A new European law entered into force on 28 June 2025 that imposes specific rules on accessibility on cash survey. The measure applies to all citizens of the European Union (EU) and aims to ensure that anyone, regardless of physical or cognitive limitations, can use automatic boxes (ATM) autonomously. The legislation, approved under the European act of accessibility, determines mandatory changes to implement by banking institutions in Portugal and in the remaining Member States until June 29, 2030.
According to the European Commission, new requirements require banks to adapt all existing ATS, provided they are less than ten years old. The older equipment should be replaced. All new terminals installed from the entry into force of the law have to fully comply with the established rules.
Mandatory changes in automatic boxes
Among the defined requirements are larger screens and improved contrast, allowing reading under different light conditions, as well as the installation of audio orientation systems for visual impairment users.
The keyboards will have to include braille markings and relief keys, and the menus and interfaces should be simpler, with accessible language and broader response times before automatic operation cancellation.
According to the same source, these measures seek to respond to the growing difficulties faced by the elderly and citizens with disabilities, namely due to the accelerated digitization of banking services and the reduction of face -to -face care in agencies.
Modernization, however, represents a considerable financial effort for banks, with estimated costs between 1,500 and 3,000 euros for each TMJ.
More than automatic boxes: the law also covers other self -service services
According to the source mentioned above, the new rules are not limited to the TMJ. Also applicable to automatic transportation machine sales machines, interactive self -service terminals and similar equipment, such as luggage management machines at airports.
Complementary measures to protect more vulnerable groups
This legislative change joins measures already in force in several countries, including Portugal, where people over 65 and citizens with an incapacity of 33% or more are exempt from paying commissions by raising money at their banks’ counters.
Nevertheless, many institutions have reduced the number of workers in agencies, which has limited access to face -to -face services, pushing users to digital alternatives not always accessible by them.
It reinforces that the legislation aims to ensure compliance with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, promoting digital and financial inclusion.
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