Understanding the Difference Between EN 301 549, the European Accessibility Act (EAA), and WCAG
- Access Heroes
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
As the June 28, 2025 compliance deadline approaches, European businesses are hearing a lot about digital accessibility standards—especially terms like EN 301 549, the European Accessibility Act (EAA), and WCAG 2.2. If you're confused about how these fit together, you're not alone.
In this post, we'll break down the role of each standard and law, and explain how they impact your website or app.
🧩 What is WCAG?
WCAG stands for the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). These guidelines outline how to make digital content more accessible to people with disabilities.
Key points:
WCAG 2.2 is the most current version (as of 2023).
It is organized around four key principles:POUR: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust.
Each version includes levels of conformance: A (basic), AA (recommended), AAA (enhanced).
It’s not a law itself, but is widely adopted by laws around the world as the standard to meet.
Think of WCAG as:
📚 The technical “how-to” guide for accessibility.
🧑⚖️ What is the European Accessibility Act (EAA)?
The European Accessibility Act is a directive passed by the European Union in 2019 to create a harmonized set of accessibility requirements across the EU.
Key points:
Applies to digital products and services, including websites, apps, e-commerce, banking, transportation, and more.
Requires compliance with accessibility standards by June 28, 2025.
Covers both public and private sector businesses, especially B2C companies.
Enforcement and penalties vary by country, but can include fines, lawsuits, and exclusion from public contracts.
Think of EAA as:
📜 The law that says you must be accessible by 2025.
📄 What is EN 301 549?
EN 301 549 is the European technical standard that explains how to meet accessibility requirements under laws like the EAA. It was created by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI).
Key points:
It references WCAG 2.1 AA (and now 2.2 AA) for web and mobile content.
Goes beyond just websites and apps—it also covers software, hardware, and documents.
Acts as a bridge between WCAG guidelines and legal compliance in the EU.
Think of EN 301 549 as:
🛠 The technical standard businesses must follow to meet EAA rules.
🧭 How Do They Work Together?
Here’s how these three elements connect:
EAA sets the legal requirement to be accessible.
EN 301 549 defines what products/services must be accessible and refers to…
WCAG as the technical benchmark to follow for websites and apps.
Element | Role | Applies to |
WCAG 2.2 | Technical guidelines | Global web content |
EN 301 549 | EU technical standard | Web, mobile, software, hardware |
EAA | EU law (directive) | Businesses serving EU customers |
🛡️ What Should Your Business Do Now?
If your business operates in the EU and offers digital services or products, you should:
Audit your website and mobile apps against WCAG 2.2 AA standards.
Use EN 301 549 as your reference document for meeting EAA requirements.
Take action now to avoid penalties after June 28, 2025.
✅ Get Help With Compliance (for Free)
Navigating accessibility compliance doesn't have to be overwhelming. Our non-profit offers free Zoom consultations for EU businesses. We’ll help you understand what’s required, review your website, and recommend simple, effective tools (like accessibility overlays) to get compliant—before the deadline.
Final Thoughts
Digital accessibility isn't just about legal compliance—it's about inclusion. By following WCAG, EN 301 549, and the EAA, your business can reach more people and create a better online experience for everyone.
Got questions? We’re here to help.
#WebAccessibility #DigitalInclusion #AccessibilityMatters #InclusiveDesign #A11y #WCAG #WCAG22 #EN301549 #EAACompliance
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