New Unified Ticket for Mallorca: Applications Open from October

Starting this fall, the city and region will introduce a unified card for buses and trains. What this means for commuters, students, and tourists — and what remains unclear.

One card for everything: Finally a little less clutter in your wallet

The news may sound banal, but for many here it's a small relief: From October Mallorca will allow applying for a new unified ticket that covers EMT buses in Palma, the TIB regional buses, and trains. No more guessing which card to use at the machine, no second ticket for the suburban rail — that is the promise of the city and regional government.

Why it's practical

I stood last week in the morning at the Plaça d’Espanya and watched as people with two cards in hand switched between bus and train. That's not only impractical, it costs time — especially during shift changes or early university terms. With the new card, this small annoyance should disappear. Tourists also benefit: A clearer system means fewer questions for bus drivers and less chaos at the machines.

What has been valid so far — and what changes

Important to know: Those who already have a valid TIB card should not have to apply for a new plastic card, according to the announcement. The old gray Palma citizens card will remain valid only until the end of March 2026. After that, it's finished. Also, they're working on a digital smartphone version to be introduced next year — practical for everyone who likes to leave their wallet at home.

How and where to get the card

Officially, the application process starts in October. Likely there will be several ways: in-person issuance at sales outlets and hopefully also an online option. More details about required documents or fees are not yet set in stone. Tip: those who travel regularly should check from October — the first weeks could be busy at the counters.

Open questions

A few things remain unclear. What happens to annual or monthly passes currently valid? Will there be transitional rules? And how quickly will the switch to the smartphone solution work — especially in rural areas where the network is sometimes unstable? Experience shows: good technology is worth more than a fancy concept.

For commuters, families, students and many who travel daily between the suburbs and Palma, this is overall good news. It isn't a revolution — more of a practical step in the right direction. And yes: those standing at the bus stop in the morning will welcome anything that makes daily life easier.

I will keep watching the details and report as soon as the exact application routes and requirements are published. Until then: keep an eye out in October — and if you have two cards, keep them with you for a few more months.