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Free social passes for students and the elderly are one of the measures implemented by the government to promote accessible mobility and support the most vulnerable groups. This program, in various regions of the country, allows easy access to public transport. Learn who can benefit, how it works and the steps to join the program in 2025.
Who is entitled to the free social pass?
In 2025, the eligible categories are:
- Students:
- Age equal to or less than 23 years old;
- Enrolled in educational establishments recognized by the Ministry of Education;
- Residents in regions covered by the program.
- Elderly:
- Age equal to or over or more;
- Resident in Portugal;
- Income less than the limit defined by regional or local legislation.
- Other categories (depending on the region):
- People with reduced mobility;
- Beneficiaries of other social programs.
How does the free social pass program works?
The program is integrated in public transport systems of major cities and metropolitan areas. The free pass allows the unlimited use of buses, suburban, metropolitan and electrical trains in defined areas.
- Cities covered: Porto, Faro, and other metropolitan and intercity areas.
- Validity: Usually issued for a period of 12 months, renewable annually.
- Modalities: Some passes may include additional discounts for intercity travel or special connections.
How to join the program in 2025?
- Necessary documents:
- Identification document (citizen card or identity ticket);
- Proof of residence (certificate issued by the Parish Council);
- Declaration of registration in the educational establishment (for students);
- Proof of income (for the elderly, when applicable).
- Application channels:
- In person: At the service stations of transport operators or municipal councils.
- Online: Through the official program portal or website of the participating municipalities.
- Deadlines:
- Applications can be made all year round, but it is advisable to renew the pass before maturity to avoid interruptions in use.
Program advantages
- Accessible mobility: Cost reduction for families and elderly with limited budget.
- Sustainability: Incentive to the use of public transport, contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions.
- Inclusion: Facilitates access to services, education and social activities.
News for 2025
- Program Expansion: New regions and transportation operators are joining the program.
- Digitization: Introduction of digital format passes for use through mobile applications.
- Automatic exemption: Beneficiaries registered in other social programs can be included automatically.
Conclusion
The free social passage program for students and the elderly is a measure that promotes equity and sustainability. If it belongs to one of the eligible categories, find out and guarantee your pass to enjoy more accessible mobility by 2025.
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