European Accessibility Act: What Web Developers Must Know
18/08/2025 · Dev News
The European Accessibility Act took effect in June 2025, requiring all digital products and websites to meet accessibility standards across the EU.
What Is the European Accessibility Act?
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a major EU directive aimed at ensuring that digital products and services are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. It applies to websites, mobile apps, e-commerce platforms, e-books, banking services, and more. The law came into force on 28 June 2025.
Who Needs to Comply?
Any business operating in the EU that provides digital services must comply. This includes SMEs, although micro-enterprises may have lighter requirements. Non-compliance can lead to fines and legal risks, while compliance opens doors to wider audiences and improves brand reputation.
Key Requirements for Developers
- Websites and apps must meet WCAG 2.2 standards (minimum AA level).
- Text alternatives for images, videos, and audio content.
- Keyboard navigation and screen reader compatibility.
- Clear structure with semantic HTML and ARIA roles.
- Colour contrast and resizable text for readability.
Why Accessibility Matters
Accessibility is not just about avoiding fines—it is about inclusion. Over 80 million people in the EU live with some form of disability. Accessible design improves usability for all, boosts SEO, and aligns with ethical digital practices.
Alox & Co Perspective
At Alox & Co, we believe accessibility is a core part of modern web design. From Design to Dev and Host, we integrate accessibility by default, helping clients meet EAA standards while enhancing user experience for everyone.
FAQ
- What is the EAA? The European Accessibility Act is an EU law requiring accessible digital services and products.
- When did it take effect? The EAA became mandatory on 28 June 2025.
- Who must comply? All EU businesses offering digital services, with some exemptions for micro-enterprises.
- What standards apply? WCAG 2.2 guidelines at AA level are the baseline.
Who's the author?
@aloxteam • Alox & Co
This is the official Alox & Co team account, a shared space where our agency speaks with one voice. It’s where we share what we’re building, celebrate milestones, highlight our people, and open the door to conversations with our wider community. While each of our team members has their own voice and perspective, this account captures the bigger picture: company-wide updates, global announcements, and collective insights that reflect not just what we do, but who we are.
