Legal system of residency and access to the Vatican City

A significant legal reform in Vatican City, enacted by Pope Benedict XVI in 2011, redefined citizenship, residency, and access to the Vatican State. The new law, replacing the 1929 regulation, distinguishes between residents who are citizens, non-resident citizens (e.g., diplomats), and non-citizen residents. It introduces a special registration system and personal card for non-citizens, granting them free access while maintaining strict controls over unauthorized entry. The reform also preserves the open access to Saint Peter’s Square as per the Lateran Treaty, ensuring the Vatican’s unique legal framework continues to protect the Pope’s freedom and the Holy See's sovereignty.

SARAIS, A. (2014). Legal system of residency and access to the Vatican City. Prawo Kanoniczne, 57(1), 127–156. https://doi.org/10.21697/pk.2014.57.1.07