2026-10-03
Image: © European Union, 2026 · CC BY 4.0
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The autumn 2026 DiscoverEU application round is now open. The European Commission and EACEA plan to award around 40,000 young people with travel passes and discount cards, with applications accepted from 1 October until 15 October 2026 at 12:00 Brussels time.
The core age rule is simple: applicants must have been born between 1 January and 31 December 2008 and must meet the citizenship or residence criteria listed by the European Youth Portal. Applicants also need to provide a valid identity-document or residence-permit number and complete the application process, including the quiz requirements.
Successful applicants can travel between 1 March 2027 and 31 May 2028. The pass allows up to seven actual travel days within a maximum one-month travel period, primarily using rail, with exceptions for certain remote or island locations. A DiscoverEU discount card is also included for discounts on accommodation, culture, local transport and other services.
If you are eligible, do not leave the application until the final day. Use the official European Youth Portal, check the rules before submitting, and make sure your identity details match your document exactly. Results are expected in January 2027.
