Resource guide
2.4.12 Focus Not Obscured (Enhanced)
When a component receives keyboard focus, it must be fully visible and not obscured by any other content.
By Calling All Minds·Last updated April 2026
Success criterion
Conformance level
Enhanced accessibility — beyond the legal minimum.
Added in WCAG 2.2
What it means
This is the enhanced version of 2.4.11. Where Level AA requires only that the focused component is not completely hidden, Level AAA requires that it is entirely visible. No part of the focused element should be covered by sticky headers, overlays, or other fixed-position content.
In practice
Use generous scroll padding that fully accounts for any fixed elements: scroll-padding-top: 100px if your header is 80px tall gives a comfortable buffer.
Consider whether sticky elements are necessary. Fixed navigation is a convenience but creates significant focus management overhead.
Common failures
- Sticky header that partially covers the top of a focused element
AXS Audit
AXS Audit checks your site against 2.4.12 and flags issues your team can act on straight away. It covers criteria that automated scanners often miss.