ePrivacy enforcement timeline
Every key ePrivacy date — entry into force, transposition deadlines, phased provisions, and compliance milestones. 2 milestones tracked, sourced directly from EUR-Lex.
When does ePrivacy take effect?
ePrivacy (Directive 2002/58/EC (as amended by 2009/136/EC)) has 2 key enforcement milestones. 1 milestone has already passed; 1 milestone is upcoming. The next key date is 31 December 2026: ePrivacy Regulation — expected adoption (estimated).
Next milestone: 31 December 2026 — 233 days away
Source: Directive 2002/58/EC (as amended by 2009/136/EC) via EuroComply EU Regulation Deadlines dataset
Total milestones
2
In force
1
Upcoming
1
ePrivacy — complete milestone timeline
Directive 2002/58/EC (as amended by 2009/136/EC) · Official text
Cookie consent requirement enters into force across Member States
Amendments from Directive 2009/136/EC (the 'Cookie Directive') required Member States to implement consent requirements for cookies and similar tracking technologies. Users must give informed, freely-given consent before non-essential cookies are stored.
Applies to: providers of electronic communications services and any website operator using cookies or similar tracking technologies targeting EU users
Penalty: up to €20M per member state enforcement (aligns with GDPR where personal data involved)
ePrivacy Regulation — expected adoption (estimated)
The proposed ePrivacy Regulation has been under negotiation since 2017 to replace the ePrivacy Directive and align with GDPR. Council and Parliament positions remain unresolved on several points. Adoption and transposition timing is uncertain as of May 2026.
Applies to: providers of electronic communications networks and services; entities processing electronic communications data
Penalty: expected to mirror GDPR penalties: up to €20M or 4% of global turnover
Legislative process ongoing. Date is estimated and subject to change.
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Check scope — freeFor informational purposes only. This is not legal advice — consult qualified legal counsel for advice specific to your situation. Dates reflect official EUR-Lex sources; verify with your national competent authority for jurisdiction-specific transposition dates.
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