European Accessibility Act Compliance Guide

This guide outlines the requirements of the European Accessibility Act (EAA), which mandates that various consumer products and services, particularly digital experiences, must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. The EAA, enacted in 2019, requires compliance by June 2025 for organizations conducting business within the European Union, regardless of their location. The document details the types of products and services affected, including e-commerce websites, mobile applications, and essential services in communication and transportation. It specifies that while the EAA does not set technical standards, the European standard EN 301 549, which incorporates WCAG 2.1 AA standards, serves as a benchmark for compliance. The guide emphasizes the importance of ongoing accessibility training for employees and the need for organizations to monitor compliance continuously. It also discusses the necessity of publishing an accessibility statement and outlines the potential penalties for non-compliance, which can vary by country.