Personal Safety
Note: this page contains basic risk information. For more details, please contact the Risk Services Office at risk@berkeley.edu.
If you are traveling to Vatican City on University-related business, please sign up for the University’s travel insurance program by going here. For more information on the travel insurance program, please go here.
Because everyone’s health is unique, we suggest seeking the advice of a medical professional before traveling internationally. Members of the campus community interested in protecting their health while abroad may schedule an appointment with the University Health Services International Travel Clinic.
The geopolitical threat is low in Vatican City. Vatican City is an independent city-state within Italy's capital, Rome, and is the administrative capital of the Roman Catholic Church.
Crime generally poses a low threat in Vatican City. Criminal activity is most prevalent in crowded tourist locations.
Nonviolent crime poses a low threat to foreign nationals and is concentrated in tourist locations such as Saint Peter's Square. Thieves typically target purses, bags, wallets, smartphones, and other electronic devices. These opportunistic crimes can occur anywhere, but especially in crowded areas. Foreign nationals are typically targeted by criminals due to their perceived wealth. Protests rarely occur in Vatican City and seldom devolve into violence.
Scams pose a low threat to foreign nationals in Vatican City. Overall, the threat of violent crime in Vatican City is minimal; foreign nationals are rarely targeted by criminals.
Gender-based violence and/or discrimination poses a low threat to foreign nationals in Vatican City. Verbal harassment is rare. Anti-LGBTQ violence does not regularly occur in Vatican City.
Organized crime does not usually affect foreign nationals in Vatican City. Highway robbery and banditry pose a minimal threat in Vatican City.
Legal/Political
You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Your U.S. passport will not prevent you from being detained, arrested, or prosecuted. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.
Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest Consulate immediately.
Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws.
LGBTI RIGHTS: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Italy. Same sex civil unions are legally recognized in Italy.