- 09 November, 2026
New Delhi, November 9, 2026: The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) Commission for Youth has opened registrations for the official Indian delegation to the 41st World Youth Day (WYD), which will take place in Seoul, South Korea, in 2027. Young Catholics, priests, religious, youth animators and other lay faithful are invited to take part in the international gathering under the theme, “Take courage! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Established by Pope St. John Paul II in 1985, World Youth Day brings together young Catholics from across the world for prayer, fellowship, catechesis and an encounter with the universal Church. Seoul will host the event for the second time in Asia, following the gathering in Manila in 1995.
The pilgrimage is scheduled to run from 28 July to 9 August 2027, including the Days in the Diocese and the main World Youth Day celebrations. The Days in the Diocese will take place from 29 July to 2 August, followed by the main WYD events in Seoul from 3 to 8 August.
The CCBI Commission for Youth is coordinating the Indian contingent and has appointed Prime Pamper Hospitality Private Limited as its travel partner.
The package costs ₹1,50,000 per person and includes:
Participants can choose from seven departure hubs: Kochi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata. The preferred airport must be selected during registration and cannot normally be changed, although organisers reserve the right to make adjustments in exceptional operational circumstances.
Participation is primarily intended for young people aged 18 to 35, but priests, religious, youth leaders, animators and other lay faithful are also welcome.
Minors may participate subject to parental consent, the required legal documentation and assignment to an accompanying adult guardian within the delegation.
Registration opened on 1 November 2026 and closes on 4 December 2026. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis upon receipt of the initial deposit of ₹30,000, which is strictly non-refundable.
The remaining package amount can be paid in instalments:
Korean visa fees and VFS service charges are not included and must be paid separately. Visa approval remains at the discretion of the Korean authorities.
Applicants must hold an Indian passport valid beyond March 2028 and submit a signed endorsement letter from their Diocesan Youth Director. A bishop’s recommendation will also be required during the visa application process. Priests must provide a valid Celebret or priest identity card.
Those who do not yet have a valid passport are advised to apply immediately to allow sufficient time for the visa process.
Organisers have reminded pilgrims that WYD is a spiritual pilgrimage rather than a leisure tour. Participants should be prepared for extensive walking, summer heat and humidity, and simple communal accommodation arranged by the local organisers.
For registration assistance and further information, pilgrims may contact Fr. John Barman MSFS on 9954706597 or travel coordinator Antony Judy on 9020921061.
The CCBI Commission for Youth has encouraged dioceses and parishes across India to prepare their young people for the journey, inviting them to experience the faith, friendship and unity of the universal Church in Seoul.
Steps to Start the Process:
Step 1 : Click here for the Online Registration Form
Step 2 : Click here for the Official Circular & Endorsement Template
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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