EU Accessibility Act: Key Deadline, Authorised Representatives & 2025–2030 Compliance

June 28, 2025: Accessibility Requirements Take Effect

From June 28, 2025, every new hardware product (e.g., ATMs, ticket machines, smartphones) and digital offering (desktop software, mobile apps, cloud services) covered by the EU Accessibility Act must meet the harmonised EN 301 549 standard. Organisations must integrate accessibility checks into their design cycle, complete both automated and manual testing, and update their EU Declaration of Conformity to reflect compliance with accessibility criteria.

Five-Year Transition Window

Items already on the market before the 2025 deadline enjoy a grace period until June 28, 2030. Existing service agreements can run until their natural expiry date—no later than mid-2030. Companies claiming “fundamental change” or “disproportionate burden” exemptions need to document their rationale and obtain sign-off from the appropriate national authority.

Strategic Roadmap for 2025–2030

Effective long-term compliance hinges on ongoing action:

• Engage certified accessibility auditors or Notified Bodies for gap analyses against EN 301 549.
• Build “accessibility by design” into development processes with user-testing involving people with disabilities.
• Invest in staff training and appoint internal accessibility leads to oversee policies and procurement.
• Ensure all documentation, packaging and support channels are available in accessible formats (e.g., Braille, large-print, screen-reader–friendly).
• Include accessibility requirements in supplier contracts and perform regular vendor assessments.

Designating an EU Authorised Representative

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

Maintaining Compliance as a Competitive Edge

Beyond the initial deadline, organisations should keep their technical files current, track updates to EN 301 549, schedule periodic audits and maintain open dialogue with end-users and regulators. By viewing mid-2025 as the start of a continuous accessibility journey, businesses not only fulfill legal requirements but also strengthen their reputation for inclusivity.