Do I need a Eurail or an Interrail Pass?
A Eurail Pass can only be used by non-European citizens or residents. European citizens can use an Interrail Pass instead, available from Interrail.eu. If you are not a European citizen but you can prove that you reside in Europe, you can also choose to use an Interrail Pass.
Still not quite sure? Fill in our handy Residency Tool to find out!
It will tell you if you need a Eurail or an Interrail Pass.
Proof of citizenship or residence
What can be used as proof of citizenship?
Your citizenship can be proved using a valid passport or an ID card. An ID card in this case is classed as an ID document that allows you to travel across borders. Train staff have the right to check your nationality, so make sure you always have your passport or ID card with you.
A driving license is not accepted as proof of citizenship.
What can be used as proof of residence?
If you're living in Europe and want to travel with an Interrail pass instead, you need to prove your residence with official government-issued residency papers. This must be a document that clearly shows that you are a resident of the country you live in (e.g. a residence card).
Your proof of residence will be accepted if:
It is issued by the government.
It is valid for the entire duration of your Interrail trip.
It has an official mark or stamp from the issuing body.
It clearly states the issuing country.
It clearly states your name.
All UK Tier 1 to 5 Visas and the Spanish NIE are accepted as a proof as residency.
Documents such as bills, rental contracts or bank statements cannot be used. Travel visas and the residency field of a passport are also not accepted as proof of residency.
Eurail and Interrail Pass holders can travel together, but keep in mind that the Interrail Global Pass is valid in more countries than the Eurail Global Pass.
Eurail or Interrail? Check out if any of these situations apply to you:
You can use a Eurail Pass. You won't be able to use an Interrail Pass. You must bring proof of citizenship.
You can use either an Interrail or a Eurail Pass. However, if you choose an Interrail Pass, it won't be valid in your own country of residence.
Example: You are a citizen of the U.S.A., but you live in Italy. If you choose to travel with a Eurail Pass, it'll be valid in all included countries. You must bring proof of U.S. citizenship. If you choose to travel with an Interrail Pass, it won't be valid in Italy. You'll have to bring official proof that you live in Italy.
You can use an Interrail Pass. This pass won't be valid in your own country.
Example: You're a citizen of Italy and you live in Italy. That means you can't use your Interrail Pass in Italy. On your trip, you'll have to bring proof of Italian citizenship or residency.
You can use either an Interrail or a Eurail Pass. However, if you choose an Interrail Pass, it won't be valid in your own country.
Example: You're a citizen of France, but you live in Australia. If you choose to travel with a Eurail Pass, it'll be valid in all included countries. You must bring official proof that you live in Australia. If you choose to travel with an Interrail Pass, it won't be valid in France. You'll have to bring proof of French citizenship.
Please note that an Interrail Pass can only be delivered to a European address.
Countries eligible for the Eurail Pass
You can use a Eurail Pass if you're a citizen or official resident of one of the following countries/areas:
| A
B
C
E
F
| G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
| O
Q
R
S
T
U
V
Y
Z |