European Accessibility Act (EAA) in Italy – All the Key Details

Heard about the European Accessibility Act (EAA) but not sure what it actually means for businesses in Italy? With each country adding its own twist, it can be hard to know what’s required or where to even start. But don’t stress. We’ve broken it all down for you.

In this post, you’ll get a clear, no-fluff overview of how the EAA is applied in Italy: who needs to comply, what’s exempt, key deadlines, who enforces the rules, and what happens if you don’t meet them. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect and what to do next.

How Is the EAA Implemented in Italy?

Italy transposed the European Accessibility Act into national law with Legislative Decree No. 82 of 27 May 2022 (D.Lgs. 82/2022). This decree sets out the legal framework, outlining the scope, covered products and services, compliance requirements, and associated penalties.

While some European countries, like Germany, have adopted a separate regulation (e.g., BFSGV) to provide technical implementation details for meeting the requirements of their transposed law, Italy has not issued a standalone regulation.

Instead, businesses are expected to refer to EN 301 549, the European standard for digital accessibility. This is the same approach taken in Spain and the Netherlands, where the legal text sets the scope, but the technical “how-to” is guided by EU standards.

Who Needs to Comply with the EAA in Italy?

D.Lgs. 82/2022, Italy’s EAA transposition, applies to private-sector businesses offering consumer-facing products and services in Italy.

The following sectors must comply with accessibility requirements:

• Websites and mobile apps: Any consumer-facing digital interface in sectors like banking, e-commerce, media, or transport.
• Digital services: Online marketplaces, telecom platforms, online banking, transport booking systems.
• Consumer products: Smartphones, tablets, e-readers, ATMs, ticket machines, and other self-service terminals.
• Media and communications: Video-on-demand platforms, telecom services, and emergency communications (e.g., number 112).

Who Is Exempt from the EAA in Italy?

While D.Lgs. 82/2022 has broad application, several exemptions exist:

• Micro-enterprises: Companies with fewer than 10 employees and less than €2 million turnover are exempt from service-related accessibility but not from product obligations.
• Disproportionate burden clause: Businesses can claim exemption if full compliance creates an undue economic or technical burden, if properly documented.
• Fundamental change exception: If accessibility requirements would alter a product’s essential function or purpose, companies may be exempt with justification.
• Internal B2B use: Services and products used solely within businesses and not for end consumers are not covered.

What Are the Compliance Deadlines?

Italy follows the EU-mandated EAA timeline, with additional national transition provisions:

• 28 June 2025: All new or updated products and services must comply with accessibility rules.
• 28 June 2030: Products and services already on the market before June 2025 must be updated to comply or be discontinued.
• 28 June 2045: Self-service terminals (e.g., ATMs, ticket kiosks, and other self-service machines) installed before 2025 can remain in use for up to 20 years before requiring replacement with accessible versions.

What Are the Penalties for Non-Compliance?

Failure to comply with the EAA in Italy can result in:

• Monetary fines: Administrative fine ranging from €5,000 up to €40,000​.
• Product/service bans: Authorities can order removal from the market or shut down non-compliant services.
• Up to 5% of annual turnover: Applies to large companies (over €500M annual turnover) for digital accessibility violations. (based on Italy’s Stanca Law).

Who Enforces the EAA in Italy?

Italy has designated two main authorities to oversee enforcement:

• Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy: Responsible for market surveillance of physical products.
• Agency for Digital Italy (AgID): Oversees compliance for digital services.

Consumers, advocacy groups, and even competitors can report violations. These reports trigger investigations, and the relevant authorities may initiate enforcement actions when necessary.

How to Ensure EAA Compliance in Italy

To comply with the European Accessibility Act in Italy, you’ll need to follow the rules laid out in Legislative Decree No. 82/2022. That’s the national law that brings the EAA into force.

Italy doesn’t have a separate regulation explaining the technical side of things. So, if you’re wondering how to actually meet the requirements, your best reference is EN 301 549, the EU-wide standard for accessibility.

Follow these key steps to meet the requirements of D.Lgs. 82/2022:

Let’s now take a closer look at each step in detail.

Step 1: Identify affected products and services

Start by figuring out which of your products and services fall under the EAA. This usually includes websites, mobile apps, self-service kiosks, e-commerce platforms, e-books, banking tools, and consumer tech like smartphones or tablets.

Step 2: Conduct an accessibility audit

Take a close look at your digital platforms and physical products using standards like EN 301 549 and WCAG 2.2 Level AA. Tools like WebYes can help you test your website against WCAG guidelines, and it’s smart to bring in accessibility experts for a deeper look at your broader product set.

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Step 3: Develop a compliance roadmap

Turn your audit findings into an action plan. Focus first on the most critical barriers and build a timeline that aligns with the EAA deadline. Make sure everyone involved – developers, designers, leadership – knows what they’re responsible for.

Step 4: Train your teams on accessibility

Accessibility only works when everyone’s on board. Equip your teams – especially developers, designers, and product leads – with the knowledge they need. Offer training on EAA requirements, WCAG, and accessibility fundamentals like the POUR principles, and keep it ongoing.

Step 5: Document and communicate accessibility compliance

If you offer digital services, post an accessibility statement that explains your current status and how users can report issues. For physical products, be ready with the required technical documentation and apply the CE mark to show compliance with all relevant EU legislation, including accessibility.

Step 6: Implement continuous monitoring

Accessibility isn’t a one-time task – it’s an ongoing process. Use tools like WebYes to regularly scan and monitor your digital services. Schedule periodic reviews for both digital and physical products to catch issues early and stay compliant long-term.

How Can WebYes Help You Meet EAA Requirements in Italy?

WebYes helps you meet EAA requirements in Italy by guiding you through the process of making your website EAA-compliant. If you’re not familiar with WCAG or EN 301 549, no worries – WebYes does the heavy lifting, identifying accessibility barriers on your site and showing you how to fix them.

Here’s how WebYes can support you in meeting Italy’s EAA requirements:

• Instant accessibility audits: Just enter your website URL, and WebYes will scan for WCAG 2.2 compliance issues.
• Actionable fixes: WebYes gives clear suggestions so you know exactly how to fix the accessibility issues.
• Continuous monitoring: Stay compliant over time with ongoing scans that catch new issues before they become real problems.

WebYes is here to help you start your EAA compliance journey – beginning with your website, the digital front door to your brand – by making it accessible to everyone. Run a free accessibility audit to see where your site stands, identify key issues, and get clear guidance on fixing them.

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