Deutsche Bahn Delay Compensation Guide

Deutsche Bahn is a Germany train operator carrying 2 billion annually passengers. Under EU 2021/782, passengers delayed 60 or more minutes are entitled to financial compensation, regardless of the cause in most cases. Only 63.5% of Deutsche Bahn trains ran on time in 2024, meaning a significant share of passengers have a valid claim each year. Compensation starts at EUR 4 for delays between 60 and 119 minutes, and increases for delays of 120 minutes or more. Claims must be submitted within 90 days of travel. Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany's national railway operator and one of Europe's largest rail networks. Founded in 1994 after the merger of East and West German railways, DB carries approximately 2 billion passengers annually across Germany and international routes. This guide explains what you are owed, how to file, and what to do if your claim is denied.

Deutsche Bahn Compensation Amounts

The table below shows the compensation thresholds that apply under EU 2021/782. Amounts are based on the ticket price paid and the duration of the delay.

How to Claim Deutsche Bahn Compensation

1. Check your delay duration. Confirm your train was delayed by 60 minutes or more. Under EU 2021/782, the 60-minute threshold triggers your right to claim.
2. Gather your travel documents. Collect your ticket, booking confirmation, and any receipts for additional expenses caused by the delay.
3. Submit your claim to Deutsche Bahn. File your claim within 90 days of travel via the Deutsche Bahn claim portal. Visit: https://www.bahn.de/fahrgastrechte
4. Wait for the response. Deutsche Bahn must respond within 30 days. If your claim is rejected, you can escalate to your national rail regulator.

Popular Deutsche Bahn Routes

Delay compensation applies on all Deutsche Bahn routes. The following routes are among the most travelled and most likely to experience delays.

• berlin to munich
• hamburg to berlin
• frankfurt to munich
• amsterdam to berlin

Your Rights with Deutsche Bahn

Under EU 2021/782, your right to compensation is statutory. Deutsche Bahn cannot waive this right through its own terms and conditions. If your train is delayed by 60 minutes or more at the final destination shown on your ticket, you are entitled to a partial refund of your fare. A 60 to 119 minute delay entitles you to 25% of the ticket price. A delay of 120 minutes or more entitles you to 50%.

You have 90 days from the date of travel to submit your claim. Deutsche Bahn cannot reject your claim on force majeure grounds under the applicable regulation. Keep your ticket and booking confirmation as evidence.

If Deutsche Bahn rejects your claim or does not respond within 30 days, you can escalate to your national Alternative Dispute Resolution body or rail regulator. Filing a complaint costs nothing and the operator is obliged to participate in the process. See our how it works guide, the FAQ, and our full list of operators for more detail.