European Accessibility Act (EAA) in Portugal – Simple Explanation
What is the EAA?
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is an EU law designed to make everyday products and services more accessible for people with disabilities. In Portugal, it ensures that businesses and public organizations remove barriers so everyone—including those with visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive impairments—can easily use digital and physical services.
Key Requirements in Simple Terms
The EAA in Portugal applies to:
- Digital Accessibility – Websites, mobile apps, and online services must follow WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards. This means:
- Text must be readable (good color contrast, resizable fonts).
- Images need descriptions (alt text).
- Videos require captions or audio descriptions.
- Websites should work with screen readers and keyboard navigation. - Customer Support– Businesses must offer accessible help, such as email or live chat, for people who can’t use phone services.
- Accessible Documents – Information (like PDFs or user guides) must be available in formats like large print, braille, or audio.
- Public Sector Compliance – Government websites and apps must follow Decree-Law No. 83/2018, which aligns with the EAA.
Important Deadlines
- The EAA was adopted in 2019, but businesses must comply by June 28, 2025 58.
- Public sector websites in Portugal had earlier deadlines, but full EAA enforcement starts in 2025.
What Happens If a Business Doesn’t Comply?
- Fines range from €5,000 to €100,000+, depending on the violation.
- Companies risk lawsuits, reputational damage, and losing customers.
Who Is Exempt?
- Micro-businesses (under 10 employees and €2 million annual turnover) don’t have to comply but are encouraged to improve accessibility.
Final Notes
This explanation is based on the official European Accessibility Act (EAA) and related Portuguese laws. For more details, visit the official EU page:
European Commission - EAA