Every year the European Union opens a window for its youngest citizens to cross borders on a zero-cost ticket. The DiscoverEU programme hands out more than 40,000 complimentary travel passes to 18-year-olds, allowing them to experience the continent’s rich mosaic of cities, landscapes, and traditions. The call for applications closes at noon (Brussels time) on 15 October 2026, so interested young people must act quickly.
The eligibility criteria are straightforward: applicants must have been born between 1 January and 31 December 2008, inclusive, and must be citizens or legal residents of an EU member state, its overseas territories, or of a country linked to the Erasmus+ scheme (such as Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia or Turkey). During the online registration on, candidates provide a valid ID document—either a national identity card, passport number, or residence permit—and confirm the programme’s declaration. A short quiz is also part of the form; for group submissions, the team leader completes it on behalf of the whole party.
Eligibility and how to apply
To qualify, the applicant must satisfy the age window and residency requirements outlined above. The system automatically checks that the supplied identification matches the declared nationality. Once the form is submitted before the 15 October deadline, the selection process begins, and successful candidates will receive an email with their personal DiscoverEU pass. The programme also welcomes group applications, meaning friends can travel together if the entire group is chosen.
Using the pass – travel rules
The awarded pass grants access primarily to eco-friendly transport modes with a strong emphasis on rail travel. In exceptional cases—such as island residents or remote areas—other public-transport options may be permitted. Holders can activate the pass for any seven-day window within a one-month period, and they may do so at any time between 1 March 2027 and 31 May 2028. In addition to the ticket, travellers obtain a DiscoverEU discount card that unlocks reduced rates on accommodation, cultural venues, sports facilities, local transport, and a variety of services, making the
Suggested Culture Route and top stops
For those unsure where to begin, the programme proposes a pre-designed Culture Route. This itinerary stitches together cities celebrated for architecture, music, visual arts, theatre, fashion, folk traditions, and gastronomy. Among the highlighted destinations are Cork in Ireland and Valletta in Malta, both honoured as European Capitals of Culture, offering vibrant festivals and heritage sites. Lyon in France also features, praised for its progressive accessibility policies that benefit travellers of all ages and abilities. The route is flexible; participants can use it as a scaffold and tailor additional stops to match personal interests.
Group applications and extra discounts
When a group of friends submits a single application, the lead applicant completes the quiz and uploads the required documents for the whole team. If the group is selected, each member receives an individual pass and discount card, allowing them to journey together and share the savings on hostels, museums, and local transport. The programme also provides assistance to participants with disabilities or health conditions, ensuring that travel barriers are minimised through dedicated support.
With the deadline looming on 15 October 2026, eligible 2008-born youths should gather their documents, decide whether to apply solo or with friends, and submit their applications promptly to secure a spot on this unprecedented travel adventure.
