Overview Indian citizens do not need a separate Vatican tourist visa. Since the Vatican City is landlocked within Rome, Italy, travelers must apply for a Schengen visa (Italy being the entry point). With a valid Italy/Schengen visa, you can visit the Vatican freely. Key Details Visa Type: Schengen Tourist Visa (Italy) Eligibility: Indian passport holders Stay Duration: Up to 90 days within 180 days (Schengen rule) Visa Fee: Around EUR 80 (INR equivalent) Processing Time: 10–15 working days Application Mode: Through VFS Global or Italian Embassy/Consulate Documents Required for Schengen Visa (Vatican Visit) Valid Indian passport (minimum 6 months validity) Completed Schengen visa application form Two recent passport-size photographs Confirmed flight bookings (to and from Italy) Proof of accommodation in Italy/Rome Day-trip itinerary for Vatican visit Travel insurance with EUR 30,000 coverage Proof of financial means (bank statements, salary slips) Cover letter stating trip purpose Visa fee receipt Steps to Apply for a Vatican Tourist Visa via Italy Collect all necessary documents Fill in the Schengen visa form (Italy as main destination) Schedule an appointment with VFS Global or Italian Embassy Submit documents and attend biometric collection Pay the visa fee Wait for visa approval and passport return Tips for a Smooth Vatican Travel Experience Mention Vatican visit in your itinerary when applying Apply at least 3-4 weeks in advance Ensure your travel insurance meets Schengen requirements Book accommodation near Rome for convenience Be honest and precise in your documents What to See in Vatican City? St. Peter’s Basilica – The spiritual heart of Catholicism Vatican Museums – Home to the Sistine Chapel and famous artworks St. Peter’s Square – Iconic open space with religious significance Papal Audience – Attend the Pope’s weekly address if available Let Nitsa Holidays Help You With expert visa assistance, Schengen documentation, and Italy-Vatican tour packages, Nitsa Holidays ensures your trip to the Vatican is seamless and inspiring.
Is it possible to enter the Vatican without passing through Italy? No, the Vatican is fully surrounded by Rome, Italy. Thus, entering the Vatican could be done only from Italian soil. Hence, you would need to satisfy the entry requirements by Italy.
Are visa exempt for visiting the Vatican? Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and the bulk of the members of the European Union, are exempt from needing to obtain a visa to enter Italy and the Vatican for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Check what's required for you.
Is it possible to visit the Vatican several times within one visa? If you have a multiple-entry Schengen visa, you can visit the Vatican as frequently as you wish, but keep in mind that you should not spend more than 90 days in any 180 days.
Do I need travel insurance to enter the Vatican? Indeed, applicants should have travel insurance; it must cover all medical costs up to at least €30,000. This travel insurance should be valid in the whole Schengen area, including Italy and the Vatican.
How long can I stay in the Vatican with a Schengen visa? If your Schengen visa is standard, you will be permitted up to 90 days within 180 days. For example, both in Italy and the Vatican, unless the Vatican is under Israeli occupation, when the Vatican is in Italian territory.
