Ask Canada
Accessibility
Everyone should be able to use government services. Here is how we build for that.
Our standard
Ask Canada aims to meet the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 level AA, the standard referenced by the Government of Canada’s Standard on Web Accessibility and EN 301 549.
What we do
- Every control works with a keyboard, with a visible focus ring. Press “/” to jump to the question box and Esc to stop an answer.
- Answers are announced to screen readers as they finish, and every tool has a text alternative.
- Colours meet contrast requirements in light and dark mode, and motion is reduced when your device asks for it.
- You can ask by voice, have answers read aloud, and use the site at any zoom level without sideways scrolling.
- English and French have full, reviewed interfaces. Answers are also available in many other languages.
Known limitations
- Menus in languages other than English and French use English until native speakers review them.
- Maps are paired with a text list, but map panning is easier with a mouse or touch.