Accessibility legislation: the Netherlands
The Commodities Act Decree on Accessibility Requirements mandates digital accessibility for people with disabilities in the Netherlands from June 28, 2025 and it is overseen by the Consumer & Markets Authority (ACM). The regulation targets various digital services and hardware, excluding private use and infeasible cases. The latest amendments to this decree were done May 3, 2024.
Scope of application
The regulation mandates that a range of digital content and services must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. Specifically, this includes:
- Consumer computer hardware systems
- Self-service terminals: payment, automated teller, ticketing, check-in machines
- Interactive consumer terminal equipment for:
- Audiovisual media access
- E-readers
- Electronic communications
- Audiovisual media access
- Transport services (websites, mobile apps, e-tickets, informational screens)
- Banking services
- E-books
- Dedicated software
- E-commerce
As an additional point of consideration, regulations also apply to emergency communications with the European emergency number “112”.
Exceptions
The regulation excludes several categories of content. These exclusions cover pre-recorded time-based media and office file formats that were published before June 28, 2025. Additionally, online maps and mapping services are exempt, provided that essential information remains accessible digitally. This also extends to navigational maps. Content from third parties that is not under the control of the economic operator, as well as archived content that has not been updated or edited after the specified date, are also not subject to the regulation.
Fines and penalties
In the Netherlands, strict adherence to accessibility regulations is enforced to ensure equal access for all users. Non-compliance with these regulations may result in significant financial penalties for organizations that fail to meet the required standards. Such infringements fall under the fifth category of criminal offense, and the fine can amount to as much as €103,000.
Reporting
The Netherlands follows the EU-wide mandate for accessibility statements on private sector websites and digital services. These statements are essential for maintaining transparency and accountability.
This statement must be publicly available on their websites and provide clear information on the accessibility status of their digital services, such as whether they meet the required standards or outline existing accessibility issues. The statement should also detail the measures taken to improve accessibility, including any ongoing efforts or plans for remediation. Additionally, the accessibility statement must specify how users can report accessibility problems and request assistance, ensuring that organizations remain accountable and transparent in their commitment to accessible digital experiences.
If users encounter accessibility barriers or wish to submit a complaint regarding non-compliance, they may contact the competent authority, the Consumer & Markets Authority (ACM). Complaints can be submitted via:
Email: acm-post@acm.nl
Phone number: +31 88 070 7070
Official website: https://www.consuwijzer.nl/
Address: PO Box 16326, 2500 BH The Hague, The Netherlands
Compliance with the Commodities Act Decree on Accessibility Requirements mandates digital accessibility for people with disabilities in the Netherlands requires a clear Accessibility Statement. Not sure where to start? Use our Free Accessibility Statement Generator to create one in minutes.
For the latest and most accurate information on digital accessibility requirements, please refer to the official documentation provided by the Netherlandish government.