DiscoverEU: Free European Rail Passes for 18-Year-Olds (Autumn 2026 Application Round)
Applications are officially open for the Autumn 2026 round of DiscoverEU, an Erasmus+ initiative giving 18-year-olds the opportunity to explore Europe by train, discover its cultural heritage, and connect with peers across the continent.
What is DiscoverEU?
DiscoverEU is an initiative of the European Union’s Erasmus+ programme that offers young people the opportunity to travel, explore Europe’s diversity, learn about its cultural heritage and history, and connect with people from all over the continent.
Selected participants receive:
DiscoverEU Travel Pass: Travel predominantly by train across Europe (alternative transport modes are permitted in specific cases for island or remote regions).
DiscoverEU Discount Card: Access to discounts on accommodation, culture, sports, local transport, and various services throughout Europe.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible to apply, candidates must:
Age: Be born between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2008 (inclusive);
Citizenship / Residency: Be a citizen or legal resident of one of the following:
An EU Member State (including its outermost regions);
An Overseas Country or Territory (OCT) associated with the European Union;
A third country associated with the Erasmus+ programme: North Macedonia, Serbia, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Türkiye;
Identification: Provide a valid ID card, passport, or legal residence permit number in the online application form;
Agree to the terms and conditions outlined in the application declaration.
How It Works
Solo or Group Travel: You can travel independently or form a group of up to 4 friends, provided all members satisfy the eligibility criteria.
Travel Duration: Successful applicants can travel for anywhere from 1 up to 30 days within the authorized travel window between 1 March 2027 and 31 May 2028.
Inclusion & Support: Tailored assistance, dedicated arrangements, and additional funding are provided for participants with disabilities or health conditions that make travel challenging.
Selection Process: Applicants (or the designated group leader) must complete a brief multiple-choice quiz about Europe, European history, and EU youth initiatives.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online before the platform closure:
Official Application Portal:
Western Balkans Call Information:
Application Deadline: 15 October 2026 at 12:00:00 PM CET (midday Brussels time)