Did you know that your website or online shop will soon need to be accessible? The reason for this is the Barrier-Free Strengthening Act (BFSG), which sets binding requirements for digital offerings. As an experienced team at euphorika, we have already successfully adapted several websites to these requirements and are also happy to assist you with our expertise.

What does the law mean, what deadlines are there, and what should one pay attention to?

Accessibility is not only fair, but will soon be mandatory. The BFSG implements the EU Directive (EU) 2019/882, also known as the European Accessibility Act. The goal is for all people, regardless of limitations, to be able to easily use digital services.

The best part? An accessible website has benefits for everyone:

• Better user experience: Clear structures and simple operation make your site more accessible to everyone.

• More reach: You reach more customers, including those with disabilities.

No legal issues: With an accessible website, you are legally on the safe side.

Who does the law concern?

In short: almost everyone. The BFSG applies to public institutions and companies that offer digital products and services. These include:

• Websites and online shops

• Contact forms and appointment booking systems

• Apps and digital kiosk systems

Exception: Private as well as purely business (B2B) offers, however, are not subject to the Barrier-Free Strengthening Act. Even small businesses with fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover of less than 2 million euros can breathe a sigh of relief - they are exempt.

The most important deadlines at a glance

Mark the. June 28, 2025 Fixed in the calendar! From then on, all new digital offers must be accessible.

For existing pages and systems, there is a bit more time, but you shouldn't wait nonetheless. In 2026, things will really get started: The Authorities are monitoring. And those who do not conform must expect penalties.

What does "barrierefrei" mean?

Barrier-free sounds technical at first, but it's not that complicated. The requirements are based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA.

What does that mean specifically? Here are a few examples:

• Alternative texts and contrasts: Images need descriptions, and texts must be easily readable - even for people with visual impairments.

• Usability: Everything should work via keyboard and screen reader. Yes, even the dropdown menu!

• Error messages: If someone fills out a form incorrectly, the error message must be understandable.

• Compatibility: The website must be compatible with all devices and assistive tools (e.g. screen readers).

And what about forms and booking systems?

Here often lurk the biggest barriers. But don't worry, we know the tricks:

• Input fields: Every field needs a clear label - otherwise they are invisible to screen readers.

• CalendarSure, please provide me with the text you would like me to translate into English. Booking tools must be operable without a mouse and touchscreen.

• Feedback: Users need clear feedback when they have entered something incorrectly.

What would happen if you did nothing?

Honestly, it's not worth ignoring the issue. Those who do not comply with legal requirements risk:

• Fines: Depending on the severity of the violation.

• Legal disputes: Barriers could lead to a lawsuit.

• Negatives Image: No one wants headlines like "Company XY discriminates against people with disabilities."

We are from euphoric We are happy to help you!

Do you think your website could use an accessibility check? Perfect, because that's exactly what we do! We at euphoric We are an experienced media agency and have already thoroughly tested many digital offerings - and made them accessible.

Whether it's small optimizations or a complete relaunch, we are here for you. Let's work together to ensure that your website is not only compliant with the law, but also accessible to everyone.

Our tip: Start now instead of making adjustments later.

The sooner you start, the more relaxed the implementation will be. Get in touch with us - we will review your site and support you in meeting the requirements. And don't worry, the whole process is completely straightforward.