Website accessibility. What you need to know by 2025.
From 2025, website accessibility will be mandatory for many companies. Find out why accessible websites are important, which requirements apply and how you can make your website accessible with our help.
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 comes into force on 28 June 2025. There is a transitional period until 2030 for existing products.
Affected companies: All B2C companies must make their websites accessible. Pure B2B companies are only not obliged if their websites are clearly and recognisably aimed exclusively at other companies.
Exceptions: Micro-enterprises with a maximum of 9 employees, an annual turnover and an annual balance sheet total of no more than 2 million euros each are exempt from the obligation.
Requirements: Websites, web apps and online shops must fulfil 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: Av oid 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, easy 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 offer services directly to end consumers will be obliged to make their websites accessible. Pure B2B companies only have to fulfil this obligation if their websites are clearly aimed at other companies. Micro-enterprises that employ fewer than 10 people and have an annual turnover and an annual balance sheet total of no more than €2 million each are exempt from this obligation.
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, despite criticism, are often advertised as easy to integrate. 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.