From next week, people living in an EU country who are turning eighteen will be able to apply for a free Inter-rail ticket.
The European Parliament is opening the scheme up on a trial basis with 15 thousand free tickets on offer.
140 Irish people will be awarded the pass as part of the DiscoverEU initiative, which aims to promote the continent to young people.
Applications for the scheme open on the 12th of June at this link.
Dublin MEP Brian Hayes believes it'll give all young people the chance to travel around Europe.
As well as promoting tourism and enhancing social cohesion, he believes it will "also allow young people learn about other countries, make new friends and discover new opportunities".
“Europe needs to reach out to a younger generation. We need to move on from the failure of Brexit", he said.
The MEP also said "we need to invite young people to travel across Europe – their European Union and experience the idea of unity through diversity".
Who can apply?
You can only apply if you:
- are 18 years old on 1 July 2018 (born between 2 July 1999 and 1 July 2000 included);
- have the nationality of one of the 28 Member States of the European Union;
- fill in your ID or passport number on the online application form;
- start your journey in one of the EU 28 Member States;
- plan to start your travel between 9 July and 30 September 2018;
- plan to travel between 1 day and up to 30 days inclusive;
- plan to travel to at least 1 and up to 4 foreign country destinations within the EU;
- are willing to become a DiscoverEU Ambassador.
