FAQ

Where are we going?

What type of lodging will there be in Lisbon? 

How will we get around?

Are any meals covered?

How do I sign up?

Part 1: Complete the registration form at aoaj.org/wyd. 
Part 2: Complete a background check and safe environment training (view section below).
Part 3: Any additional communication will be shared directly with the registrants.

Are there group registration incentives, such as free spots?

Yes! For every 10th paid slot, an 11th is free.

When should I apply for or renew my passport?

Now! Due to the pandemic and recent worker shortages, the process takes longer than usual (up to several months).

What ages may attend?

World Youth Day is for youth and young adults ages 15-35 at the time of the trip.

What about adult chaperones? 

Adult chaperones over the age of 35 must be actively and demonstrably involved in some type of youth- or young adult-related ministry at the parish level. Adults who attend World Youth Day have the understanding that they are traveling as chaperones and will be expected to follow the group itinerary.

What is the payment schedule?

UPDATED: A $500 deposit is due August 1, 2022. The remaining funds are due in two deposits: Dec. 1, 2022, and March 15, 2023.

When is the registration deadline?

Initial registrations at the advertised price point are due August 1, 2022. Later additions (after August 1, 2022) are possible but are entirely dependent on flight availability and may incur an additional cost.

When is the last day I can add someone?

Any additions after August 1, 2022, are possible but entirely dependent on flight availability and may incur an additional cost. Final payments for all participants are due March 15, 2023. 

Can I swap out my name for someone else’s after the deadline?

Swapping out a name after the final payment date is not often possible because of airline policies. Sometimes airlines make special event policies around WYD. However, if you can buy a separate ticket to the final destination, it is possible to substitute your name for the land travel portion.

Can I add a personal trip to the beginning or end of the trip?

Yes, there is an option to purchase the “Land Only Package” of the trip. Anyone who arrives early or stays late is responsible for arranging flights and transportation to/from the hotel if flights don’t arrive/depart at the same time.

What if I get sick or have to cancel my trip?

Trip cancellation insurance is available separately and is a requirement for AOAJ participants.

What about political unrest and what’s happening in Ukraine?

The trip cancellation insurance applies for ANY reason, including this.
 

Why do I need to complete a background check and Safe Environment TRAINING?

It is necessary to provide a secure environment for all minors involved during travel and throughout the event. The background check is not a credit check and remains completely confidential.

Does my 15- to 17-YEAR-OLD need a background check and Safe Environment training?

Participants ages 16-17 need a background check and will complete an age-appropriate version of the Safe Environment training (a link will be provided to registrants). Participants age 15 will complete the Safe Environment training only.

What if I’ve already done a background check or Safe Environment TRAINING through A parish or Archdiocese?

Background checks are renewed every five years, and Safe Environment training is renewed every two years. If both components are current through August 7, 2023, the parish may provide a memorandum to Jenny Michaelson in the Office of Safe Environment. 

Who pays for background checks?

All new background checks for World Youth Day will be processed and paid for by the Archdiocese of Anchorage-Juneau's Office of Safe Environment. They will be completed at no cost to the parish or the participant.