When we talk about web accessibility, we usually think of Israeli websites or those serving the local population. But what happens with an international business? Does an online store targeting a global market have to make its website accessible under Israeli law?<\/p>\r\n
And more broadly, is an international business really required to provide accessibility? The answer is complex and depends mainly on one question: who is your actual audience? If your website serves Israeli users—even partially—you must ensure your site is accessible in accordance with Israeli law<\/a>. Conversely, if your platform doesn't serve Israeli users at all, the requirement is waived or changes based on regulations in your target country.<\/p>\r\n According to the law, a website must be accessible if it serves the public in Israel.<\/p>\r\n This means that even if a website uses an international domain, if it offers products or services relevant to Israelis, it must meet accessibility requirements.<\/p>\r\n For example, if a business sells shoes online and ships to Israel, or operates an interface in Hebrew, it is required to make the website accessible. By contrast, if a website offers services exclusively to US citizens—such as a US-based phone line or American health insurance—there would be no requirement under Israeli law.<\/p>\r\n The key criterion is whether the service, content, or product actually reaches an audience in Israel. This doesn't always depend on language or domain, but rather on the nature of the service and accessibility for users in Israel (for instance, consider a website for Hebrew-speaking Israeli-Americans that targets only Israelis in the US).<\/p>\r\n Consider a website that sells SIM cards for tourists visiting Israel.<\/p>\r\n Let's say this website sells SIM cards for use in Israel, but exclusively targets tourists. It's aimed at people about to visit Israel, not Israelis themselves. In this case, since there isn't an Israeli user base consuming the service, you could argue that the obligation to make the website accessible under Israeli law does not apply.<\/p>\r\n A business serving audiences outside Israel must comply with local regulations in that country.<\/p>\r\n In the United States, for example, there are regulations requiring website accessibility, especially for businesses working with the federal government. There, Section 508 applies—mandating accessibility for any website or interface integrated into work with government entities.<\/p>\r\n In European countries, requirements are often even stricter—particularly in nations like Germany or the Netherlands. There's sometimes a misconception that accessibility is just an "Israeli thing." It's important to understand that an international business is not exempt from accessibility—it simply must comply with local regulations where it operates.<\/p>\r\n If you're planning to expand abroad, it's crucial to research accessibility requirements in your target country and consult with a local accessibility expert who can guide you through the process.<\/p>\r\n You have an international website and aren't legally required to provide accessibility? Here it's important to distinguish between legal obligation and business and ethical responsibility.<\/p>\r\n Even without a legal mandate, basic accessibility opens doors to a much wider audience. We're talking about users with various disabilities who struggle to consume online content when it's not designed for them. An accessible website also serves people without disabilities better—with convenient navigation, clear text, and built-in accessibility across all devices.<\/p>\r\n Additionally, search engines somewhat favor accessible websites because they maintain good text hierarchy and deliver a user experience that works for everyone. This can contribute to higher Google rankings and performance in AI-driven search engines.<\/p>\r\n For an international website, accessibility can be a distinct competitive advantage.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n Reach out to web accessibility experts who have experience with international accessibility projects.<\/p>\r\n And on that note, welcome to our site. At USER A<\/a>, we'd be happy to provide you with professional service and audit your website for accessibility. Our expert team brings extensive experience in making websites accessible both locally and internationally, and offers comprehensive solutions for both manual and automated accessibility improvements.<\/p>When is an international website required to be accessible under Israeli law?<\/h2>\r\n
A concrete example<\/h2>\r\n
What do laws say in other countries?<\/h2>\r\n
Is it worth making a website accessible even if it's not required?<\/h2>\r\n
How do you start making an international website accessible?<\/h2>\r\n