Croatia to offer free rail travel for students, seniors, and more in 2025

Zagreb train station

Starting 1 January 2025, Croatia is extending its initiative of free public rail transport for specific groups, including children, students, seniors, and earthquake-affected residents.

The government has confirmed the scheme will run until 31 December 2025, making travel more accessible and affordable across the country, Croatian Railways (HŽ) has announced.

Who Is Eligible?

Here’s a breakdown of who qualifies and how to apply:

Children under School Age
Children can travel for free by presenting a valid identification document showing their date of birth.

Primary and Secondary School Students
Students must acquire an HŽ Passenger Transport smart card with an annual ticket loaded for second-class travel. To apply, submit:

A completed application form

A photo
Proof of enrolment for the school year
A fee of €2.65

Pensioners and Individuals Aged 65+
Seniors need an HŽ smart card. Required documents include:

An ID and/or proof of pension from HZMO
A completed application form
A €2.65 fee

University Students
Full-time students are eligible for free travel with an HŽ smart card. Submit the following:

A completed application form
A photo
Proof of enrolment for the academic year
A €2.65 fee

Residents of Earthquake-Affected Sisak-Moslavina County
From 1 January to 30 June 2025, residents of areas impacted by the 2020 earthquake can travel for free. Applicants must provide:

A completed application form
A photo
Proof of residency in specified towns and municipalities (e.g., Petrinja, Glina, Sisak)
A €2.65 fee

How to Apply

Applications for smart cards can be submitted at ticket counters or via email:

Children: [email protected]

Seniors: [email protected]

Students: [email protected]

Transition Period

Until 31 January 2025, eligible passengers can continue to use their existing smart cards or relevant documents to access free rail travel.

Cost and Validity

The annual card costs just €2.65 and covers unlimited second-class travel on all domestic HŽ routes. Cards must be renewed for the new year, but existing cardholders can simply update their profile at the ticket counter.

This initiative continues to support affordable transport options for Croatian residents while promoting sustainable travel. For more details, visit HŽ Passenger Transport’s official website.