The EU AI Act Timeline: The Countdown Begins

1 August 2024: The EU AI  Act effective date

Mark your calendars—1 August 2024 is the official date when the EU AI Act will enter into force, just 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. This marks the beginning of a new era in AI regulation, setting the stage for a structured and phased implementation process over the next few years.

2 February 2025: Prohibitions on AI Systems with Unacceptable Risks

Six months after the act enters into force, on 2 February 2025, the first major provisions will take effect. This includes the prohibition of AI systems considered to pose an unacceptable risk. This crucial step underscores the EU’s commitment to safeguarding fundamental rights and public safety from the most dangerous AI applications.

2 August 2025: Obligations for General Purpose AI Models

One year into the journey will see the obligations for providers of general-purpose AI models come into force. This date also mandates the appointment of competent authorities within member states and initiates the annual review and potential amendment of the prohibited AI list by the European Commission. Additionally, the AI Office is expected to have prepared codes of practice for providers by this date, ensuring a smooth transition into compliance.

2 February 2026: Post-Market Monitoring

By 2 February 2026, 18 months after the entry into force, the Commission will implement regulations on post-market monitoring. This initiative aims to ensure continuous oversight and assessment of AI systems, fostering a culture of accountability and safety in AI deployment.

2 August 2026: High-Risk AI Systems

Two years from the entry into force, 2 August 2026, is a landmark date. On this day, obligations for high-risk AI systems outlined in Annex III will come into effect. These systems span critical areas such as biometrics, critical infrastructure, education, employment, law enforcement, and more. Member states must also implement rules on penalties and set up operational AI regulatory sandboxes. The Commission will also review the list of high-risk AI systems and could make amendments to it.

2 August 2027: Additional High-Risk AI Systems

Fast forward to 2 August 2027, and obligations will be imposed on high-risk AI systems not initially listed in Annex III but used as safety components of products, as well as AI systems requiring third-party conformity assessments under existing EU laws.

By The End of 2030:

Looking further ahead, by the end of 2030, obligations will extend to certain AI systems that are components of large-scale information technology systems established by EU law, including those related to freedom, security, and justice, such as the Schengen Information System.

Further Rulemaking and Guidance on the AI Act Implementation

To support this extensive implementation timeline, the European Commission is expected to issue delegated acts and guidance on several critical aspects.

• Delegated Acts: These will cover the definition of AI systems, criteria for high-risk AI, technical documentation, conformity assessments, and more, with the Commission’s authority to do so lasting until at least 2 August 2029, extendable by another five years.
• Guidance: The Commission will also provide essential guidance on high-risk AI incident reporting, practical implementation of AI requirements, transparency obligations, and the relationship of the AI Act with other EU laws.