BFSG: Digital Accessibility for Businesses
The German Accessibility Act (BFSG) requires businesses to ensure digital accessibility. Learn what the law means for your business, which requirements apply, and how to ensure compliance.
What Is the BFSG?
The Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) is Germany's implementation of EU Directive 2019/882 (European Accessibility Act). It requires businesses to make their digital products and services accessible.
The law has been in effect since June 28, 2025. It applies to all businesses offering products or services to consumers (B2C) in Germany. The technical foundation is the WCAG 2.2 AA guidelines (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines).
The goal of the BFSG is to enable people with disabilities to have equal access to digital offerings and to strengthen social participation.
Who Is Affected by the BFSG?
The BFSG applies to businesses offering digital products or services to consumers. These sectors are particularly affected:
E-Commerce
Online shops and marketplaces
Banking & Finance
Online banking and financial services
Telecommunications
Mobile and internet providers
Transport Services
Booking platforms and schedule information
E-Books
Digital publications and reading platforms
Digital Services
B2C websites and web applications
Exception: Micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees and annual turnover or balance sheet total of no more than 2 million euros are exempt from the BFSG.
BFSG Self-Check: Are You Affected?
Answer four short questions to find out if the BFSG applies to your business.
Do you offer products or services online?
Is your offering aimed at consumers (B2C)?
Do you have more than 10 employees?
Is your annual revenue more than €2M?
WCAG 2.2 AA — The Technical Foundation
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) define four fundamental principles of accessibility.
Perceivable (Perceivable)
Information and user interface components must be presentable to users in ways they can perceive.
Operable (Operable)
All user interface functions must be operable via keyboard and other input methods.
Understandable (Understandable)
Information and operation must be understandable. Text must be readable and functionality predictable.
Robust (Robust)
Content must be robust enough to be interpreted by a wide variety of user agents and assistive technologies.
Key Success Criteria
| Criterion | Description | Level |
|---|---|---|
| 1.1.1 Non-text Content | All images and non-text content need alternative text. | A |
| 1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum) | Text must have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1. | AA |
| 1.4.11 Non-text Contrast | Graphical elements and UI components require a contrast ratio of 3:1. | AA |
| 2.1.1 Keyboard | All functions must be accessible and operable via keyboard. | A |
| 2.4.4 Link Purpose (In Context) | The purpose of a link must be determinable from the link text or its context. | A |
| 3.1.1 Language of Page | The primary language of the page must be specified in the HTML code. | A |
| 4.1.2 Name, Role, Value | UI components must correctly communicate name, role, and state to assistive technologies. | A |
Deadlines & Timeline
EU Directive 2019/882
The European Accessibility Act is adopted by the European Parliament.
BFSG Adopted
Germany transposes the EU directive into national law with the Accessibility Strengthening Act.
BFSG in Effect
The law comes into full effect. Businesses must meet all requirements.
What Happens If You Don't Comply?
The consequences of BFSG violations are significant. Businesses should act early.
Fines up to €100,000
BFSG violations can result in substantial fines.
Legal Warnings
Competitors and consumer protection organizations can take legal action.
Reputation Damage
Lack of accessibility can damage trust with customers and partners.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the BFSG
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