European Commission offers 36 000 free EU travel passes to 18-year-olds
The European Commission (EC) said on April 2 that it has opened applications for a new DiscoverEU round, making nearly 36 000 travel passes available to 18-year-olds across Europe.
Successful applicants will be able to travel across Europe by train for up to 30 days between July 1 2025 and September 30 2026, discovering new countries, cultures and experiences, the EC said.
Applicants have to be born between July 1 2006 and June 30 2007, be residents from the EU and countries associated with the Erasmus+ programme, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia and Türkiye. Applications will close on April 16 at 12:00 CEST.
Candidates must apply via the European Youth Portal, completing a short quiz about the EU. Passes will be awarded to the top-ranked applicants until all tickets are distributed.
Travellers can design their own European journey or choose from suggested routes, the EC said.
“They may follow the New European Bauhaus Route, showcasing vibrant, sustainable cities, or choose the Green Route, taking them takes to some of the most sustainable cities and nature-friendly destinations across the continent,” the Commission said.
“This route features award-winning Green Capitals and Green Leaf cities, stunning parks, and nature reserves. Along the way, they can use a discount card packed with thousands of offers on transport, museums, food, accommodation, sports and more across 36 countries.”
DiscoverEU will make this experience accessible to all. Special support is available for participants with disabilities, health conditions or fewer opportunities. Additional arrangements are also offered to those living in remote areas, islands or outermost regions.
Launched in 2018 and integrated into the 2021–2027 Erasmus+ programme, DiscoverEU has already awarded over 355 000 travel passes. All participants are invited to join the #DiscoverEU official group, with over 106,000 members sharing experiences and tips.
(Photo: BDZ)
