EU introduces a single train ticket: what will change for passengers

The European Commission is launching a large-scale reform of rail transport aimed at simplifying travel between EU countries. Passengers will be able to purchase a single ticket for the entire route even if the trip involves several carriers, and in case of delays, they will receive additional guarantees and compensation. Euronews reports on this referring to a new set of passenger rules presented by the European Commission.

The single train ticket will unite European carriers

The initiative is called “One Journey – One Ticket.” It aims to create a unified booking system for international train journeys within the European Union.

Thanks to the new rules, passengers will be able to make one booking for the entire route regardless of the number of railway companies involved in the transport.

The European Commission believes that this will eliminate one of the main problems of European railways – the fragmentation of booking systems between different countries and carriers.

According to the EU, today every fifth international train journey cannot be purchased with a single ticket due to technical limitations between operators. For routes longer than 900 kilometers, this problem affects more than half of all trips.

What compensation will passengers receive

The new package strengthens passenger rights in case of delays or cancellations of trips.

If the train is delayed by 60-119 minutes, the passenger will be able to receive compensation of 25% of the ticket price.

In case of a delay of two hours or more, the compensation will increase to 50% of the ticket price.

Moreover, carriers will be required to offer an alternative route, provide necessary assistance, and if needed, arrange accommodation for passengers.

Why the EU decided to change the ticket sales system

The push for reform was prompted by numerous complaints from travelers. According to a 2025 Eurobarometer survey, a quarter of Europeans face difficulties when booking international train routes.

Furthermore, 43% of respondents admitted that they completely refrain from such trips due to the necessity of using several different services and applications.

Members of the European Parliament also criticize large national railway companies for limiting access to ticket information for independent sales platforms. According to the authors of the reform, this hinders competition and complicates planning international travels.

The new package will continue previous reforms in the EU railway sector and aims to bring about the creation of a single European market for passenger transport.

Let’s recall that the European Commission confirmed the receipt of a letter from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, which discusses advancing Ukraine towards membership in the European Union.