Singapore’s accessibility laws
Understand Singapore’s digital accessibility requirements and learn what your organization must do to meet them. Whether you’re in the public or private sector, Deque can help you create digital experiences that are compliant and serve all of Singapore's users, including people with disabilities and an aging population.
What are Singapore's digital accessibility laws and standards?
Singapore’s commitment to accessibility is reflected in its IMDA Accessibility Guidelines, which provide clear recommendations for creating digital services that meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards. This effort is part of a broader national mission outlined in the Enabling Masterplan 2030, which aims to build a more inclusive society where technology bridges gaps rather than creates barriers. By signing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), Singapore has demonstrated its commitment to digital equality and ensuring everyone can participate fully in the country’s digital transformation.
Disability and digital accessibility in Singapore
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3.4% of residents have a disability.
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By 2030, 25% of Singapore’s population will be 65 and older, and many will have age-related accessibility needs.
Why digital accessibility is right for your organization
The benefits of offering accessible products and services are wide-ranging and include:
Equality and inclusion
Being accessible ensures that everyone, including individuals with disabilities, can fully engage with your organization’s digital properties.
Trust and loyalty
Prioritizing accessibility demonstrates your commitment to your users, customers, and community. Accessibility builds credibility and leads to increased trust and loyalty.
Innovation and competitiveness
Developing advanced accessibility solutions gives your organization a competitive edge. Building products and services that meet or exceed accessibility standards, such as WCAG 2.1, sets you apart from organizations that have not made appropriate investments in digital accessibility.
The risks of non-compliance
Failure to comply with the IMDA Accessibility Guidelines can have serious consequences for your organization, including:
Fines
Singapore’s IMDA may impose financial penalties on organizations that fail to meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards.
Lawsuits
Non-compliance can lead to legal action from individuals or advocacy groups, damaging your organization’s reputation and negatively impacting your bottom line.
Loss of business
Inaccessible platforms can exclude a large portion of your audience, leading to lost revenue and other business opportunities.
Choose Deque for digital accessibility in Singapore
Regional experts
Deque has offices and employees worldwide with deep knowledge of local guidelines.
Strategic Consulting
Our Principal Strategy Consultants help build, run and improve the world’s largest digital accessibility programs.
Trusted and proven tools
Our axe accessibility testing tools are the defacto global standard with 875,000+ installs
Frequently asked questions
Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) provides Accessibility Guidelines that recommend WCAG 2.1 Level AA compliance for digital services. These guidelines support Singapore’s Smart Nation vision of inclusive digital experiences.
No, it is not mandatory. However, while not currently legislated, IMDA strongly recommends WCAG 2.1 Level AA compliance for all public sector digital services and large enterprises. Following these guidelines prepares organizations for Singapore’s evolving digital landscape and potential future regulations.
Adopting WCAG standards demonstrates your commitment to serving all Singaporeans, including people with disabilities. Beyond social responsibility, accessible design improves user experience for your entire audience while future-proofing your digital platforms against regulatory changes.