Article 50 Entry into force and application

This is the entry into force and application article of the Data Act, establishing when the regulation becomes legally binding and when its various obligations take effect.

Rather than a single uniform start date, the article sets out a staggered timeline, with different chapters and obligations kicking in at different points.

Notably, Chapter IV, which governs business-to-business data sharing contracts, has a specific transitional rule that extends its reach to certain pre-existing contracts from 12 September 2027.

Important points:

• The regulation applies from 12 September 2025, but manufacturers and related service providers have until 12 September 2026 to comply with the connected product design obligations set out in Article 3(1).
• Chapter IV applies to contracts concluded after 12 September 2025, but also reaches back to cover pre-existing contracts from 12 September 2027, provided those contracts are of indefinite duration or are due to expire at least 10 years from 11 January 2024.
• Chapter III only applies to data-sharing obligations arising from Union or national law that enters into force after 12 September 2025, meaning pre-existing legislative obligations are not captured.