Accessible websites and apps under the BFSG.
Since 28 June 2025 the German Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) requires many digital services for consumers to be accessible. We audit websites, shops and apps, fix what blocks people, and build new software that is accessible from the start.
Rules last checked:
Who the BFSG applies to
The BFSG implements the European Accessibility Act (EU) 2019/882. It covers products and services for consumers, including:
- Online shops and other e-commerce services, including ordering and booking on websites and in apps
- Online banking and payment services
- E-books and e-book software
- Telecommunications services
- Websites, apps and ticketing of passenger transport services
Services offered only to businesses are not covered. Micro-enterprises that provide services, with fewer than 10 employees and at most €2 million in annual turnover or balance sheet total, are exempt from the requirements for services.
What accessible means
In practice the reference is the harmonised standard EN 301 549, which incorporates WCAG level AA. Content must be perceivable, operable, understandable and robust: enough colour contrast, full keyboard operation, text alternatives for images, clear forms and error messages, and support for screen readers. Covered services must also publish an accessibility statement.
The market surveillance authority (MLBF) can order fixes and, as a last resort, prohibit a service. Violations can be fined up to €100,000.
What we do
- Audits against WCAG 2.2 AA with automated tests and manual checks (keyboard, screen reader, zoom, contrast)
- A prioritised list of issues with concrete fixes
- Fixing the issues in your existing code, or rebuilding components
- Accessibility statements under the BFSG
- New websites and apps that are accessible from the start
This website
We apply the same standards to our own site. Based on our self-assessment it meets WCAG 2.2 AA, as described in our accessibility statement.
Frequently asked questions
Does the BFSG apply to my B2B website?
Usually not. The BFSG covers services for consumers. A website that only presents your company, or sells only to businesses, is generally out of scope. If consumers can conclude contracts on it, for example order or book, it is likely covered.
Is my small business exempt?
Micro-enterprises that provide services, with fewer than 10 employees and at most €2 million annual turnover or balance sheet total, do not have to meet the requirements for services. The exemption does not apply to products.
Which standard do we have to meet?
The BFSG refers to harmonised standards; for websites and apps that is EN 301 549, which is based on WCAG level AA. We test against WCAG 2.2 AA, which includes all WCAG 2.1 criteria.
What happens if a covered service is not accessible?
The market surveillance authority can require fixes and, as a last resort, prohibit the service. Fines of up to €100,000 are possible.
Do you also fix the issues?
Yes. We fix issues in your existing code, or rebuild components where that is quicker, and then test again.
This page summarises the rules as of the date above. It is not legal advice.
Is your website
accessible?
Send us the address. Within one working day we will tell you what an audit would cover.
Contact us