Vatican City (the Holy See) is the world's smallest sovereign state, an independent city-state within Rome, Italy. Residents of Vatican City are almost exclusively clergy and officials of the Catholic Church, who hold Vatican passports (Holy See passports). Vatican citizens may also hold Italian citizenship and Italian passports. Both passport types are eligible for the Tanzania e-Visa program.
What Passport Do Vatican City Residents Hold?
Vatican City residents and officials may hold:
- Vatican passport (Passaporto della Città del Vaticano) — issued by the Vatican State to Vatican citizens and officials
- Italian passport — many Vatican officials also hold Italian citizenship and Italian passports
For Tanzania travel, either passport type is accepted. Vatican passport holders apply using their Vatican passport; those with Italian passports apply as Italian citizens.
Tanzania e-Visa Requirements for Vatican City Residents
As Vatican or Italian passport holders, Vatican City residents:
- Apply at eservices.immigration.go.tz using their passport details
- Cost: USD 50 single entry / USD 100 multiple entry
- Processing: 2-3 business days
- Stay permitted: up to 90 days per visit
- Visa validity: 3 months from issue date
Required documents:
- Valid Vatican or Italian passport (6 months validity minimum, 2 blank pages)
- Digital passport photo (white background, JPEG)
- Return/onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds (minimum USD 500)
Step-by-Step Application
- Visit eservices.immigration.go.tz
- Create an account with your email address
- Select "Tourist e-Visa" and Holy See/Vatican City (or Italy if using Italian passport) as your nationality
- Enter your passport details
- Upload required documents
- Pay USD 50 via credit/debit card
- Submit and await approval (2-3 business days)
- Download and print your e-Visa
- Present at Tanzania port of entry with your passport
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Yes. Vatican passport holders must obtain a Tanzania e-Visa before travelling. Apply at eservices.immigration.go.tz.
A: Yes. Vatican officials who also hold Italian citizenship may use their Italian passport. Both are accepted for the Tanzania e-Visa application.
A: Yes. The Holy See/Vatican passport is a recognized diplomatic/official travel document. Verify current eligibility on eservices.immigration.go.tz.
A: Yes. The e-Visa covers both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar island.
A: Up to 90 days per stay with a single entry tourist e-Visa. The visa is valid for 3 months from the issue date.
Related guides: Requirements | Fees | Processing Time