Visitor & short-stay visas
Vatican Visitor Entry (via Italy and Schengen)
With no border controls of its own, the State lets tourists and pilgrims enter its public areas freely from Italy under Schengen rules, needing no separate Vatican entry permission.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The introduction of ETIAS travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers entering Italy/Schengen (and therefore the Vatican) is an EU measure whose start date should be verified against official EU/Italian sources before publication; no figure is asserted here.
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.
- Official name
- No dedicated Vatican visitor visa; public access via Italy
- Route type
- Visa-free public access through Italy (Schengen Area)
- Border control
- None between Italy and Vatican City
- Entry document
- Whatever Italy / Schengen requires for your nationality
- Passport or, for some travellers, an approved Schengen visa or travel authorisation
Who it is for
- Tourists, pilgrims and day visitors to the public areas of the Vatican
- People attending papal audiences, liturgies or events in St Peter's
Requirements
- Lawful entry to Italy / the Schengen Area for your nationality
- A valid passport or accepted travel document as required by Italy
- Compliance with the dress code and security screening for religious sites and the Museums
What you can do
- Visit St Peter's Square and Basilica, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Attend public audiences and liturgical celebrations
- There is no separate Vatican stay period — your permitted stay is governed by your Italy / Schengen status
How to apply
- There is no Vatican application; meet Italy's Schengen entry requirements
- Book Vatican Museums and papal audience tickets separately through the official channels
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.