German-Polish youth ticket for train journeys comes closer - New German-Polish Youth Rail Pass to Launch in Summer 2026
A new German-Polish youth rail ticket, inspired by the German-French Friendship Pass, is set to launch in summer 2026. The initiative aims to make cross-border travel easier for young people between these two countries. Both Germany and Poland have been working on the project for years, with funding now secured and key details under discussion. The idea of a joint rail ticket for young travellers between Germany and Poland has been discussed for several years, with the Bundestag's budget committee allocating âŹ5.8 million to the project in 2024. The push gained further momentum when German and Polish transport ministers reaffirmed their support during government consultations on December 1, 2025. The planned German-Polish Friendship Pass follows the model of the German-French Friendship Pass, introduced in 2023, which allowed people aged 18 to 27 to travel freely between France and Germany for six months. Now, a similar offer is being developed for young travellers between Germany and Poland. As of January 2026, negotiations are ongoing between the German Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMDV), Deutsche Bahn (DB), and Polish State Railways (PKP Intercity). Key points still under discussion include pricing, validity periods, and the specific cross-border routes covered. Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, confirmed that talks with Polish authorities and rail operators are focused on ticket allocation, terms of use, and the number of passes each country will provide. Andrea LĂźbcke, a Green Party member of the Bundestag, described the progress as an important signal for young people in Brandenburg and Poland. The ticket is expected to encourage greater mobility and cultural exchange between the two neighbouring countries. The German-Polish Friendship Pass is scheduled to become available in summer 2026, offering young travellers a new way to explore both countries by rail. The project builds on existing cross-border travel schemes while addressing practical details to ensure smooth implementation.
