The German Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) for Websites: What You Need to Know Now

Digital accessibility is no longer just a nice-to-have – with the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) it becomes mandatory. Companies operating websites or apps are now responsible for providing unrestricted access to all users – regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments.

In this article, we explain what the law covers, why it matters, and how you can make your website accessible.

What is the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG)?

The Accessibility Strengthening Act was introduced to transpose Directive (EU) 2019/882, known as the European Accessibility Act (EAA), into national law. The law's goal is to remove barriers for people with disabilities in digital products and services.

Starting in 2025, the law makes accessibility a legal requirement for websites and mobile applications in many industries. It applies in particular to:

• Online shops

• Banks and financial service providers

• Travel providers

• E-books and digital content

• Consumer electronics with a digital user interface

Why does the law matter?

The BFSG ensures that digital content and services are accessible to people with disabilities. This affects, for example, people with:

• Visual or hearing impairments

• Motor impairments

• Cognitive or language-related barriers

The law promotes social inclusion and creates fair competition by ensuring digital equality for all users.

What requirements does the BFSG place on websites?

The law is based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1). These guidelines define the technical and design standards for making websites accessible.

Core BFSG requirements for websites:

• Perceivability: Content must be accessible to all senses, e.g. through alt text for images, subtitles for videos, and clear contrasts.

• Operability: Navigation must be possible using a mouse as well as a keyboard or screen reader.

• Understandability: Text and content must be easy to understand and clearly structured.

• Robustness: Content must be compatible with various assistive technologies such as screen readers.

Technical audits and standards

To comply with the BFSG, it is recommended to conduct regular technical audits, e.g.:

• WCAG tests

• Usability tests with people with disabilities

• Automated accessibility tools

What deadlines apply to companies?

The BFSG takes effect on June 28, 2025. From that point on, all new digital offerings must meet the requirements. Transition periods exist for existing websites, giving companies enough time to make the necessary adjustments.

What are the benefits of accessible web development?

1. Larger target audience

Around 16% of the EU population lives with a disability. An accessible website reaches this user group and strengthens your market presence.

2. Better usability for everyone

Accessibility improves the user experience for all visitors. Clear structures, intuitive navigation, and clearly visible content benefit everyone.

3. Improved search engine optimization (SEO)

Accessible websites are favored by search engines because they contain well-structured content and metadata. This boosts your visibility and traffic.

4. Legal certainty

With an accessible website, you avoid potential fines or legal disputes.

How do you implement accessibility?

1. Analysis of the current website

Run an accessibility test to identify existing weaknesses. Tools like WAVE, axe DevTools or Accessibility Insights are ideal for this.

2. Implementing WCAG standards

Follow the WCAG 2.1 guidelines to make content more accessible. This includes:

• Alt text for all images

• Using semantic HTML for a clean structure

• High-contrast text and colors

3. Involving experts

Professional agencies for accessible web development or accessibility consultants can help you with implementation.

Conclusion

The German Accessibility Strengthening Act for Websites is a significant step toward greater digital inclusion. Companies that embrace accessibility early benefit from a wider reach, better usability, and legal certainty.

Let's make your website accessible together and implement the BFSG requirements. Contact us today for a free consultation!