Canary Islands Free Public Transportation Initiative

Overview

On October 16, 2025, the Canary Islands government and the Gran Canaria Island Council officially agreed to offer free public transportation across Gran Canaria for the entire year.

This move is part of a broader effort to boost mobility and make commuting more accessible, especially amid ongoing economic recovery and social support programs inspired by recent national measures.

Policy Details

• The scheme aligns with Spain’s wider policies to make public transport more affordable by covering 100% of the cost for specific travel cards, such as:
  • Resident Card
  • Young Resident Card
  • Golden Resident Card
• The initiative is financed through a combination of national funds, exceeding 120 million euros allocated in February 2025, aiming to encourage more residents to choose eco-friendly commute options.

Implementation and Transparency

• The scheme’s implementation involves meticulous record-keeping by transport providers to verify usage and ensure transparency, including safeguarding personal data.
• The agreement emphasizes clear communication about the funding source, highlighting the role of the Spanish government in supporting sustainable mobility.

Context and Past Efforts

This coordinated effort comes after previous agreements in 2023 and 2024, reflecting ongoing commitment to a greener, more equitable transportation system.

Benefits

• For expats and residents alike, this measure offers a significant boost for daily travel, reducing costs and fostering increased use of public transport in one of Spain’s most tourism-dependent regions.