As of 28 June 2025, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) is in force, setting clear requirements for accessibility across the European Union.

This new law marks a major shift toward making products and services usable for everyone, reinforcing the right of all consumers to access technology on equal terms.

And when we say “everyone,” we truly mean it. Accessibility is not only for people with permanent disabilities. It can help someone wearing sunglasses on a bright day, a commuter juggling a coffee and a phone, or a driver who needs voice instructions instead of small on-screen text. The truth is, we all experience moments when accessibility features make our lives easier.

What the EAA Covers

The EAA applies to a wide range of products and services, including:

• Websites and mobile applications

• E-books and e-readers

• E-commerce platforms and online services

• Banking and payment systems

• Ticketing and travel information platforms

• Self service terminals such as ATMs or check-in kiosks

For many businesses, one of the biggest changes is that transactional websites and apps must now meet accessibility standards.

Why the EAA Matters

The EAA is more than a legal requirement. It is an opportunity for organisations to create experiences that are inclusive by design. It applies to any business that serves consumers in the EU — regardless of whether the organisation is physically based there. That means if you offer websites, apps, e-commerce platforms, or other digital services to European users, you need to pay attention.

When you make your website or app easier to navigate, you are not just helping someone with a visual impairment. You are also helping the person trying to use it on a small phone screen, the commuter reading on a bumpy train, or the traveller who has limited mobile data and needs a faster-loading page. Accessibility is good design. It benefits everyone.

Who Needs to Comply

If your organisation offers goods or services to the European market, you are likely required to meet EAA standards, regardless of where your business is based. This includes companies that sell online, provide apps, or distribute digital publications.

Your Key Obligations

To comply with the EAA, organisations should ensure:

• Accessible digital interfaces – including screen reader compatibility, clear navigation, and readable fonts

• Inclusive customer support – ensuring all users can access service information and assistance

• Accessibility-first product design – such as adjustable settings and compatibility with assistive technologies

• Up-to-date accessibility statements – published and maintained for all relevant services

Following the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 and the EN 301 549 standard is widely considered the best way to meet EAA requirements.

Risks of Non-Compliance

Ignoring the EAA is not just a missed opportunity for inclusion. It can lead to:

• Financial penalties

• Withdrawal of non-compliant products or services

• Loss of consumer trust and reputational damage

How to Prepare for EAA Compliance

Accessibility is easiest to achieve when it is part of your process from the start. Here are a few ways to begin:

• Review your digital platforms with an accessibility audit

• Make inclusive design a non-negotiable part of your workflow

• Partner with a team that understands accessibility and how to apply it across multiple languages and cultures

Moving Forward

Accessibility should not be treated as a last-minute checklist. When it is integrated into your design process from the start, you create better experiences for all users while protecting your business from risk.

At Noran Design, we help organisations navigate accessibility requirements with clarity and care. From audits and accessibility statements to multilingual, inclusive UX design, we work to ensure your digital platforms are ready for everyone — now and in the future.