Restricted Access Permit or Access Card

Overview

Holy See and Vatican City State access does not operate like a normal destination visa system. Ordinary travel to Rome, Italy and the Schengen area must be checked separately with the competent Italian or Schengen authority; these entries cover only the Vatican City State access, residence and citizenship framework that is published by the Governorate. The access law says, outside public-access territory, people who are not Vatican citizens or residents need a permit issued by the Governorate to enter Vatican City State territory. The same law also provides special access cards for people serving or collaborating with Holy See bodies, connected institutions or Vatican City State, and permanent permits for people who need frequent access.

Eligibility

Application pathway

1. 01

   Check the route fit

   Have the Vatican, Holy See or connected host confirm that restricted access is needed.

2. 02

   Build the evidence pack

   Collect identity and appointment, service or collaboration evidence.

3. 03

   Submit through the official channel

   Use the authority channel instructed by the host or Governorate to obtain the permit or card.

4. 04

   After approval

   Enter only for the authorised purpose and leave or renew before the authorisation expires.

Also explored by

Compare Holy See (Vatican City State) with

• 🇮🇷 Islamic Republic of Iran
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• 🇲🇿 Republic of Mozambique

Related routes

• Public Visitor Access

  Public-access note for visitors entering only those Vatican City State areas that are open to the public; it is not a standalone Vatican tourist visa.

• Authorised Residence

  Residence authorisation in Vatican City State for tightly defined family, domestic-collaborator or other appropriate cases under the Governorate law.