Erasmus+ programme to offer 40.000 free travel passes to young people

DiscoverEU, an Erasmus+ programme focused on travel, is set to offer 40.000 free passes to 18-year-olds to use by September 2027. Applications are now open and the deadline to apply is April 22.

EU to offer youths free travel passes in 2026

From April 8 to 22, young people residing in the Netherlands can once again apply for a free travel pass made available by the European Commission. There are 40.000 available.

The pass gives young people the opportunity to travel Europe for a maximum of seven days within a period of one month. The authorised travel period runs from July 1, 2026, to September 30, 2027. The application site states that the ticket is valid for environmentally friendly transport, such as trains.

The offer is available to 18-year-olds. Applicants may be younger when they submit their application, but must be 18 by the time they plan to travel, and should be a citizen or resident of an EU country, EU overseas territory, Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia or Türkiye.

It is also possible to submit a group application for up to four people, provided all group members meet the requirements. Young people who would like to make new friends can combine plans with other DiscoverEU travellers via a Facebook group. 

Free pass comes with DiscoverEU discount card

Along with a free travel pass, successful applicants will also receive a DiscoverEU discount card, offering reduced rates on accommodation, cultural and sporting events, public transport and other services.

Young travellers are encouraged to share their journeys on social media and to give a presentation at their school or in their local community once they return.