Website accessibility. What you need to know by 2025.
The importance of accessible websites
An accessible website takes into account the different needs and abilities of all users and ensures that content is accessible to all in an appropriate and effective way. This applies to all types of websites, including corporate websites, web shops, web apps and simple landing pages.
Why accessibility?
Social responsibility: An accessible website enables people with disabilities to participate fully in digital life.
Legal requirements: Public authorities and many companies are required by law to make their websites accessible.
Economic benefits: Accessibility increases the reach and usability of a website, resulting in a larger target group and potentially higher sales.
Accessibility from 2025: The legal requirements.
From 28 June 2025, the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) will come into force in Germany and implement the European directive of the European Accessibility Act (EAA). Here are the most important points:
Date of application: the law will come into force on 28 June 2025.
Affected companies: All B2C companies that provide digital services - for example via websites, online shops, booking systems or apps - must make their offerings accessible by 28 June 2025 at the latest. Pure B2B companies are only exempt if their websites are clearly and exclusively aimed at business customers (e.g. through login barriers or clear language in the offering).
Micro-enterprises that offer digital services are exempt if they:
- employ fewer than 10 employees, and
- generate a maximum annual turnover or balance sheet total of 2 million euros.
Important: This exemption only applies to services. Companies - including micro-enterprises - that sell certain products (e.g. smartphones, tablets, e-book readers, self-service terminals) are also subject to the accessibility obligation, regardless of their size.
Exceptions: Micro-enterprises that provide digital services are exempt from the accessibility obligation if they employ fewer than 10 employees and have an annual turnover or annual balance sheet total of no more than EUR 2 million.
Please note: The exemption does not apply if the company sells or distributes the affected products mentioned above.
Requirements: Websites, web apps and online shops must comply with the requirements of the European standard EN 301 549, which is based on level AA of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
Consequences of non-compliance: Companies that do not comply with the accessibility requirements are informed and have a deadline for revision. Non-compliance may result in penalties, including suspension of business operations and fines of up to €100,000.
Checklist for accessible websites
Our rough checklist will help you to ensure the accessibility of your website:
- Text alternatives for images and multimedia elements: Add alternative text to every image and multimedia element.
- Clear and easy-to-understand language: Use simple and understandable language.
- High-contrast colour combinations: Use colours with high contrast, e.g. dark text on a light background.
- Navigability with the keyboard: Make sure that the website is fully navigable with the keyboard.
- Structuring and organisation: Use a clear and consistent structure with headings and paragraphs.
- Font legibility: Choose fonts that are easy to read.
- Avoid flickering and flashing: Avoid flickering or flashing elements.
- Videos and audio files with subtitles: Provide subtitles and transcriptions for videos and audio files.
- Device independence: Optimise your website for different devices and screen readers.
- Regular testing: Continuously test your website for accessibility.
What exactly does website accessibility mean?
Website accessibility means that all people, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, can use the content and functions of a website without any problems. This includes, for example, the provision of text alternatives for images, simple navigation using the keyboard, high-contrast colour schemes and the avoidance of flickering elements. The aim is to provide unrestricted access for all users.
Which companies will be obliged to provide accessibility from 2025?
From 28 June 2025, all B2C companies that provide digital services directly to end consumers - for example via websites, online shops or booking portals - will be obliged to make their services accessible.
Pure B2B companies are only exempt from this obligation if their websites are clearly and exclusively aimed at other companies - for example through access restrictions or a clear content focus.
Micro-enterprises that offer digital services are exempt from the obligation if they employ fewer than 10 people and do not exceed either an annual turnover or an annual balance sheet total of no more than 2 million euros.
Please note: Companies - including micro-enterprises - that sell certain products such as smartphones, tablets or e-book readers must fulfil the requirements regardless of their size.
What accessibility standards must be met?
The accessibility of websites must fulfil the requirements of the European standard EN 301 549, which is based on level AA of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). In Germany, the Barrier-free Information Technology Ordinance (BITV) also refers to this standard and contains additional requirements, such as the use of German Sign Language (DGS) and plain language.
What happens if a website does not comply with accessibility requirements?
If a website does not comply with accessibility requirements, the company concerned is first informed and given a deadline for revision. If this deadline is not met, there is a risk of legal consequences. These can include the temporary suspension of business operations or fines of up to 100,000 euros.
How can I test my website for accessibility?
There are various tools and methods for testing the accessibility of your website. The most common include automatic testing tools such as the WAVE Accessibility Checker or the Axe browser extension. In addition, manual tests should be carried out by navigating the website using a screen reader and only the keyboard. As an agency, we are happy to support you in testing and customising your website to ensure that all accessibility standards are met. We offer comprehensive services, from the initial check and implementation of the necessary adaptations to the continuous monitoring and optimisation of your website.
What is the problem with overlay solutions?
Barriers on the Internet are mostly man-made, and the correct use of HTML code can enable complete accessibility. However, automated overlay solutions are criticised. The website overlaysdontwork.com highlights the problems of these approaches.
The BIK BITV test advises against the use of automated software solutions, and over 700 experts support the Overlay Fact Sheet initiative, which speaks out against such software. The European Disability Forum and the International Association of Accessibility Professionals also emphasise that overlays are not a reliable solution.
There are some heavily promoted overlay solutions that are often advertised as easy to integrate despite criticism. Joe Dolson, an expert in accessible web design, warns that no plug-ins can fully fulfil accessibility requirements.
We therefore recommend relying on tried and tested solutions that have been deliberately implemented. Accessibility is complex and requires careful planning and implementation. Users customise their operating systems to their needs, which means that overlay solutions are often superfluous.
Get in touch with us.
It's time to design or optimise your website for accessibility. With the right measures, you can ensure that your website is accessible to everyone. An accessible website is not only a legal obligation, but also a sign of social responsibility and a competitive advantage. We will be happy to provide you with further information or support. Take advantage of our expertise to make your website fit for 2025.