FAQ

What is Interrail?

The Interrail pass is a European rail ticket which allows European residents to travel freely around Europe, by train, for up to a month. The pass offers the opportunity to experience new cultures and meet new people at a cheaper price! Whether it’s travelling through the Alps or along sandy beaches, east or west, the pass can be used all over Europe; in 30 countries. The pass allows you to travel to as many countries as you like within the Interrail connection, depending on your pass type and length.

 

What is the free Interrail pass?

The free interrail pass initiative is a proposal which would allow all 18 year olds to receive a free one month interrail pass on their 18th birthday with a validity of 6 years. Currently the European Commission are discussing the idea, and have decided to introduce a pilot scheme in 2018 with funding of 12 million Euros. The pilot scheme will involve giving away 15,000 free passes in 2018 to those who are 18 years old on the 1st July 2018. The pass will be valid between July and September 2018, and will allow youths to travel to up to four countries within 30 days.

 

Why are the EU giving away free Interrail passes?

At a time where there are questions surrounding the importance of the EU, this initiative is a bright light in helping to reinforce European solidarity amongst young people. The EU is hopeful that giving young people the opportunity to travel freely across Europe will introduce them to the EU’s territory and create more unity within the European Union for the future. The benefits will include increasing awareness of different cultures and allowing young people to discover how diverse Europe is; but also increasing a sense of common identity.

 

How can you apply for a free Interrail Pass?

You can apply for a free interrail pass via the European Youth Portal between the 12th and 26th of June 2018.

 

Am I Eligible?

You can apply for a free interrail pass if:

  • You are 18 years old on the 1st of July 2018
  • You are a national of an EU member state
  • You are willing to show motivation to visit at least one European Cultural Heritage Site – applicants will be given a quiz on EU Cultural Heritage, European Parliament Elections and Youth.
  • Applicants must also be willing to be an ambassador of DiscoverEU – meaning you would be willing to post about your experiences on social media and allow pictures to be used for the DiscoverEU anniversary photo exhibition at the European Parliament.

 

How many free passes will my country get?

The free passes are allocated based on the population of EU member states. This means that the UK are eligible for about 1900 free passes.

 

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