Preparing for the EU Accessibility Act: June 2025 Deadline & Beyond

June 28, 2025 Compliance Kick-off

On June 28, 2025 all new products and services—ranging from hardware like ATMs and ticketing machines to software applications and online platforms—must conform to the harmonised accessibility standard EN 301 549. Companies need to complete design reviews, carry out both automated and manual accessibility tests, and update their EU Declaration of Conformity, ensuring every release meets the needs of people with disabilities, older users, and those with temporary impairments.

Transition Period for Legacy Offerings

Items placed on the market before the 2025 deadline benefit from a five-year grace period. Products can continue to be sold and serviced until June 28, 2030, and service contracts signed before mid-2025 can run their full term—no later than that 2030 cutoff. Organisations that face “fundamental change” or “disproportionate burden” issues when retrofitting must document their case and secure approval from national regulators.

Five-Year Roadmap to Accessibility

Achieving long-term success requires:

• Conducting a comprehensive gap analysis with certified accessibility auditors or Notified Bodies.
• Embedding “accessibility-by-design” in development workflows, including user testing with people with disabilities.
• Training staff and appointing internal accessibility champions to oversee policies and procurement.
• Providing all user guides, packaging and support channels in alternative formats such as Braille, large-print and screen-reader-friendly documents.
• Implementing supplier management protocols that mandate accessibility clauses and regular compliance checks.

Appointing an Authorised Representative

Manufacturers and software vendors outside the EU must designate an EU-based Authorised Representative (AR) before placing covered products or digital offerings on the market. A formal written mandate empowers the AR to hold technical documentation—including EN 301 549 test reports—liaise with market-surveillance authorities and manage compliance. The AR’s full name and EU address must appear in the EU Declaration of Conformity and on the product’s CE marking or, for digital services, in the app’s “About” section, download page or accompanying documentation.

Sustaining Compliance as a Competitive Advantage

Beyond the initial deadline, organisations should maintain updated technical files, monitor standard revisions, schedule periodic audits, and foster continuous dialogue with end-users and regulators. By treating June 2025 as the start of an ongoing accessibility journey, businesses not only fulfill legal obligations but also demonstrate leadership in inclusivity.