Accessible PDFs

Accessible PDFs
What your Web2Print software needs to do (and can do)
Accessible PDFs are more than just a “nice-to-have” today—they are essential for inclusive communication. The Accessibility Enhancement Act (BFSG) takes effect on June 28, 2025, and requires companies to make their products and services, including PDF documents, accessible. We’ve compiled the answers to the most important questions about accessible PDFs for you.
What is an accessible PDF?
An accessible PDF is a digital document designed so that it can be used by everyone, including people with visual or hearing impairments, physical disabilities, or cognitive impairments. Such PDFs can be read aloud using screen readers and can be navigated using a keyboard.
Why are accessible PDFs important in Web2Print?
- Accessible PDFs enable people with disabilities to access information.
- They improve the user experience for all users.
- With Web2Print software that can generate accessible PDFs, you and your customers can comply with legal requirements and reduce legal risks.
- Accessibility strengthens your company's positive brand image. This helps you expand your digital reach and demonstrate social responsibility.
What does the law say?
Accessibility Enhancement Act (BFSG) – effective June 2025
Applies to private companies, including those in e-commerce and those offering digital products and services. The requirements also apply to PDFs and automatically generated documents if they are intended for consumers.
Law on Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (BGG)
Applies to public authorities (federal and state). The law requires that websites, apps, and all digital documents (e.g., PDFs) be accessible.
Standard PDF/UA as a supplement to EN 301 549
PDF/UA (Universal Accessibility) is the recommended technical specification for accessible PDFs. It defines how a PDF must be structured to ensure it can be reliably used with screen readers, keyboard navigation, and other assistive technologies. EN 301 549 is the European standard for digital accessibility and is based on the WCAG 2.1 AA standard.
EU Directive 2016/2102
Guidelines on Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications of Public Bodies. These guidelines serve as the basis for national laws such as the BGG or the Accessible Information Technology Ordinance (BITV).
EU Directive 2019/882
Guideline on Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications for Private Providers. Serves as the basis for the BFSG.
So, are accessible PDFs required?
Short answer: Yes. Accessibility is often mandatory. Public contracting authorities frequently require accessible PDFs in their calls for bids. The BFSG will take effect on June 28, 2025, and will make accessibility mandatory for many private companies as well, particularly for digital products and services intended for consumers. Even though there is currently no general obligation, violations of accessibility requirements can entail reputational and liability risks.
When is a PDF accessible?
Here is a checklist for accessible PDFs:
-
Structured content
PDFs need a tag structure (headings, paragraphs, lists) so that screen readers can parse the content. -
Alt text for images
All relevant images must include short, descriptive alt text. -
Correct Reading Order
The reading order in the PDF must be logical, even when there are columns or a graphically complex layout. -
Contrast and Readability
Clear font, appropriate size, sufficient color contrast (at least 4.5:1). -
Machine-readable text
No plain scanned PDFs or images. All text must be copyable and readable.
How do I implement accessibility with Web2Print?
Choosing Web-to-Print Software with Accessibility Features
Make sure your Web2Print software supports accessible PDF standards (such as PDF/UA) and can generate accessible documents.
Designing Accessible Templates
Make sure the templates are set up to generate accessible PDFs.
Integrate automated tests
Implement tools that check PDFs for accessibility before they are finalized or printed.
Actively promote accessible product options
Clearly communicate to your customers that they can create accessible documents, for example, in your store or online editor.
Regularly review and optimize processes
Keep your Web2Print software and templates up to date with the latest standards and legal requirements.
How long does it take to create accessible PDFs?
Is it expensive and complicated?
If you use Web2Print software in your store or portal that meets the requirements for accessible PDFs, then you don’t need to do anything else. You can inform your customers and employees about this benefit, for example, by using an icon or a newsletter.
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