Everything about EN 301 549 and WCAG 2.2 in one summary

Digital accessibility is becoming mandatory. Learn what EN 301 549, WCAG 2.2, and the German Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) mean for your company and how you can act now.

Why digital accessibility is becoming mandatory now

The digital world evolves rapidly, but not everyone can use it equally. People with disabilities often face challenges when it comes to using websites or apps. This is exactly where standards such as EN 301 549 and WCAG 2.2 come in. They define requirements for digital accessibility and are anchored in law through the German Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG).

In this article we explain what lies behind these standards and why they are particularly relevant for companies right now.

What is EN 301 549?

EN 301 549 is the European standard for digital accessibility. It defines the requirements that websites, apps, software, and digital devices must meet so that they are usable for people with disabilities.

This standard is strongly based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) but goes further by also covering hardware (e.g. ATMs or ticket machines) and document formats such as PDFs.

Who must comply with EN 301 549?

Originally, EN 301 549 applied only to public bodies, but with the implementation of the German Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG), many private companies will also be affected from June 28, 2025.

These include, among others:

• Online shops

• Banks and financial service providers

• Telecommunications providers

• E-book and streaming services

• Passenger transport companies

Companies that provide digital products and services must ensure that their offerings can be used without barriers.

WCAG 2.2: the foundation for digital accessibility

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the international standard for accessible websites. The current version, WCAG 2.2, published in October 2023, adds new criteria to the previous version WCAG 2.1.

The four principles of WCAG 2.2

For a website or app to be accessible, it must be:

• Perceivable (e.g. alternative text for images, legible font sizes)

• Operable (e.g. navigation possible without a mouse)

• Understandable (e.g. clear language, predictable navigation)

• Robust (compatible with screen readers and other assistive technologies)

The German Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG): what does it mean for companies?

The German Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) implements EU Directive 2019/882 and ensures that digital offerings in Germany also have to be accessible.

What does that mean in concrete terms?

From June 28, 2025, companies must ensure that their digital products and services are accessible. Those who do not comply risk warnings, fines, and customer losses.

Who is affected?

• All companies that offer digital services or products

• Especially heavily regulated sectors such as e-commerce, banking, telecommunications, and transport

• Providers of software, apps, and online platforms

Who is exempt?

Micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees and annual revenue below €2 million are exempt from the obligation.

Why you should act now

If your company offers digital products or services, now is the right time to engage with EN 301 549 and WCAG 2.2. An accessible website means not only legal security, but also:

• Better usability for everyone

• Greater reach and SEO benefits

• Positive brand image and customer satisfaction