Residents with an income of up to 100% of the social minimum income level can now apply for Dal Vrij Limburg through a new digital portal.
Most residents receiving social assistance benefits have already been able to register for the scheme, and many are already using it. They received a letter from their municipality and could use this letter to claim the Arriva Dal Vrij Limburg travel pass.
So far, nearly 27,000 passes have been requested by Limburg residents receiving social assistance benefits. There is also a smaller group of residents whose income falls within the eligibility threshold, but who do not receive social assistance. They can now apply for the programme as well.
Two-phase rollout
The application process is being introduced in two phases:
- From 29 June, residents of the municipality of Maastricht can use the digital portal.
- From 14 July, the portal will open to residents of all other municipalities in Limburg.
This phased approach allows organizers to review initial experiences and quickly implement any necessary improvements.
Applications include a digital income assessment to determine whether applicants meet the eligibility requirements for Dal Vrij Limburg.
Cooperation with Qii
The income assessment and digital portal are managed by Qii, an organization specialized in these services. Qii will evaluate applications on behalf of the Province of Limburg and Arriva. Income data is not shared with the Province of Limburg or Arriva and is used solely for eligibility assessment.
Free travel during off-peak Hours
With Arriva Dal Vrij Limburg, low-income Limburg residents can travel free of charge on Arriva buses and trains within Limburg during off-peak hours. On weekends and public holidays, the pass is valid throughout the entire day.
On weekdays, Arriva Dal Vrij Limburg is valid outside peak travel hours:
- From 00:00 to 06:30
- From 09:00 to 24:00
The scheme is designed to make travel easier and help people participate more fully in society. Arriva operates the programme on behalf of the Province of Limburg, in cooperation with Limburg municipalities.
Clear information for applicants
The Arriva and Qii websites are closely integrated. Applicants receive step-by-step guidance about the scheme, eligibility requirements, and the application process, ensuring they know exactly what to expect.
Chellie Soons, Regional Director of Arriva Limburg, welcomed the next phase:
“With the new digital portal, we are making it possible for all people in Limburg with a low income — up to 100% of the social minimum — to benefit from Dal Vrij Limburg. Together with all involved partners, we are making public transport in Limburg even more accessible.”
First year of Dal Vrij Limburg a major success
Dal Vrij Limburg has clearly met an important need. An evaluation among users showed that 91% of participants is satisfied with the scheme. More than half travel by bus or train at least once a week.
Many users report that Dal Vrij Limburg makes it easier to visit family and friends, attend healthcare appointments, or participate in activities. As a result, the scheme helps people take a full part in society.
Jasper Kuntzelaers, Chief Executive for Culture, Mobility and Agriculture for the Province of Limburg, said:
“For many people, transportation is not something they can take for granted. Without reliable transport, this group struggles to get to work, school, healthcare appointments, or visit family. With this step, we are making the scheme more accessible to Limburg residents with the lowest incomes. This helps more people travel independently and participate in society. The fact that more than 27,000 Limburg residents have already applied for a pass, and that users are so positive about the scheme, shows that we are meeting a genuine need. That is exactly why we started this initiative.”
More information and online application:
Arriva’s website.
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