This service is managed by Marine Services and Transportation
Concessionary travel
There are several schemes offering free or discounted travel for eligible residents. If you need help applying or would like a paper form please contact us.
National Entitlement Card
The National Entitlement Card (NEC) gives eligible people access to free bus travel and other travel concessions. Cards are available to people aged 5 to 21, people aged 60 and over, and eligible disabled people.
Free bus travel for under-22s
All young people aged 5 to 21 are eligible for free bus travel across Scotland. Parents or carers must apply on behalf of children aged 5 to 15. Young people aged 16 to 21 with an existing NEC or Young Scot card can add free bus travel using the Transport Scot Pass Collect app.
Related resources
Free bus travel for people aged 60 and over, and disabled people
Anyone aged 60 or over and eligible disabled people living in Scotland can travel free on any local bus service and scheduled long-distance coach services throughout Scotland. Concessionary travel is not available on tours, excursions, night services or other special services where a premium rate is charged.
Applying for a National Entitlement Card
Apply online at getyournec.scot or contact us for a paper form.
You will need to provide:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of address
- A recent passport-type photograph
- Proof of disability award (if applying as a disabled person)
Cards for people aged 60 and over do not expire. Disabled cards are renewed annually.
Related resources
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NEC online application form(opens in new tab)
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NEC paper application form
This document contains the March 2025 application form for a Scottish National Entitlement Card for people under 22, aged 60 or over, or with a disability. It explains the information, photographs, supporting proofs and signatures needed, including parental approval for some applicants. Forms and copies of documents can be submitted in person to Orkney Islands Council or emailed to transport@orkney.gov.uk; online applications are also available.
Please be aware that this summary has been generated using AI.
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NEC FAQs(opens in new tab)
Digital vouchers for internal ferry
Eligible permanent Orkney residents who meet the disability criteria, or who are aged 60 or over or aged 16 to 21, are entitled to four single journeys (two return trips) to the Scottish Mainland or Shetland per year. From 23 June 2025, this was extended to cardholders aged 19 to 21.
Vouchers are stored digitally on your NEC or Young Scot card and run from April to March each year. Download them using the Transport Scot Pass Collect app. Transport Scotland sends confirmation letters in March each year.
Free internal ferry travel for under-22s
From 1 April 2025, all young Orkney residents under 22 are eligible for free internal ferry travel with Orkney Ferries. You will need to show your Orkney Islands Council issued Young Scot or National Entitlement Card.
Related resources
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Under 22 free internal ferry poster
This document contains information about free inter-island ferry travel for people under 22 who live in Orkney and hold an Orkney Islands Council-issued National Entitlement Card or Young Scot card. Passengers should show their card to Orkney Ferries staff. Visitors from outside Orkney can get junior fares by showing a valid Young Scot or Scottish National Entitlement Card.
Please be aware that this summary has been generated using AI.
Isles Residents Concessionary Travel Scheme
Permanent residents of the outer isles who hold a National Entitlement Card and are aged 65 or over, or hold a valid Disabled NEC, are eligible for the Isles Residents Concessionary Travel Scheme. The scheme covers residents of Eday, Egilsay, Flotta, Graemsay, Hoy, North Ronaldsay, Papa Westray, Rousay, Sanday, Shapinsay, Stronsay, Westray and Wyre. Holiday homes do not qualify.
The scheme provides 24 single trips per year with Orkney Ferries. Residents of Papa Westray and North Ronaldsay can use their NEC on the air service instead.
A Smartcard is issued which is automatically reloaded each year. Treat it with care. Replacement charges may apply for lost or damaged cards.
Related resources
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Isles residents concessionary travel scheme application form
This document contains an application form and guidance for the Orkney Ferries local concessionary Smartcard. It explains that people aged 65 or over, or disabled people with a valid National Entitlement Card who permanently live on an eligible island, may receive 24 single ferry trips each year. Disabled applicants must provide recent proof of eligibility. The form also covers required details, declarations, processing times and how Orkney Islands Council uses and protects personal data.
Please be aware that this summary has been generated using AI.
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Isles residents concessionary travel scheme leaflet
This document contains information about the isles residents concessionary travel scheme operated by Orkney Islands Council. The scheme provides eligible permanent residents aged 65 or over, or those meeting disability criteria, with 24 single trips per year for local ferry or inter-island air travel. Cardholders must carry their personal smartcard when travelling to access free trips and avoid paying standard non-refundable fares. You can contact the Transportation Service by calling (01856) 873535 or emailing transport@orkney.gov.uk for help with lost cards, changes in circumstances or further details.
Please be aware that this summary has been generated using AI.
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Local concessionary travel scheme policy
This document contains Orkney Islands Council’s local concessionary travel scheme, which supports older and disabled island residents who can’t use Scotland’s free bus scheme. Eligible people may receive up to 24 single ferry or air journeys each year, with some companion and vehicle travel included, while registered community transport users may receive three free return trips each month. It explains eligibility, required proof, how entitlements are issued and their yearly limits.
Please be aware that this summary has been generated using AI.
Community Transport concessionary travel
Orkney residents who hold a National Entitlement Card and are aged 60 or over, or are disabled, are entitled to three return trips per month on eligible community transport schemes such as Dial-a-Bus. This entitlement is for social and leisure trips only, including shopping, visiting friends, lunch clubs, physical activities and church. It does not cover trips for work, education or medical purposes.
Other discount schemes
Air Discount Scheme
A 50% discount on core air fares for eligible residents of remote Highlands and Islands communities.
Related resources
NorthLink Ferries Islander Scheme
Discounted fares for permanent residents of Orkney and Shetland.
Related resources
Highland Railcard
Discounted rail travel for those living in the Highlands.
Related resources
Contact us
Transport team
Scapa, Orkney, KW15 1SD