Europe at Your Feet: DiscoverEU Celebrates 40 Years of Schengen with 40,000 Travel Passes

Young Europeans eager to explore the continent will soon have a new opportunity, as the next round of DiscoverEU applications opens between April 8 and April 22, 2026. The initiative, part of the European Commission’s flagship Erasmus+ program, gives 18-year-olds the chance to travel across Europe while discovering its culture, history, and diversity.

The application window will run for two weeks, opening and closing at exactly 12:00 midday Brussels time. The round is scheduled just ahead of European Youth Week 2026.

What is DiscoverEU?

DiscoverEU offers selected participants a travel pass, primarily for train travel, allowing them to explore multiple European destinations in an environmentally friendly way. In special cases, such as participants living on islands or in remote regions, alternative transport options may be provided.

In addition to travel, participants receive a DiscoverEU discount card, unlocking reduced prices on accommodation, cultural activities, sports, and local transport services throughout Europe.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be born between July 1, 2007, and June 30, 2008
• Hold a valid ID, passport, or residence permit
• Be citizens or residents of EU Member States, overseas territory connected to the EU, or an associated country (Iceland, Norway, Serbia, Türkiye)
• Complete the online application
• Agree to all terms 
• participate in a quick (unless they apply as part of a group)

When Can You Travel?

Candidates who are approved can travel for up to seven days within a one-month period, anytime between July 1, 2026, and September 30, 2027. The flexible timeframe allows participants to plan their journeys around studies, work, or personal commitments.

Importantly, additional support is available for participants with disabilities or health conditions, ensuring the program remains accessible to all.

Travel Solo or With Friends

DiscoverEU allows participants to travel alone or in groups of up to five people. Friends can apply together using a shared application code, provided each member meets the eligibility criteria.

Participants are also encouraged to connect with others through online communities and meet-ups organized by Erasmus+ National Agencies, helping foster cross-cultural exchange and new friendships.

Photo: Shutterstock

Those selected automatically become DiscoverEU Ambassadors, invited to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #DiscoverEU or even present their journeys within their schools and communities.

DiscoverEU continues to be one of the EU’s most popular youth initiatives, offering not just travel, but a deeper connection to Europe’s shared identity, opening doors for young people to experience the continent firsthand—often for the first time.