United States Visa RequirementsFor Vatican City passport holders
Vatican City passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Vatican City passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Vatican City to United States: What You Need to Know
Vatican City, the world's smallest internationally recognized independent state, is a member of the US Visa Waiver Program. Vatican passports are held by a very small number of people, primarily clergy and officials working directly for the Holy See. The US and the Holy See maintain full diplomatic relations, and the relationship between the Catholic Church and the United States is among the most significant religious-diplomatic connections in the world, given that approximately 70 million Americans are Catholic. Travelers using Vatican passports would typically depart from Rome Fiumicino (FCO) or Ciampino (CIA). Many Vatican officials also hold Italian nationality, meaning they can use either Italian or Vatican documents, both of which qualify for VWP.
How to Get There
From Rome Fiumicino (FCO), direct flights to the US are available with Alitalia/ITA Airways, American Airlines, Delta, and United. Nonstop routes serve New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD), and Boston (BOS). Alternatively, connections via other European hubs (London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam) offer additional options.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is expected and a social obligation in the US: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, a few dollars for taxis and hotel staff. Vatican City and Italy include service in restaurant bills; in the US, it is not included. Exchange Euros at Rome airport or use ATMs on arrival.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight from Rome. The 90-day limit is firm. Carry proof of your return travel and accommodation. US customs will ask about the purpose of your visit; have your itinerary ready. Vatican passport holders may receive additional questions at ports of entry due to the rarity of the document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Vatican City passport holders need a visa to visit the United States?
Vatican City passport holders must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before traveling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. The ESTA fee is 21 USD and is applied for online. Vatican City is on the list of Visa Waiver Program countries. Alternatively, a full B-1/B-2 visa can be applied for at a US embassy.
How long can Vatican passport holders stay in the United States on an ESTA?
ESTA authorization allows stays of up to 90 days per visit. ESTA itself is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, and permits multiple entries during that period. Extensions are not generally available under the Visa Waiver Program; a visa would be required for longer stays.
How do Vatican passport holders apply for US ESTA?
Applications are submitted through the official CBPCB ESTA website (esta.cbp.dhs.gov). Applicants provide passport details, travel information, and answer eligibility questions. The fee is paid by credit card. Authorization is usually received within 72 hours. Approved ESTA holders must still pass inspection at the US port of entry.
What documents should Vatican passport holders carry when traveling to the United States?
A valid Vatican City passport with ESTA approval, a return or onward air ticket, confirmed accommodation in the US, proof of sufficient funds for the intended stay, and travel insurance. For official Vatican visits, credentials from the Secretariat of State and coordination with the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington DC are advisable.
What currency does the United States use and how can Vatican visitors manage money?
The United States uses the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available nationwide. Credit and debit cards are accepted at virtually all establishments. The US is a large country with significant cost variation between regions; New York and San Francisco are among the most expensive cities. Healthcare costs are very high, making travel insurance strongly recommended.
What should Vatican passport holders know about visiting the United States?
The United States is a vast and diverse country. Washington DC, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Boston are major destinations with significant Catholic heritage and active Catholic communities. English is the dominant language; Spanish is widely spoken in many regions. The US has one of the world's largest Catholic populations. Major Catholic institutions include the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington DC.
How does the United States view the Holy See and Vatican City passport holders?
The United States and the Holy See have full diplomatic relations, with a US Ambassador accredited to the Holy See and an Apostolic Nuncio in Washington DC. The Vatican City passport qualifies for the Visa Waiver Program, reflecting the strength of the bilateral relationship. Vatican officials making official visits to the United States, particularly to Washington DC or New York (UN), should coordinate through the Apostolic Nunciature and the relevant US government agencies.