Our hosts
YMCA Canada – in partnership with the YMCA of Greater Toronto – will be our hosts at the 21st YMCA World Council in July 2026. This was announced on 8 July 2022 at the 20th YMCA World Council in Aarhus, Denmark.
Save the date! 8 May 2025 Visa Application Information Webinar for YMCA World Council, Toronto (July 2026)
Join YMCA Canada for a 90-minute webinar on VISA application information for YMCA World Council 2026.
Applying for your visa early is one of the most important steps in ensuring a smooth journey to YMCA World Council 2026 in Toronto, Canada. Visa processing times can vary greatly depending on your country, and early preparation is key to avoiding last-minute stress or delays.
YMCA Canada is committed to ensuring that World Council 2026 is truly a global gathering, with representation from YMCAs across all regions. It recognizes that navigating visa requirements can be complex, which is why it is providing this information before ‘Early Bird’ registration opens in July 2025 —so you have the time and resources needed to apply successfully apply.
This session is designed to give you:
a clear overview of the visa application process for Canada
insights on timelines, required documents, and potential challenges
By planning ahead, you are not only securing your own participation but also strengthening the diversity and inclusivity of this event.
This session will provide key details and guidance to help delegates navigate the visa process smoothly.
For accessibility, the webinar will be offered in three separate sessions. Please register for the session in your preferred language, as live interpretation will not be provided.
Thursday, 8 May
9:00 AM EST (Toronto) – English
11:30 AM EST (Toronto) – French
2:00 PM EST (Toronto) – Spanish
Don’t miss this opportunity! Gain the information you need to successfully prepare for World Council 2026.
Can’t attend live? The webinar will be recorded and available afterward. Pre-register for World Council 2026 to access the recording and other essential resources: worldcouncil.ymca.int
Registration Fees & Travel Subsidies
The fees will be announced in April 2025, and will constitute an all-inclusive price (accommodation, food & excursions) covering the period from Sunday 19 to Saturday 25 July.
Following its Travel Subsidy Policy, World YMCA offers travel subsidies for two representatives for a National Movement which meets the eligibility criteria. There will also be youth subsidies available through the Change Agent programme.
World Council - Key dates
Details of the 21st World Council will be released as we approach the event, though key dates are:
6 February 2025 Pre-registration for visa purposes opens. Individuals can submit their information to be added to a communication list as details about documents for visa applications become available. Visa applications may take up to 12 months, so early action is advised.
21 July 2025 World Council ‘Early-bird’ registration launches. Event theme announced.
2025-2026 Gradual release of the event programme, including side events, speakers, partners, award processes, and excursions.
19 December 2025 ‘Early-bird’ registration ends.
1 January 2026 Standard-price registration begins.
17 June 2026 Standard-price registration closes.
Venue & Accommodation
The event will be held in the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Toronto, and accommodation is reserved for delegates in the Sheraton Hotel and the nearby Marriott Hotel.
20th YMCA World Council
Look back at the 20th YMCA World Council in Aarhus, Denmark, 4-8 July 2022: the website, and the final report.
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