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- Suvitha is a Regulatory Compliance Expert and Content Strategist with a deep understanding of UK and EU regulatory frameworks. At Euverify, she transforms complex legal and technical updates into clear, actionable guidance for businesses. Her work bridges regulation and communication, helping brands stay compliant, credible, and competitive in regulated markets.
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EU Accessibility Act: Why Appointing an EU-Based Authorised Representative is Essential
With the June 28, 2025 deadline for the EU Accessibility Act fast approaching, businesses outside the EU need to act now to ensure compliance. If your company operates in the EU market, you’re legally required to appoint an EU-based Authorised Representative.
In this blog, we’ll break down why having an EU-based Authorised Representative is essential for compliance, how it affects your business, and what steps you should take now to be ready before the deadline.
What Does the EU Accessibility Act Cover?
The EU Accessibility Act aims to make sure people with disabilities can access and use a wide range of products and services across the EU. It covers multiple sectors to help create a more inclusive experience, including:
- Hardware: Devices such as smartphones, ATMs, and ticketing machines.
- Software: Desktop apps, mobile apps, and cloud-based services.
- Services: Public transport booking systems, audiovisual media, and e-commerce platforms.
Starting June 28, 2025, all new products and services launched in the EU must meet the accessibility requirements outlined in EN 301 549. This standard is designed to make sure your products and services are usable by people with disabilities, as well as older adults and individuals with temporary impairments.
Why You Need an EU-Based Authorised Representative
If you’re a non-EU business looking to sell or continue selling in the EU, the EU Accessibility Act requires you to appoint an EU-based Authorised Representative. Here’s why this step matters:
1. It’s a Legal Requirement
The EU Accessibility Act requires all non-EU businesses to appoint an Authorised Representative based within the EU. This person or organisation serves as your official point of contact with EU regulators. Without an appointed representative, you won’t be able to legally sell or offer your products and services in the EU after June 2025.
2. Managing Compliance with EN 301 549
Your EU-based Authorised Representative plays a key role in making sure your products meet the requirements of EN 301 549. This includes everything from product design to accessibility features, like compatibility with assistive technologies. They’ll also help you ensure all documentation is complete and your products are fully compliant before entering the EU market.
How an Authorised Representative Helps Manage Compliance
Here’s how your EU-based Authorised Representative ensures your products comply with the EU Accessibility Act:
1. Maintaining Technical Documentation
Your Authorised Representative will manage the necessary technical documentation for your product, including:
- Test reports proving your product meets EU accessibility standards.
- Risk assessments ensuring safety and usability for people with disabilities.
- Compliance records, including the EU Declaration of Conformity.
This documentation needs to be available for review at any time by EU regulators. Your representative ensures it’s up-to-date, complete, and easily accessible.
2. Liaising with EU Authorities
Your EU-based Authorised Representative is the primary contact for all EU regulatory matters. They will:
- Handle inquiries and audits from EU authorities.
- Manage any product compliance issues or product recalls.
- Ensure your business stays aligned with EU regulations throughout your product’s lifecycle.
3. Ongoing Compliance Monitoring
Compliance doesn’t stop once your product is in the market. Your Authorised Representative plays a critical role in monitoring ongoing compliance, ensuring that:
- Your product continues to meet accessibility standards.
You’re kept informed about any updates to EN 301 549 and other related regulations.
What Happens If You Don’t Appoint an EU-Based Authorised Representative?
Failing to appoint an EU-based Authorised Representative can have serious consequences. Here’s what you risk:
- Limited Market Access
If you don’t have an Authorised Representative, your products and services won’t be allowed into the EU market after June 2025. - Risk of Fines and Penalties
Failing to comply can lead to legal action and financial penalties from EU authorities. It can also harm your brand’s reputation. - Launch Delays
Without the proper representation, you could face delays bringing your products to market in the EU, potentially disrupting your business plans.
Appointing an Authorised Representative goes beyond meeting a basic requirement. It’s a key step to keep your business running legally and smoothly within the EU.
Transition Period for Existing Products and Services
While the June 2025 deadline applies to new products and services, there is a transition period for existing products and services. Here’s what that means for your business:
- Existing Products: Products that were legally placed on the EU market before June 2025 can continue to be sold and supported until June 30, 2030. However, if you make any major changes to these products after the deadline, they must immediately comply with the new accessibility standards.
- Existing Services: Services provided under contracts signed before June 2025 can continue until the contract ends, but not beyond five years from the deadline.
Steps You Need to Take Now to Ensure Compliance with the EU Accessibility Act
- Appoint an EU-Based Authorised Representative
Choose a partner with strong expertise in EU regulations. Look for someone who thoroughly understands the EU Accessibility Act and EN 301 549. They’ll serve as your official point of contact with EU regulators. - Review Your Products and Services
Make sure all your digital and physical products meet the accessibility standards set out in EN 301 549. It’s a good idea to work with accessibility experts to spot any gaps or areas for improvement. - Update Your Documentation
Make sure all technical documentation is complete and up to date. This includes test reports, risk assessments, and your EU Declaration of Conformity. Your Authorised Representative can help keep everything well-organised and in full compliance. - Plan for Ongoing Audits and Reviews
Staying compliant doesn’t end in June 2025. Regular audits and reviews will help you keep up with any updates to the regulations and maintain long-term compliance.
Final Takeaway
The June 2025 deadline for the EU Accessibility Act is approaching fast. If you’re a non-EU business, now is the time to take action to make sure you can continue selling products and offering services in the EU. Appointing an EU-based Authorised Representative is a key step in staying compliant and avoiding potential penalties.
At Euverify, we help non-EU businesses navigate EU regulatory requirements with confidence. Our experienced team can assist you in appointing an Authorised Representative, managing your technical documentation, and making sure your products meet EU accessibility standards.
Get in touch with us today to ensure your business is fully compliant and prepared to meet the harmonised requirements of EN 301 549.
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