Organisations planning to deploy high risk artificial intelligence systems in the Netherlands must apply to the

21 September 2026

Organisations planning to deploy high risk artificial intelligence systems in the Netherlands must apply to the Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens for its FRIA pilot by 21 September 2026. This initiative offers early experience with the fundamental rights impact assessment requirements of the EU AI Act. Participation is crucial for entities seeking to understand and prepare for future compliance obligations.

The pilot programme, launched by the Dutch data protection authority, provides a structured opportunity for both public and private sector organisations to engage with the practical application of fundamental rights impact assessments (FRIAs). These assessments are a cornerstone of the EU AI Act, designed to identify and mitigate risks to individuals' rights posed by high risk artificial intelligence systems. Organisations participating in the pilot will gain invaluable insights into the methodology and documentation required for FRIAs, allowing them to refine their internal processes before the Act's full implementation.

This proactive engagement is particularly beneficial for controllers developing or procuring high risk AI, as it allows for iterative learning and adjustment of their governance frameworks. Evidence of participation and the lessons learned will be vital for demonstrating due diligence and a commitment to responsible artificial intelligence deployment. The Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens expects applicants to be actively developing or planning to deploy a high risk artificial intelligence system, ensuring the pilot addresses real world scenarios.

EU AI Act sets 21 September 2026 as the point of effect, and the preparation it requires sits with teams who are measured on other work, which is why this date slips rather than the obligation being misread.