60,000 young adults will have the opportunity to travel around Europe

EU citizens between the ages of 18 and 20 can apply to receive travel passes as part of the DiscoverEU initiative

From 12 October until 26 October at 12:00 (CEST), young Europeans can apply to receive a travel pass that will allow them to explore Europe between March 2022 and February 2023. More specifically, as part of the European Union’s DiscoverEU initiative, 60,000 young adults will have the opportunity to travel across the continent for a period of 1-30 days.

As its name suggests, DiscoverEU has been designed to help young people discover the beauty, history, and diversity of Europe. What is more, it gives young EU citizens the chance to take advantage of the freedom of movement and connect with people from all over the continent. Beyond this, it helps them develop key life skills such as independence and confidence, among others.

Who is eligible to apply?

To apply for the October 2021 round, applicants must be between 18 and 20 years of age. In particular, they must be born between 1 July 2001 (included) and 31 December 2003 (included). In addition to this, they must have the nationality of an EU member state and a valid ID or passport.

Due to the outbreak of COVID, this year’s application round will be open to more people as those who could not apply in 2020 will now be able to do so. Taking this further, UK nationals will also be allowed to apply despite Brexit.

Flexible travel due to COVID

Successful applicants will get the chance to travel predominantly using rail, although exceptions will reportedly be made for those living in remote locations such as islands. Young Europeans can choose to travel alone or in groups of up to 5 people for a period of 1-30 days between 1 March 2022 and 28 February 2023.

In response to COVID and the unpredictable travel restrictions, the EU has prepared a mobile travel pass that will give young travellers flexibility. In other words, they will be able to make changes to reservations and departure dates.

It is important to note that applicants who have disabilities or health problems can ask to receive assistance and support during their travels. In this way, the EU ensures that people of all abilities can take part in this initiative.