EU KIDS Act: no social media under 13, own account from 15

The Commission proposes EU-wide age limits, parent-managed “mini accounts” and safe-by-design rules for children.

On 17 September 2026 the Commission proposed the EU KIDS Act. Children under 13 would not be allowed on social media; 13- and 14-year-olds could only use a “mini account” managed by a parent, with limited features and a one-hour daily limit; from 15 they could open their own account. Social media, video platforms, online games and AI chatbots and companions would have to switch off features such as infinite scroll, reward loops and night-time push notifications for minors, keep children’s profiles private by default and block contact from strangers. Platforms would have to verify age, for example with the EU age-verification app, and the largest platforms would have to prove their services are safe for children.

For youNothing changes yet: this is a proposal. If it becomes law, expect age checks when opening accounts and different settings for under-18s.

Next: The European Parliament and the Council now negotiate the text; no application date is set yet. It follows the Parliament’s non-binding call, in November 2025, for a minimum age of 16.

Verified against the sources above on 29 September 2026. Plain-language summary — not the legal text and not legal advice.