Recent adjustments to access criteria now ensure “that more young people and youth organizations can actively participate, fostering mobility, sharing, and autonomy across the country,” stated the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Margarida Balseiro Lopes, in a government release.
The program, sponsored by Movy (the managing entity for Portugal’s national network of Youth Hostels and the European Youth Card) and CP — Comboios de Portugal, targets young individuals aged 18 to 30, as well as student and youth associations registered with RNAJ (National Register of Youth Associations).
Since the criteria expansion on the 20th, over 22,000 vouchers have been issued, bringing the total distributed in 2025 to approximately 28,000, nearing the annual limit of 30,000 vouchers.
The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports announcement notes that participants can travel free on trains and stay at Youth Hostels upon registration.
Interested young people and associations can claim a voucher on the organization’s official website until December 31st and use the benefits until July 4th, 2026.
The program, as detailed on the official initiative page, offers young people who completed the 12th grade in 2025 or who are aged 18 to 30 the chance to explore the cultural diversity and historical and natural heritage of their country via Youth Hostels and Portuguese Trains, enriching their travel and leisure experiences.
