The European Commission launched applications for 40,000 DiscoverEU passes on 8 April 2026. This scheme offers 18-year-olds up to 30 days of free train travel across Europe between July 2026 and September 2027. Applications close on 22 April.
Part of the Erasmus+ programme, this initiative helps participants visit several countries. It includes perks like travel discounts and community meet-ups.
Applications open for youth
The latest round is open to young people born between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2008. Applicants must complete a short quiz about the European Union, after which they are ranked for selection.
The programme is open not only to EU citizens but also to residents of countries associated with Erasmus+, including Iceland, Norway, Serbia, Türkiye, Liechtenstein and North Macedonia.
Successful candidates can travel mainly by train, with routes chosen independently or based on suggested itineraries. Travel can take place at any time within the programme window, which runs from 1 July 2026 to 30 September 2027.
Participants may travel alone or invite up to four friends, provided all meet the eligibility requirements.
Focus on culture, mobility
This programme helps young people travel, learn, and connect across borders. Participants visit cultural spots across the continent to experience different languages, traditions, and histories.
European Commissioner Glenn Micallef said that the programme gives young people the chance to “experience Europe by rail, discovering new cultures and gaining a deeper understanding of our shared values”.
He noted that for many, this trip is their first chance to travel on their own and meet people from other countries.
The 2026 edition focuses on support and fairness, matching other EU projects for young people.
Travel benefits, support
Selected applicants receive a free travel pass along with a discount card that offers reduced prices on transport, accommodation, food, cultural activities and sports.
Participants also gain access to pre-departure information sessions and organised meet-ups, where they can connect with other travellers and learn more about European destinations.
The programme includes themed routes such as the DiscoverEU Culture Route, which focuses on areas including architecture, art, theatre and design. Travellers are also free to create their own itineraries.
Support is available for participants with disabilities, health conditions or limited financial means. This may include additional funding or the option to travel with a companion.
Special arrangements are also in place for those travelling from remote regions, islands or overseas territories.
High demand since launch
DiscoverEU was launched in June 2018 following a request from the European Parliament. Since then, demand has remained strong.
More than 1.9 million people have applied for around 431,931 passes. According to post-travel surveys, 72% of participants travelled abroad by train for the first time during the programme.
More than two-thirds reported they would not have been able to afford the experience without the scheme.
Participants are encouraged to stay connected after their journeys by joining online groups and sharing experiences, with some taking on roles as programme ambassadors.
Border systems shape travel
The DiscoverEU programme runs during a period of change in Europe’s border management systems, including the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
The EES records the entry and exit of non-EU nationals travelling for short stays. It replaces passport stamping with a digital system that stores personal and biometric data.
Most DiscoverEU participants are EU citizens and can move within the Schengen area without being registered in the system. Travellers from associated non-EU countries may still be subject to EES checks when crossing external borders.
ETIAS is set to begin operations in the last quarter of 2026. It will require visa-exempt non-EU nationals to obtain travel authorisation before entering 30 European countries.
This timeline overlaps with the DiscoverEU travel period, meaning some participants from non-EU countries may need to apply for ETIAS before travelling.
An approved ETIAS authorisation is linked to a traveller’s passport and allows multiple short stays over a period of up to three years. Border officials will continue to verify entry conditions upon arrival.
Programme expands travel access
The DiscoverEU scheme continues to expand opportunities for young people to travel across Europe, with thousands of new passes offered each year.
By combining free travel, financial support and access to a wider network of participants, the programme aims to make cross-border travel more accessible to younger generations.
As applications remain open until 22 April, eligible candidates have a limited window to secure a place in the 2026 round and take part in a programme that has already drawn interest from millions across the continent.