Botswana passport → Vatican City

Vatican City visa for citizens of Botswana

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (short-stay, multiple entry)

Citizens of Botswana need a visa for Vatican City and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Schengen Visa (short-stay, multiple entry)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€80
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months, showing sufficient funds for stay

How to apply

1
Determine the competent embassy/consulate
Since Vatican City has no diplomatic missions abroad, apply at the Italian embassy or consulate in Botswana (or nearest jurisdiction) as Vatican City follows Italian visa policy.
2
Book an appointment
Schedule an appointment at the Italian embassy/consulate for visa submission and biometrics enrollment.
3
Prepare required documents
Gather all documents listed above, ensuring they are complete and meet Schengen requirements.
4
Attend the appointment
Submit application, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and pay the visa fee.
5
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15-45 calendar days. Track application if possible.
6
Collect passport
Once approved, collect passport with visa sticker from the embassy/consulate or via courier if arranged.
7
Travel to Vatican City
Enter Vatican City via Italy (no border controls, but must hold valid Schengen visa). Overnight stay restricted to residents only.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages)
Issued within last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area
Completed Schengen visa application form
Signed and dated
Passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background)
2 recent photos meeting ICAO standards
Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children)
Optional
If applicable
Previous passports (if any)
Optional
To show travel history
Proof of residence in Botswana (if not citizen)
Optional
For non-Botswana nationals applying from Botswana

Travel

Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation
Confirmed booking showing entry and exit dates
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
For entire stay in Schengen area

Financial

Proof of sufficient financial means
Bank statements, payslips, or sponsorship letter

Employment

Employment letter or proof of student status
Stating position, salary, and approved leave

Supporting

Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen area and duration of stay
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Detailed itinerary and reason for travel
Visa fee payment receipt
Proof of payment of €80 fee
Invitation letter from Vatican City (if visiting friends/family)
Optional
Notarized if required

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €90 per day of stay (or equivalent)

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Payslips
Sponsorship letter
Credit card statements

Sufficient funds to cover accommodation, meals, and incidental expenses.

Good to know

Vatican City has open borders with Italy but de facto follows Italian visa policy; a multiple-entry Schengen visa is required.
No foreign accommodations are available; overnight stay is restricted to residents only.
Visa application must be submitted at an Italian embassy/consulate, not a Vatican City mission.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all required documents and ensure they meet Schengen standards.

Insufficient financial means

Provide clear proof of adequate funds for the entire stay.

Lack of travel health insurance

Purchase insurance covering at least €30,000 for the Schengen area.

Previous visa violations or overstays

Ensure compliance with previous visa conditions.

FAQ

Do citizens of Botswana need a visa for Vatican City?

Citizens of Botswana need a visa for Vatican City and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa (short-stay, multiple entry).

How long can citizens of Botswana stay in Vatican City?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Vatican City visa cost for citizens of Botswana?

Government fee: €80.

How long does Vatican City visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Botswana need for Vatican City?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages); Completed Schengen visa application form; Passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter); and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Vatican City?

At least 3 months.

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