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.

Speaker at podium at Ignite YMCA World Council event, Aarhus, Denmark, July 2022.

Visa Application Information for YMCA World Council 2026

Planning to attend YMCA World Council 2026 in Toronto, Canada? One of the most important steps to ensure a smooth journey is applying for your visa early. Visa processing times vary significantly by country, so early preparation is key to avoiding last-minute delays or complications.

YMCA Canada is dedicated to making World Council 2026 a truly global gathering, with representation from all regions. To support this, key visa application information has been made available ahead of the ‘Early Bird’ registration opening in July 2025 — giving you the time and tools you need for a successful application.

A recent 90-minute webinar hosted by YMCA Canada provided:

  • A clear overview of the Canadian visa application process

  • Insights on timelines, required documents, and common challenges

  • Guidance to help delegates plan ahead and ensure smooth travel

📌 Missed the live webinar?

The session was recorded and is available on demand. To access the recording and other essential resources, pre-register for World Council 2026 here:

Carlos Sanvee speaking on stage about the YMCA World Council, emphasizing global participation and learning from YMCA World Councils

Travel Subsidies

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.

The fees constitute an all-inclusive price (accommodation, food & excursions) covering the period from Sunday 19 to Saturday 25 July.

Ahead of the intended formal launch of ‘Earlybird’ registration on 21 July 2025, World YMCA announces that the registration fees for the 21st YMCA World Council in Toronto in July 2026 are:
Toronto skyline with tall buildings and CN Tower

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.

Registration Fees

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.

World YMCA logo in white text on a black background.

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