While Vatican City is not a formal member of the Schengen Area, it is entirely accessible via Italy, a Schengen member state. Therefore, entry into Vatican City is governed by Italian and Schengen border regulations. This means that all visitors—regardless of their travel purpose or intended duration—must meet Schengen Area entry requirements.
Travellers from visa-exempt countries may soon be required to obtain ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) approval, with the system expected to launch in Q4 2026.
Vatican City can only be accessed via Italy. Accordingly, all travellers must:
While Vatican City does not issue its own visas, access is only possible through Italy. Therefore:
From late 2026, visa-exempt nationals (e.g. UK, US, Canada, Australia) will be required to obtain ETIAS authorisation before travelling to Vatican City via Italy
To enter Vatican City, non-Schengen nationals requiring a visa must apply for a Schengen visa through the Italian consulate or embassy in their country of residence. Required documentation includes:
Applicants are advised to apply between 6 months and 3 weeks before travel
Appointment requirements and availability vary by consular jurisdiction:
Vatican City does not issue national visas. Entry into the country depends on compliance with Schengen visa policy, which includes:
There are no long-stay visas specific to Vatican City. Long-term stays (e.g. religious work, residence within the Vatican) require special authorisation arranged through the Holy See.
What to Do if Your Visa to Vatican City (via Schengen) Is Refused
If your Schengen visa application is refused:
Note:
Actionable Instruction:
Travellers to Vatican City must ensure they meet Schengen entry criteria, either with a valid Schengen visa or ETIAS authorisation (from Q4 2026). For events like Jubilee 2025, obtain the appropriate Tourism-Jubilee visa through your sponsoring religious organisation. Always verify your eligibility through the Italian consulate or official travel portals before booking your trip. Travel with medical insurance and ensure your passport is valid for six months beyond departure.
For example, lightweight linen or cotton trousers are acceptable and adhere to Vatican dress code criteria. The all-weather, all-environment jeans are also acceptable, but you should take precautions when wearing shirts and shorts. A skirt is acceptable, but a little skirt is unacceptable.
St. Peter’s Square and Vatican City are free to enter and enjoy. To enter the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, an admission fee is required.
The Vatican requires a Schengen visa from all other visitors, regardless of the reason of their trip or the duration of their intended stay. To receive one, tourists must contact their nearest diplomatic government office of the Vatican in the host nation well in advance of their departure.
