When Does What Apply?
The EU AI Act Timeline
Simply Explained
The EU AI Act is on its way - but many companies are asking: When do we need to comply with which regulations? What applies immediately, what later? This article provides a clear overview of all important deadlines, transition rules, and obligations.
The Most Important Dates at a Glance
1. Introduction: Why Deadlines Are So Important
The EU AI Act will not become fully effective overnight. Instead, the EU is introducing the rules in stages. This staggered introduction gives companies time to adapt, but also carries the risk of missing important deadlines. Early and precise knowledge of the timeline is crucial for ensuring compliance, avoiding fines, and possibly even gaining a competitive advantage through proactive adaptation.
For example, companies that develop or use AI systems later classified as "prohibited" must remove them from the market much earlier than the adaptation deadline for high-risk AI systems. Those who don't pay attention risk significant penalties.
2. The Path to the Regulation: Legislation & Entry into Force
The path of the EU AI Act was long and marked by intensive negotiations. Here are the final steps to the official start and the first important dates according to the official timeline:
Political Agreement (Trilogue)
(December 2023)Commission, Council, and Parliament agree on a final draft text.
Adoption by EU Parliament
(March 13, 2024)Formal adoption by the EU Parliament.
Adoption by Council
(May 21, 2024)Formal adoption by the Council of the European Union.
Publication in Official Journal
(July 12, 2024)The AI Act is published in the Official Journal of the European Union.
Entry into Force (EIF)
(August 1, 2024)The AI Act enters into force 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal (entry into force date).
3. Detaillierte Zeitleiste des AI Acts
Die detaillierte Zeitleiste wurde redaktionell erstellt und wird aktuell gehalten. Alle in Cyan dargestellten Termine stehen für den Beginn der praktischen Anwendung. In Orange dargestellte Termine fassen mehrere Ereignisse zusammen und sind ausklappbar.Zuletzt aktualisiert: 3. Juni 2025
4. What Companies Should Prepare Now
Even though most rules only apply from 2026, now is the right time to prepare:
Build AI Competence (Article 4)
Start training your employees. Raise awareness of opportunities, risks, and responsible use of AI. Applies from Feb. 2025!
Inventory & Classification
Record all AI systems in use and planned. Classification and implementation according to the AI Act risk categories.
Establish Governance Structures
Define responsibilities for AI Act compliance.
Prepare Technical Documentation
Create necessary documentation, especially for (potential) high-risk AI systems.
5. Special Regulations & Exceptions
The EU AI Act provides for certain facilitations and specific regulations:
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) & Start-ups
SMEs and start-ups should benefit from reduced fees for conformity assessments and prioritized access to AI regulatory sandboxes. The requirements will also apply to them, with the principle of proportionality being observed.
Open Source Models
The AI Act contains specific regulations for open-source AI models that tend to be less strict, as long as they are not placed on the market or used as high-risk systems or for prohibited purposes. The exact obligations depend on the context.
Companies Outside the EU (Third Countries)
The AI Act has extraterritorial effect. This means that companies based outside the EU are also affected if they provide AI systems on the EU market or if the output produced by their AI systems is used in the EU.
Conclusion: Proactive Preparation is Key
The timeline of the EU AI Act is complex, but the staggered introduction offers companies the opportunity for careful preparation. Don't wait until deadlines are imminent. Start now with analyzing your AI systems, building know-how, and adapting your processes. This not only ensures compliance but allows you to continue using AI safely and innovatively.
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