FollowEurope is at your feet. Take the first step…. With DiscoverEU!
What is DiscoverEU?
DiscoverEU is a programme of the European Union that gives you the opportunity to discover Europe. Travelling predominantly by rail, you will discover Europe’s stunning landscapes and its variety of cities and towns. You can apply during the two application rounds, which take place each year – the first round starting on Thursday 7th April 2022. Successful applicants are awarded with a travel pass to take them around Europe.
As an 18-year-old resident of the European Union, DiscoverEU offers you the opportunity to participate in a travel experience that will enable you to explore Europe’s diversity, learn about its cultural heritage and history, and connect with people from all over the continent. Furthermore, DiscoverEU enables you, as a young person, to develop life skills of value to your future, such as independence, confidence, and openness to other cultures.
NEW THIS YEAR! The first application round of 2022, the selected participants will receive a DiscoverEU discount card with discounts on cultural visits, learning activities, sports, local transportation, accommodation, food etc.
When is the next round?
More than 130 000 young people have been awarded a travel pass since the first application round in June 2018. Another round will take place for Irish citizens between Thursday 7 April 2022 at 11:00am and Thursday 21 April 2022 at 11:00am.
To be eligible, you need to:
- be born between 1 July 2003 (included) and 30 June 2004 (included) (Are you too young to participate in this round? Don’t worry! There will be a round in autumn as well as in spring every year).
- complete the correct identity card (ID), passport or legal residence card number on the online application form.
- be legally resident*, at the time of the selection decision, of one of the following countries:
- One of the Member States of the European Union including Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) .
- One of the third countries associated to the Erasmus+ programme: Iceland, Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Turkey.
Then you will need to participate in a quiz (unless you apply as a group member).
If you are selected, you can travel for a period of minimum 1 day and up to 30 days between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023.
Note that if you have a disability or a health problem that makes your travel challenging, you will receive assistance and support to help you take part in the programme. Check our FAQ C.13 to know more.
Can I travel with my friends?
Yes you can! It really is up to you. You can go solo or add up to 4 friends in your group provided they meet the eligibility conditions above. They will use your application code to submit their own application. Check out our FAQs B.5 to B.11 to know more.
You can also combine travel plans with other DiscoverEU travellers! The DiscoverEU Facebook Group is a good platform to do this. Join the Group now to chat with other participants.
Once you are selected, the Erasmus+ National Agencies will help you connect and learn, with the organisation of pre-departure meetings and travellers Meet-ups.
‘There is a whole world out there. Pack your backpack, your best friend and go.’
For more information you can visit the DiscoverEu website here.
If you have any issues or questions, reach out to me at colm.markey@europarl.europa.eu or find me on Social media and reach out!
