual media services
- Services related to air, bus, rail and water transport
- Banking services
- E-books
- Ecommerce
What to Ask Your Web Designer to Check
1. Can Everyone Use My Website?
Ask your web designer to test the site with different users, including those who rely on screen readers or keyboard navigation instead of a mouse.
2. Are Images and Videos Accessible?
Ensure all images have alt text (a short description for visually impaired users) and that videos have captions or transcripts.
3. Is the Text Easy to Read?
Your website should use clear, simple language and have a high contrast between text and background for better readability.
4. Can Users Navigate Without a Mouse?
People with mobility issues may not use a mouse. Your site should be fully keyboard-accessible, allowing users to navigate using the Tab and Enter keys.
5. Are Forms and Buttons Easy to Use?
Forms should have clear labels, and buttons should have descriptive text (e.g., “Submit Order” instead of just “Click Here”).
6. Is the Website Compatible with Assistive Technologies?
Your web designer should ensure the site works with screen readers and other accessibility tools used by people with disabilities.
Why It Matters
Making your website accessible is not just about avoiding fines—it’s about providing a better experience for all visitors. An accessible website can help you reach more customers, improve SEO and enhance your brand’s reputation.
Get Ready Now
If your website hasn’t been checked for accessibility, now is the time to act. Work with your web designer to ensure your site meets the European Accessibility Act requirements before the deadline.
Heads Up
Changes to your website by a web designer or content manager to make it EAA compliant will almost certainly incur a fee – unless you previously agreed an Accessibility requirement with your web designer.
Need Help?
If you’re unsure where to start – talk to Jascom Ltd who understands accessibility requirements. Ensuring compliance now will save you time, money and potential legal issues in the future.
