What is the EN 301 549?
While its name may sound abstract and technical, the EN 301 549 standard is pretty straightforward. It’s the European standard that defines accessibility requirements for information and communication technology (ICT) products and services. The EN 301 549 accessibility requirements act as a set of operating instructions on how to ensure compliance with the EU web accessibility directive, the EAA, mandating digital access to people with disabilities across online platforms, apps, and websites.
What are the key need-to-know points of EN 301 549?
Whether you’re a vendor paying close attention to VPAT accessibility or a data processing company looking to ensure GDPR compliance, EN 301 549 requirements are key European standards that concern all businesses working in hardware, software, mobile applications, and digital documents. As of June 28, 2025, the EN 301 549 enforcement date, most organizations operating in the common market will have to take notice of this set of technical guidelines, including:
- Information and communications technology (ICT) products, such as business software, mobile applications, office hardware, and assistive technologies that must meet accessibility requirements for all users.
- Product-related services, like customer support platforms, cloud-based solutions, and digital subscription services that rely on ICT products to deliver core functionality.
- Websites, including e-commerce platforms, government portals, educational resources, and corporate sites that provide information or enable transactions for the public.
The EN 301 549 accessibility standard includes the full text of WCAG 2.1, which is globally accepted as the foundation for fair and equal digital accessibility and inclusion.
Main Areas of Focus
Accessibility of ICT products & services
Acting as a how-to guide for the European Accessibility Act, EN 301 549 ensures ICT deliverables are accessible to all users by addressing barriers in software, hardware, websites, apps, and documents, with an emphasis on usability, clarity, and inclusivity in the digital environment.
Compatibility with assistive technologies
EN 301 549 standard requires that ICT solutions work smoothly with assistive technologies like screen readers, magnifiers, and speech recognition software to ensure interoperability and allow users to access essential functions without impediments.
Conformance with WCAG 2.1 Level AA
EN 301 549 incorporates the WCAG 2.1 document in its entirety, mandating accessible web and mobile content through guidelines on text alternatives, adaptable layouts, color contrast, keyboard operability, and consistent navigation for an inclusive user experience.
Significance of the EN 301 549 accessibility standard
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01
Minimize legal liability
Running afoul of EN 301 549 requirements puts you under constant risk of unnecessary and avoidable court proceedings that can cause a significant burden to the bottom line and everyday functioning of your organization.
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02
Broaden your customer reach
Failing to adopt the EN 301 549 standard can’t alienate a significant number of potential users, customers, and clients, with as many as 100 million Europeans struggling with functional challenges in the digital environment.
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03
Safeguard your brand profile
Organisations that fail to take EN 301 549 seriously may take a hit to their brand reputation due to a perceived lack of care for the overall user experience and inclusivity. One bad review or social media post may cause irreparable damage.
Frequently
Asked
Questions
Is EN 301 549 mandatory?
In short, yes. As the European accessibility standard for ICT products and services, it is mandatory for public sector organizations as it ties into the EU Web Accessibility Directive and the European Accessibility Act (EAA). While private companies are not always legally bound to follow EN 301 549 standards, unless they are providing services to the public sector, many businesses adopt it to improve inclusivity, foster positive brand reputation, and meet procurement needs.
Who needs to comply with EN 301 549 requirements?
Compliance with EN 301 549 accessibility requirements is required for all public bodies across the EU, including government agencies, municipalities, and publicly funded institutions. Companies doing business with the public sector organisations in areas like defense and security, infrastructure and services, technology, public-private partnerships (PPPs), banking and insurance, e-commerce, and telecommunications must align with specifications outlined in the EN 301 549.
Does EN 301 549 apply outside the EU?
Strictly speaking, the EN 301 549 accessibility standard is not legally binding outside of the European Union. However, organizations based outside the EU often choose to follow it since it’s aligned with global WCAG digital accessibility rules. Some countries, like Australia and Canada, have adopted this framework, while many others have used it as the baseline for writing their own laws. If your company is providing services to EU users or wants to bid on EU contracts, you’ll have to make sure that your operations adhere to EN 301 549 requirements.
How do I check compliance with EN 301 549 standards?
You’ll have to turn to professionals who offer accessibility services that assess compliance, typically through:
- Accessibility audits that use tools and expert reviews to test against EN 301 549 standards.
- Automated testing tools that detect issues such as missing alt text or poor color contrast.
- Manual testing that evaluates navigation, keyboard access, and compatibility with assistive technology.
- Accessibility statements that are often legally required for public sector websites and apps in the EU.
Who can help my organization meet EN 301 549 accessibility requirements?
Whether your business is performing strongly in the EU common market or you’re planning a smart entry strategy to position your brand, includeUs can help your company avoid the damaging consequences related to a lack of accessibility and inclusion. We’ll make sure that your operations are in line with the EN 301 549 accessibility standard, EAA, and global WCAG guidelines.
Reach out to us for a free consultation on how you can avoid risks, provide a functional and operable experience to all, and ensure full compliance with ever-changing accessibility requirements. Contact us today!