The European Accessibility Act (EAA) has applied since 28 June 2025. It requires many consumer-facing digital products and services sold in the EU, including eCommerce websites and apps, to be accessible to people with disabilities. If you sell online to EU consumers, your store may need to meet accessibility requirements, typically aligned with EN 301 549 and WCAG 2.1 AA.
1Who Is Affected
The EAA covers specific products and services, including eCommerce services, consumer banking, e-books, transport ticketing and certain devices. Businesses that sell to EU consumers through websites or apps are often in scope, including some based outside the EU. Microenterprises providing services (fewer than 10 employees and annual turnover or balance sheet of no more than €2 million) are exempt from the service requirements.
2What Standards Apply
The harmonised standard EN 301 549 is the main reference, and for web content it largely incorporates WCAG 2.1 Level AA. Meeting WCAG 2.2 AA is a sensible target that covers these requirements and future-proofs your site.
3Key Requirements for Online Stores
- Product information perceivable by screen readers
- Accessible navigation, search and filters
- Keyboard-accessible checkout and forms
- Clear error messages and labels
- Sufficient contrast and resizable text
- Accessible payment and authentication steps
- An accessibility statement explaining how you comply
4How to Prepare
Run an accessibility audit combining automated tools and manual testing, prioritise fixes on high-traffic templates such as product, cart and checkout, update your design system so new pages are accessible by default, and publish an accessibility statement. Train content editors on alt text, headings and link text.
5Enforcement
Each EU member state enforces the EAA through national authorities, with penalties set nationally. Beyond compliance, accessible stores reach more customers and often convert better. This article is general information, not legal advice. Check your obligations with a qualified adviser.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the European Accessibility Act come into force?
Its requirements apply from 28 June 2025 for products and services placed on the EU market after that date, with some transition periods for existing services.
Does the EAA apply to small businesses?
Microenterprises providing services are exempt from the service requirements. Other small and medium businesses selling to EU consumers may be covered.
Does the EAA apply to non-EU businesses?
It can apply to businesses outside the EU that sell covered products or services to EU consumers.
Is WCAG compliance enough for the EAA?
Meeting WCAG 2.1 AA, via EN 301 549, covers most web requirements, but you should also publish accessibility information and check sector-specific obligations.
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