Get Your Vatican City Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Office (jus officii): Citizenship is granted only to individuals appointed to specific roles—such as the Pope, cardinals residing in Vatican City or Rome, diplomats of the Holy See, members of the Swiss Guard, and other staff whose office/service warrants it. It is not based on birth or descent.
- Family Citizenship: Spouses and minor children of Vatican citizens residing with them may be granted citizenship, but this is tied to their dependent status and residence.
- Temporary Nature: Most Vatican citizenships are temporary and end when the official role concludes or residence ceases; children lose citizenship by age 18 unless they qualify in their own right.
- Dual Citizenship Allowed: Vatican citizens typically hold other nationalities (e.g. Italian or their home countries), and dual citizenship is permitted.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm your Vatican eligibility by appointment or role (e.g., Swiss Guard, diplomat, office-holder).
- If eligible, apply via the Secretariat of State (Holy See) or Vatican Governorate.
- Provide required documents: birth/marriage certificates, proof of residence, integration, and character references.
- Take any required oaths or declarations tied to Vatican service.
- Your citizenship lasts as long as your qualifying role or dependent status continues; it’s automatically revoked if it ends.
Benefits of Vatican Citizenship
- Right to reside and work within Vatican City during your service
- Eligibility for a Vatican passport (ordinary, diplomatic, or service, based on role)
- Access to Vatican services for staff and families
- Maintains strong symbolic and diplomatic status
- Dual nationality is allowed—Vatican citizens often retain other citizenships
Frequently asked questions.
Does Vatican City allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Vatican citizenship is typically held alongside another nationality—most citizens also retain Italian citizenship or that of their home.
How do I become a citizen?
Citizenship is only available through official appointment or service (e.g., pope, cardinal, Swiss Guard, diplomat). It cannot be acquired via birth, descent, or marriage in the usual sense.
Is Vatican citizenship permanent?
No. Most citizenships are tied to a position and end when that role or residence ends. Children lose it by age 18 unless they continue qualifying. Only the Pope holds it for life.
Can family members receive Vatican citizenship?
Yes. Spouses and minor children of Vatican citizens may receive citizenship if they live within the territory and meet residency requirements. This ends when their dependent status ceases.
Will I owe taxes in both countries?
Vatican City has no personal income tax. If you retain citizenship elsewhere, you may be subject to taxes in that country depending on where you live and earn income. Consult a tax advisor.