Everything you need to know about the European Digital Accessibility Act 2025

A website shouldn’t just look good. It should work for everyone. At Mars, we believe that’s a given. But in reality, that’s still not always the case. For millions of people with a disability, the internet is still difficult to access.

That’s why, starting 28 June 2025, a new European law will require certain websites and webshops to be digitally accessible. The digital accessibility act is part of the European accessibility act (EAA) and ensures that people with visual, auditory or motor impairments can find their way online too.

In this blog, you’ll read:

• how you can comply
• what the act actually means
• whether it applies to your organisation

What is the Digital Accessibility Act?

The digital accessibility act is the Dutch implementation of the European accessibility act (EAA), a directive introduced in 2019. It requires companies that provide digital services to consumers to make their websites and apps accessible to everyone.

In practice, this means websites must be usable by people with disabilities — including those who are visually impaired, can’t use a mouse or rely on screen readers.

Who is affected by this law?

The law applies to organisations that offer digital services to consumers. So is your company affected by this? Companies that should use this are:

Required to comply:

• Webshops and other B2C sites
• Financial platforms (like online banking)
• Streaming services
• Ticket sales and e-readers
• (Semi-)government and public institutions

Not required:

• Micro-enterprises (fewer than 10 employees and less than €2 million in annual revenue)
• Companies that only serve other businesses (B2B)

Not sure if the rules apply to you? Then now is a good time to find out – and to start taking steps toward a more accessible website. We can always think along if you are not sure.

How can you comply?

The law doesn’t prescribe specific techniques, but in practice, the WCAG guidelines (version 2.1 or 2.2, level A and AA) are considered the standard. These help make your website accessible in a way that works for everyone.

Some examples include:

• Sufficient colour contrast between text and background
• Keyboard navigation (no mouse needed)
• Clear structure with headings and logical flow
• Alt text for images
• Readable content without unnecessary distractions

Note: some requirements, like colour contrast, might conflict with your current brand style. We can advise you and help you find the right balance. Full compliance isn’t always feasible without adjustments, but every improvement makes a big difference to your users.

Why accessibility matters – even if you’re not legally required

Even if you don’t fall under the law (yet), working on accessibility is still a smart move. It’s not only a social responsibility – it also has real business benefits:

• Better for your users – everyone can navigate your site more easily
• Better for SEO – search engines appreciate clear structure and semantics
• Better for your brand – you show that you’re conscious and inclusive

An accessible website feels better for all visitors and strengthens your online position.

How we can help

At Mars, we build WordPress websites that don’t just look premium — they actually work for everyone. So everyone can enjoy your website as they should. 

What can we do? 

• We check your site against WCAG 2.2 (levels A and AA)
• We help you implement meaningful improvements

Important to know: some changes, like improving colour contrast, may require updates to your brand style. We always consider this in our advice — respectfully and in line with your visual identity.

Together, we’ll make sure your website works for everyone. Accessible. User-friendly. Want to know what we can do for you? Feel free to contact us via our website or through our projectmanagement tool Monday.com.