A German law upholding digital equality & access for all
The Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG)
What is BFSG?
The Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz, or BFSG, is Germany’s national legislation that aligns with the EU web accessibility directive (EAA). It was enacted in 2022 and came into effect with mandated compliance by June 28, 2025, which is the same enforcement date as the EAA. It addresses digital barriers that impede access for people with disabilities in the online realm. It focuses on accessible infrastructure and digital content to foster equal opportunity, support individuals with disabilities in navigating daily life with more freedom and ease, and build a more inclusive society. Businesses active in the European Union must ensure BFSG conformance, or they risk fines, lawsuits, reputational damage, and loss of customer base.
Aligned with the EAA to ensure fairness & inclusion for everyone
Since Germany is the powerhouse of the EU single market, with its giant industrial base, export capacity, purchasing power, and outsized role in economic decision-making, compliance with BFSG is a must for all organizations operating within the European digital domain. Just like the UK’s website accessibility law and the EN 301 549 standard, it adheres to WCAG 2.1 Level AA for web content to guarantee universal access and opportunity for 450+ million consumers within the EU digital world. Its primary beneficiaries are:
- All people with digital disabilities: This includes people living with motor disabilities, hearing, visual, and cognitive impairments, and all those using assistive technologies to aid their digital experience.
- Senior users: People whose advanced years have led to age-related accessibility challenges that affect their online user experience will enjoy more inclusive digital environments and services.
- Consumers in general: All service users can benefit from BFSG compliance and alignment with the EAA and global WCAG standards through more usable and standardized digital interfaces.
The core purpose behind compliance with the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) is to eliminate barriers that hinder access to digital platforms, apps, public services, including education, healthcare, transportation, banking, commerce, entertainment, and more.
Scope & reach of the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG)
Public & private sector compliance
The BFSG applies to both government platforms and websites as well as private businesses to ensure widespread accessibility improvement across the German and EU digital space.
Digital accessibility requirements
All websites, mobile applications, and digital platforms offered to German citizens must ensure an accessible design and interface for people with disabilities, including visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments.
Infrastructure modifications
With an all-encompassing jurisdiction, the law requires the implementation of accessible infrastructure to online public portals, including transportation, communication, healthcare, education, e-commerce, fintech, and the hospitality industry.
Core benefits of the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG)
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01
Ensures access to key public services & infrastructure
Following in EAA’s footsteps, the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz promotes inclusivity by mandating equal access to essential digital spaces for all individuals living with disabilities.
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02
Fosters inclusion by promoting accessible websites & apps
By assuring access to information and services in the digital environment, BFSG encourages innovation in designing accessible products, services, and infrastructure, benefiting society as a whole, and not just those directly affected by disability challenges.
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03
Improves quality of life, UX & brand reputation
The Accessibility Strengthening Act enriches daily life for a large segment of the population living with disabilities and seniors by removing barriers that limit their independence and opportunities for participation in society.
Frequently
Asked
Questions
Does BFSG require a specific timeline for compliance?
Yes, organizations were mandated to ensure compliance with the BFSG by June 28, 2025. This is the same date as EAA and marks the official deadline for companies to ensure that their websites and services meet WCAG-aligned accessibility requirements. Businesses launching new webpages, products, or services are obligated to comply immediately upon release. In addition, existing platforms and services will need to be updated in line with the Accessibility Strengthening Act by the same deadline.
Are there any exemptions under BFSG?
Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz does provide certain exemptions for the more stringent accessibility requirements, primarily to very small businesses. This includes micro-enterprises that employ fewer than 10 people and those with an annual turnover or balance sheet that doesn’t exceed €2 million.
However, even exempt organizations must comply with the basic accessibility standards, and their exemption must be documented to be considered valid. Keep in mind that pre-existing content on webpages that predates the June 28, 2025 deadline is considered ‘grandfathered’ or exempt unless/until updated.
What happens if a company does not comply with BFSG?
Failure to ensure compliance with the Accessibility Strengthening Act can result in harsh penalties, including market access restrictions and substantial fines (incl. 5% of global turnover). Failure to meet WCAG accessibility standards can also lead regulators to implement other enforcement actions, such as mandatory designs to ensure accessibility guidelines are met. Non-compliant organizations also risk reputational damage that can tarnish their hard-earned reputation, shrink their customer base and market share, and significantly hurt their bottom line.
Who enforces the BFSG in Germany?
The enforcement of the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) is managed by several government bodies. The Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS) plays a central role in overseeing compliance with EAA-aligned BFSG provisions. Additionally, regional authorities and industry-specific regulators may have a hand in enforcing the legislation, especially when it comes to public sector services in their jurisdiction.
Who can help my organization ensure compliance with the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG)?
Whether you’re looking to shield your organization from unwanted legal complications, costly fines, or negative user perception, includeUs is the reliable partner you’re looking for. Our team specializes in digital inclusion, accessible design and content, and conformance with WCAG-aligned laws in the global online landscape.
Our combination of in-depth manual audits and the best of digital compliance tools will position your organization as a forward-thinking entity that cares about user experiences, equitable participation in online environments, and stays proactive in the quest to maintain compliance with key accessibility laws, including BFSG, EAA, GDPR, ADA, Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations 2018, and more. Get in touch with us to schedule your free consultation today and ensure equal digital rights and opportunities for all!