Since the European Accessibility Act was approved, many companies are wondering if, when and how they should comply. And one of the most common doubts is about the famous “moratorium until 2030”.
This article explains which companies are obligated and how that deadline should be correctly interpreted.
Which companies are required to comply with the European Accessibility Law (EAA)?
The European Accessibility Act (European Accessibility Act or EAA) establishes a series of mandatory requirements for digital products and services within the European Union market. However, not all companies are required to comply with this directive.
The regulations mainly affect those companies that offer digital products or services to the public, especially in sectors defined as priorities in Directive (EU) 2019/882.
To whom does the European Accessibility Law apply?
They are obliged to comply:
- E-commerce and online sales platforms.
- Mobile applications with content or functionalities for end users.
- Digital banking services and online payment platforms.
- Transport platforms, telephone services, electronic books, etc.
- Companies that design, develop or market digital products such as hardware or software intended for public use.
- Organizations that operate in more than one EU Member State or whose digital services have cross-border reach within the Union.
- Private providers that provide digital services to the public sector under contract or subcontracting.
Exceptions to the obligation
They are not required (with specific exceptions):
- Microbusinesses: those with less than 10 employees and an annual turnover of less than 2 million euros, except if they voluntarily decide to join or if they work for public entities.
- Companies whose services do not fit into the sectors defined by the Directive (for example, internal software that is not aimed at the end consumer).
What does the “moratorium until 2030” mean in the European Accessibility Law?
One of the main confusions about the EAA is the actual compliance deadline. There is often mistaken talk of a moratorium until 2030, when in reality the most relevant date is June 28, 2025.
What happens after June 28, 2025?
- All new digital services (such as redesigned websites, launched mobile applications or renewed functionalities) must meet the accessibility criteria established in the EAA.
- Services already existing before that date may continue to function without the need to adapt, as long as they do not undergo substantial modifications in their structure or functionality.
And what really happens in 2030?
The year 2030 does not mark the end of a general moratorium, but rather the limit for the adaptation of physical products placed on the market before 2025.
- This period applies exclusively to devices such as self-service terminals, ATMs, card readers, etc.
- Websites and mobile applications are not directly affected by this period, unless they are integrated into a physical marketed product.
Key recommendations for private companies
The implementation of the European Accessibility Law represents an opportunity to improve user experience, digital reach and regulatory compliance. These are some recommendations to get ahead of the change:
- Carry out a digital accessibility audit as soon as possible to detect barriers and define an adaptation plan.
- If your company plans to redesign its website or launch a new app, you should already apply the accessibility principles required by the EAA.
- Develop a progressive compliance strategy, especially if you manage multiple digital channels or complex services.
- Documents each technical and functional advance in accordance with Annex V of the Directive, as part of the required traceability.
Conclusion: Is your company ready for the European Accessibility Law?
The European Accessibility Law is not limited to the public sector. Many private companies – especially those in the digital environment – must prepare before June 2025. Ignoring regulations not only implies legal risks and sanctions, but also a significant loss of competitiveness, reputation and inclusion.
The sooner the adaptation process is started, the more efficient the transition will be and the lower the implementation cost.
Do you have doubts about whether your company is obliged to comply with the EAA? Do you need a technical audit or strategic advice to comply with the European Accessibility Law? Contact us and we will help you comply without complications.
