As of August 31, 2026, ChatGPT is facing stricter oversight in the EU after the European Commission designated it a Very Large Online Search Engine (VLOSE) under the Digital Services Act. This means OpenAI must now meet additional requirements around safety, transparency, and risk management.
What Is ChatGPT’s New EU Status?
ChatGPT earned the Very Large Online Search Engine classification simply because so many people in the EU use its search feature. OpenAI reported roughly 159.1 million average monthly active users for ChatGPT Search across the EU, for the six months ending March 31, 2026. That’s well above the DSA’s threshold of 45 million monthly users needed for this designation.
What Is the Digital Services Act (DSA)?
The Digital Services Act aims to make online services safer, more transparent, and more accountable across the EU. Larger platforms and search services take on added responsibilities once they hit a certain size, covering areas like illegal content, user safety, transparency, and fundamental rights.
How Could the New EU Rules Improve User Safety?
The new requirements are designed to identify and reduce risks that could affect users and society.
Better Protection Against Illegal Content
OpenAI will need to assess and reduce risks related to illegal content being distributed through its service. This could encourage stronger systems for identifying and addressing harmful or unlawful material.
Greater Protection for Minors
The rules require major services to consider risks to children and teenagers. This includes addressing potential effects on minors’ safety, privacy, and well-being.
More Transparency
With this designation come stronger transparency obligations. Users and regulators alike can expect more information about how major online services actually operate and manage risk.
Addressing Broader Social Risks
Beyond the basics, OpenAI will need to address risks tied to fundamental rights, public security, and elections, all part of a broader effort to reduce harm from widely used digital services.
When Will the New Requirements Take Effect?
The European Commission has given ChatGPT until the end of December 2026 to comply with the added obligations that come with its new VLOSE designation, giving OpenAI several months to make the necessary changes and prove they’re meeting the requirements.
Final Thoughts
This shift in ChatGPT’s EU status signals greater oversight of AI services, with potential benefits like stronger safety measures and more transparency, especially around risks to minors. As regulations evolve, Core Solutions and Services can help your business stay informed. Get in touch with us today for more information!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is ChatGPT banned in the EU?
No. The new designation does not ban ChatGPT. It places additional regulatory responsibilities on OpenAI under the DSA.
- Will the new rules change how I use ChatGPT?
The exact user-facing changes are not yet clear. However, the rules are intended to improve safety, transparency, and risk management.
- Does the DSA apply only to ChatGPT?
No. The DSA applies to many online services. The EU has designated numerous very large online platforms and search engines that meet its user threshold.