Global Accessibility Laws
Understanding accessibility requirements across different countries and regions
European Union
European Accessibility Act (EAA)
Mandates private-sector websites and apps meet accessibility standards by 28 June 2025. Exemptions only for micro-enterprises (up to 10 employees or €2M turnover).
Penalties:
- Germany: Up to €100K
- France: Up to €50K
- Poland: 10% of turnover
United States
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Any business website deemed a "place of public accommodation" must adhere to recognized standards (courts default to WCAG 2.1 AA).
Penalties:
- DOJ: $75K first violation, $150K repeats
- Private lawsuits: $10K–$50K settlements
Canada
Accessible Canada Act (ACA)
Federal law requiring accessibility for federally regulated organizations. Provincial laws also apply (AODA in Ontario, etc.).
Standards:
- WCAG 2.1 AA compliance
- Provincial variations apply
Australia
Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)
Prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. Web accessibility is covered under the DDA.
Standards:
- WCAG 2.1 AA recommended
- Human Rights Commission oversight
United Kingdom
Equality Act 2010
Requires reasonable adjustments for disabled people. Public sector websites must meet accessibility standards.
Requirements:
- WCAG 2.1 AA for public sector
- Accessibility statements required
Japan
Basic Act for Persons with Disabilities
Promotes accessibility and prohibits discrimination. JIS X 8341-3 standard for web accessibility.
Standards:
- JIS X 8341-3 compliance
- WCAG 2.1 AA equivalent
India
Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act
Mandates accessibility in information and communication technology. Government websites must be accessible.
Requirements:
- WCAG 2.1 AA for government sites
- GIGW guidelines compliance
Brazil
Brazilian Law for Inclusion (LBI)
Establishes accessibility requirements for websites and digital content. Based on WCAG guidelines.
Standards:
- WCAG 2.1 AA compliance
- Government websites priority
South Korea
Act on Welfare of Persons with Disabilities
Requires accessibility in information and communications. Government and public websites must be accessible.
Standards:
- KS X 9101 standard
- WCAG 2.1 AA equivalent