CSRD Timeline – Key Deadlines & Compliance Guide

The Countdown to Compliance: Why the CSRD Timeline Matters

Sustainability reporting is no longer optional—it’s becoming a strategic necessity for companies operating in Europe and beyond. The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is transforming how businesses disclose their ESG performance, setting new transparency and accountability standards.

With its phased implementation, companies must be aware of their reporting obligations, deadlines, and assurance requirements to avoid non-compliance risks. Whether you’re a large EU corporation, a listed SME, or a multinational company with EU operations, understanding the CSRD timeline is crucial for staying ahead.

Let’s break down the key reporting milestones, grace periods, and what it means for your business strategy.

CSRD Reporting Timeline & Key Dates

The CSRD implementation timeline is divided into phases, ensuring a structured transition to sustainability reporting compliance:

• 2025: Companies previously subject to the NFRD must publish their first CSRD-compliant report, covering the 2024 fiscal year.
• 2026: Large EU companies exceeding two of three criteria (250+ employees, €25M+ balance sheet, or €50M+ turnover) must report on their 2025 fiscal year.
• 2027: Listed small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) must start reporting on their 2026 fiscal year, with an optional two-year opt-out.
• 2029: Non-EU companies generating €150M+ revenue within the EU and at least one large EU subsidiary or EU branch must submit their first report covering 2028 fiscal year activities.

The main factors that determine whether an enterprise qualifies as an SME are its staff headcount and either its turnover or total balance sheet. To be classified as an SME, a company must have fewer than 250 employees, a turnover of less than 50 million, and/or a total balance sheet of under 43 million.

When Did CSRD Come into Effect?

The CSRD officially came into force in January 2023, replacing the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD). However, compliance deadlines vary depending on company size and scope.

Grace Period for CSRD Reporting

For listed SMEs, there is a grace period until 2028, allowing them to voluntarily delay compliance. Non-EU companies must comply by 2029, giving them additional time to adapt.

Current Status of CSRD in the EU

Many EU countries are still in the process of incorporating CSRD into their national laws. Companies should monitor updates from regulatory bodies to ensure compliance as frameworks evolve​.

Understanding CSRD Assurance Timeline & ESRS Compliance

The CSRD doesn’t just introduce reporting requirements—it also mandates external assurance. This means companies will need to:

• Conduct a double materiality assessment—analyzing sustainability impacts and financial risks
• Implement structured ESG data collection
• Ensure limited assurance initially, with a shift to reasonable assurance over time
• Format reports in machine-readable European Single Electronic Format (ESEF) to ensure comparability and transparency​

As regulatory oversight intensifies, accurate, audit-ready reporting will be a defining factor for compliance.