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New TEL TSI enters into force
The new TEL TSI establishes common requirements for data sharing, passenger information and ticketing, creating a harmonised framework for interoperable data exchange across the European rail system.
Publication and entry into force
On 2 March 2026, Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026/253 of 6 February 2026 on a technical specification for interoperability relating to the telematics subsystem of the rail system in the European Union (“TEL TSI”) entered into force. The Regulation is available at: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2026/253/oj/eng.
The TEL-TSI sets common requirements for data sharing, passenger information, ticketing and digital freight services, establishing a harmonised framework for interoperable data exchange across the European rail system. It merges the previous telematics specifications for passenger services (TAP TSI) and freight services (TAF TSI) into a single regulatory framework consisting of the Regulation itself, its Annex and several ERA Technical Documents.
Implementation milestones
The implementation of the TEL TSI will take place gradually according to the milestones set out in its Annex (Appendix G). For the passenger retail and information functions, the following deadlines are particularly relevant for the each single point:
4.2.1 Passenger timetable data 14/12/2025*
4.4 Conditions of carriage 13/12/2026
4.6 Security elements for product distribution 13/12/2026
4.2.2 Connection times 12/12/2027
4.7 Passenger travel information 12/12/2027
4.3 Tariff data 10/12/2028
4.5 Availability and Reservations 10/6/2029
*Requirement already addressed under Delegated Regulation (EU) 2017/1926 (MMTIS).
The first milestone relevant for the passenger sector concerns the structured provision and digital availability of conditions of carriage, including information related to passengers with reduced mobility, as well as security elements for product distribution (ticket layouts and barcode standards). These requirements must be fulfilled by 13 December 2026.
Implications for the CIT Passenger Products
CIT is analysing the legal and practical implications of these provisions for the CIT passenger products. In particular, amendments to the Manual on International Rail Tickets (MIRT) will be examined, together with possible adjustments to other CIT instruments such as the General Conditions of Carriage for Rail Passengers (GCC-CIV/PRR) and the CIT Glossary.
Within the CIV Working Group, discussions will also address the concept of the Lead Railway Undertaking in the context of timetable data. The work will be coordinated with UIC and other competent sector bodies. CIT will support its members in understanding and implementing the new requirements, contributing to a smooth and coordinated transition.