Socialist Party challenges Green Railway Pass reservation rules

The Socialist Party (PS) is calling on the Portuguese government to revise the rules for the ‘Passe Ferroviário Verde’ (Green Railway Pass) regarding its use on Intercidades trains. Lawmakers argue the current system hinders travel planning and forces passengers to seek road alternatives.

A primary point of contention is the reservation window. Currently, users of the pass must reserve a mandatory second-class seat within only 24 hours of the train's departure. Socialist deputy Pedro do Carmo described the difficulty of securing a seat as being ‘almost a lottery,’ noting that passengers often have to remain constantly connected to digital platforms to catch available spots, particularly during high-demand periods on Fridays and Sundays.

The party highlighted that these restrictions disproportionately affect students and young people. They have also requested information regarding the reduction of carriages and whether the government intends to increase the allowed reservation lead time and reinforce seat availability during peak hours.