What is BFSG?
The short version.
Germany's accessibility law, in plain terms — what it is, who it applies to, and what it actually costs to get wrong.
What it is
BFSG (Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz — the Accessibility Strengthening Act) is Germany's national implementation of the EU's European Accessibility Act (Directive 2019/882). It's been in force since 28 June 2025.
Who it applies to
Businesses offering certain digital products or services to consumers — e-commerce, banking, telecoms, e-books, passenger transport info and ticketing, and most websites with a shop, contact form, or booking function.
Who's exempt
Micro-enterprises — fewer than 10 employees and under €2m annual turnover or balance sheet total. Both conditions, not either — a small team with real revenue can still be in scope.
The standard
Compliance is measured against EN 301 549, the EU's harmonized accessibility standard, currently aligned to WCAG 2.1 AA. A newer version (EN 301 549 v4.1.1, aligned to WCAG 2.2) was published in September 2026, but WCAG 2.1 AA remains the version legally cited for conformity today — that's actively shifting, worth watching if you're planning past this year.
What it costs to get wrong
Fines up to €100,000. Market surveillance authorities can also order distribution bans. Law firms are already sending cease-and-desist letters (Abmahnungen) over BFSG — some based on nothing more than a screenshot.
Not sure where you stand? Start with a quick self-check, three questions.
Check your exposure→Sources
- Bundesfachstelle Barrierefreiheit — official BFSG overview
- Federal government — BFSG legal text and guidance
- ETSI EN 301 549 v3.2.1 — current harmonized standard (WCAG 2.1 AA)
- EN 301 549 v4.1.1 and the WCAG 2.2 transition
This page is a plain-language summary, not legal advice — always confirm your specific situation against the primary sources above or with a qualified advisor.