To make a claim, you’ll need not only proof of the emotional distress caused by the delay, but also your ticket, the actual time of arrival and an understanding of the applicable rules. Europe is not the same as the EU, and certain services have exceptions.
Break down the possible requirements
The official Your Europe website distinguishes between refunds, re-routing, assistance and compensation. For flights covered by EU regulations, delay thresholds and exceptions are set out, including force majeure. Don’t assume you’re entitled to compensation based solely on a photo of the departure board: check your route, the reason for the delay and the course of action you’ve chosen.
Prepare a brief claim
Keep your ticket, proof of the delay and any necessary receipts. In your claim, specify the flight, the date, the scheduled and actual arrival times, and exactly what you are requesting. Submit it via the official channel within the specified timeframe. If your claim is rejected, read the explanation and the procedure for lodging a further complaint, without posting personal details in public comments.
See also: Online train tickets: how to check your booking before payment; Interrail or individual tickets: a simple way to compare.
Official sources
Your Europe: rail passengers’ rights. Check current services, prices and conditions for your travel dates; the photographs illustrate rail travel and do not confirm the composition of a specific service.
Image details
- ICE 4 Tz 9236 at Berlin Hauptbahnhof, 2024 (01).jpg — Bahnfrend; CC BY-SA 4.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. Licence terms can be found on the original page.
- Darmstadt Hbf mit ICE (2024).jpg — JoachimKohler-HB; CC BY-SA 4.0. The image has been resized and converted to WebP. Licence terms can be found on the original page.
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Questions and answers
Do EU rules apply to every train in Europe?
No, please check the scope of application and exceptions.
Are refunds and compensation the same thing?
No, they have different meanings and conditions.
What evidence should I provide?
Your ticket, details of your actual arrival, proof of the delay and relevant receipts.
Where should I submit my claim?
Through the carrier’s official channels, in accordance with its deadlines and procedures.