Work visas
Vatican Pontifical Swiss Guard Service
Military service protecting the Pope, open to unmarried Catholic Swiss men who meet the Guard's strict recruitment criteria.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The age range (about 19–30), minimum height (about 1.74 m) and minimum service length (commonly reported as around 26 months / two years) are widely cited but should be confirmed against the current figures on the Swiss Guard's official recruitment page 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.
- Official name
- Pontifical Swiss Guard (Guardia Svizzera Pontificia)
- Route type
- Military / security service to the Holy See
- Nationality
- Swiss citizens only
- Status
- Unmarried, practising Catholic men
- Age
- Approximately 19 to 30
- Figure to verify on the official recruitment page
- Minimum height
- Around 1.74 m
- Figure to verify on the official recruitment page
Who it is for
- Unmarried Catholic men who are Swiss citizens and want to serve the Pope
- Applicants of good character who have completed Swiss military basic training
Requirements
- Swiss citizenship and a practising Catholic
- Unmarried male, within the eligible age range
- Completed Swiss army basic (recruit) training
- A professional diploma or high-school qualification
- Unblemished character and good reputation
- Meet the minimum height requirement
What you can do
- Serve in the Guard and reside in the barracks inside Vatican City
- Hold Vatican citizenship for the duration of active service
- Extend service or return to civilian life after the minimum commitment
How to apply
- Apply through the Guard's official information and recruitment centre in Switzerland
- Undergo assessment of background, fitness, character and suitability
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.