What are the requirements for website accessibility in 2025?

Digital accessibility will become a legal obligation in 2025 that companies cannot avoid. Implementing accessible websites is not only a matter of legal compliance, but also an important step toward inclusion and user-friendliness. In this article, we highlight the requirements for accessible websites in 2025, the legal basis, and the necessary technical adjustments.

What does the accessibility requirement mean for websites from 2025 onwards?

On June 28, 2025, the Accessibility Enhancement Act (BFSG) will come into force, which aims to ensure that digital services are accessible to everyone. Companies that offer digital services are obliged to make their websites accessible. This primarily affects e-commerce providers, banks, telecommunications companies, and many other industries.

The Accessibility Enhancement Act (BFSG) and its requirements

The BFSG transposes the European Accessibility Act (EAA) into national law. It stipulates that digital products and services must meet certain accessibility requirements. These include accessible websites, mobile applications, and online services.

What legal requirements apply to accessible websites

The legal requirements include:

Compliance with WCAG 2.1 guidelines at level AA. Clear and understandable content that is easy to grasp. Compatibility with assistive technologies such as screen readers. Alternative text for images and media for better comprehensibility. Keyboard navigation for users with motor impairments.

You can find out more on our Accessibility Consulting website.

What are the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1?

WCAG 2.1 are the internationally recognized guidelines for digital accessibility. They are based on the four principles of perceivability, operability, understandability, and robustness. Companies must ensure that their digital content meets these criteria.

Test your website with our WCAG scanner.

What technical adjustments are necessary for digital accessibility?

The following technical adjustments are necessary to ensure a barrier-free website:

Use of semantic HTML for better content structuring.
Implementation of barrier-free forms with correct labeling.
Text alternatives for visual content such as images or videos.
Simple navigation and clear website structure.
Color contrasts and font sizes that are legible.

Our Website Accessibility Widget helps you implement accessibility dynamically.

How can companies adapt their websites by June 28, 2025?

Companies should start implementing changes now to avoid penalties and competitive disadvantages. The first step is to conduct an accessibility audit to identify existing deficiencies and derive concrete measures.

What role do market surveillance authorities play in enforcement?

Market surveillance authorities are responsible for checking compliance with legal requirements. They can request companies to remedy deficiencies and impose sanctions in the event of repeated violations.

What are the legal consequences of non-compliance?

Companies that do not meet accessibility requirements risk:

Warnings and fines from authorities.
Reputational damage, as accessibility is an important factor for brand image and customer loyalty.
Legal action, which can lead to further financial burdens.

Act now!

Digital accessibility requirements will become mandatory in 2025. Companies should not hesitate and should take early action to ensure legal compliance.

Let our experts support you! Check your website for accessibility with an accessibility audit and obtain accessibility certification for your digital presence.