Irish 18-Year-Olds Urged to Snap Up Free EU Travel Passes – 40,000 on Offer
Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú is urging young people across Ireland to apply for one of 40,000 free travel passes available through the European Commission’s DiscoverEU initiative.
Irish 18-year-olds can apply individually or in groups of up to 5.
The European Commission and Interrail have teamed up to give 40,000 young Europeans free rail passes so that they can travel across the EU by rail, experiencing Europe’s rich cultural diversity, heritage, and traditions.
Successful applicants will receive a travel pass valid for up to 30 days of travel between 1 March 2026 and 30 April 2027 across the EU. The programme is open to those turning 18 this year.
Apart from getting free rail travel across the EU, those who get accepted will also be offered discounts on cultural visits, accommodation, local transport, and other services throughout Europe.
The Ireland South MEP, Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, described it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for young people to travel, learn and connect with others across Europe. She encouraged young people to apply,
“For many Irish students turning 18 this year, this is an opportunity to explore Europe, experience new languages, culture, and traditions. Parents, teachers, and youth organisations also have a vital role in ensuring this opportunity reaches every community – from city schools to rural towns – so that no young person misses out.”
Applications are open until the 13th of November 2025 at 12:00 (CET) via the European Youth Portal:
https://youth.europa.eu/discovereu_en
About the DiscoverEU Initiative
DiscoverEU is an action of the Erasmus+ programme, launched in 2018 by the European Commission. Its goal is to empower young Europeans to explore their continent, primarily by train, promoting sustainable travel and a sense of European identity.
Since its inception, over 370,000 young people have received DiscoverEU passes, with thousands from Ireland benefiting from the programme. This latest round marks another milestone in the EU’s commitment to youth mobility and inclusion.
Key Information for Applicants
Eligibility: Applicants must be born between 1 January and 31 December 2007 and hold nationality or legal residence in an EU Member State or Erasmus+ programme country.
Group applications: Eligible applicants may form groups of up to five people.
