15 de junio de 2026
EU rail passenger rights explained: what every train traveller should know
A complete guide to EU Regulation 1371/2007 — when you can claim 25–50% compensation, your rights during delays and cancellations, and how to file a claim with European operators.
European train travel is fast, comfortable and increasingly popular — but delays and cancellations still happen. The good news: EU rail passenger rights give you strong legal protection when things go wrong.
This guide explains everything you need to know about Regulation (EC) No 1371/2007, including compensation amounts, time limits and how operators like Deutsche Bahn, SNCF, Renfe and Trenitalia must respond.
When do EU rail passenger rights apply?
EU rules apply to most rail journeys within the European Union, including:
- International cross-border trains between EU countries (e.g. Paris–Frankfurt TGV/ICE, Barcelona–Lyon AVE)
- Domestic long-distance services in EU member states
- Through-tickets covering multiple legs with connections
Some services may be exempt, including certain urban, suburban, regional or tourist/historic trains. Journeys from the EU to non-EU countries may also be partially exempt if most of the route is outside the EU.
Tip: Cross-border journeys between EU countries are never exempt — this is where TrainRefund focuses.
Compensation for delays: how much can you claim?
If you arrive at your final destination with a delay of 60 minutes or more, you may be entitled to compensation:
| Arrival delay | Compensation |
|---|---|
| 60–119 minutes | 25% of the ticket price |
| 120+ minutes | 50% of the ticket price |
This applies whether the delay was caused by a late departure, a missed connection or a cancelled train — as long as you arrive 60+ minutes late at your destination.
The railway company must pay within one month of your request.
What about cancellations?
If your train is cancelled and you arrive at your final destination with a delay of 60+ minutes (after rerouting or continuing your journey), the same 25%/50% compensation applies.
You also have the right to choose between:
- A full or partial refund of your ticket (within 30 days)
- Rerouting to your destination at no extra cost
- Continuing your journey at a later date of your choice
Other rights during disruptions
Beyond financial compensation, you are entitled to assistance when your train is delayed or cancelled:
- Meals and refreshments proportionate to the waiting time
- Hotel accommodation if an overnight stay is necessary (including transport to/from the hotel)
- Alternative transport if the operator does not offer rerouting within 100 minutes
These rights apply even when the operator claims “extraordinary circumstances” for the compensation exemption.
Extraordinary circumstances: when is compensation NOT paid?
Railway companies do not owe compensation if they can prove the disruption was caused by events they could not prevent, such as:
- Extreme weather or major natural disasters
- Cable theft, persons on tracks, sabotage or terrorism
- Certain third-party incidents
Important: Staff strikes are not considered extraordinary circumstances under EU law. Technical failures and operational issues generally are not either.
How long do you have to claim?
You should submit your complaint to the railway company within 3 months of the incident. The operator must reply within 1 month (or up to 3 months in justified cases).
National time limits for court action vary by EU country — some allow claims going back several years. However, filing promptly gives you the best chance of success.
How to claim compensation
- Gather your documents — ticket/booking confirmation, proof of delay if available
- Submit your complaint to the railway operator (or use the EU standard form)
- Escalate if needed — contact the national enforcement body in the operator’s country
- Or use a claims service — file your claim via TrainRefund and we handle the process on a no win, no fee basis
Which operators are covered?
EU rail passenger rights apply to all major European operators, including:
- Deutsche Bahn (Germany) — ICE, IC, EC international services
- SNCF (France) — TGV, Intercités, cross-border TGV
- Renfe (Spain) — AVE, long-distance and Barcelona–France routes
- Trenitalia (Italy) — Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, EuroCity
- Eurostar — EU station to EU station services
- NS (Netherlands) — international IC services
Start your claim today
Delayed or cancelled train? You may be entitled to 25–50% of your ticket price in compensation. File your claim in minutes — no win, no fee.