Residence & citizenship
Vatican Residence Authorisation in Vatican City State
Permission to live within Vatican City State, granted to those whose office, service or family ties justify it rather than being open to general applicants.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The figure of 458 residents inside the walls including about 120 Swiss Guards is drawn from the Governorate's stated population page; confirm it is the current year's figure before publication.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Vatican City government website before you apply.
On this page
- Official name
- Residence authorisation under the Law on Citizenship, Residence and Access (2011)
- Route type
- Office / service, family or discretionary (papal) residence
- Issuing authority
- Governorate of Vatican City State
- Residents inside the walls
- 458, including about 120 Swiss Guards
- Governorate figure; year to confirm
Who it is for
- Office-holders and staff of the Holy See or the State whose role requires them to live in the Vatican
- Family members of citizens residing in the State
- People granted residence by direct papal permission
Requirements
- A qualifying reason — office, service, family tie or papal permission
- Authorisation issued by the Governorate
- Compliance with the State's lodging rules
What you can do
- Reside in the State for the duration of the qualifying reason
- Residence ends when the office, service or authorisation ceases
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.