Vatican enforces strict dress code and conduct rules for Basilica staff

Employees of St. Peter's Factory can no longer have visible tattoos and piercings. This is the result of new regulations introduced by the administration of the Holy See. The regulations state that the staff "commit to adhering to principles of exemplary religious and moral conduct."

The Vatican introduces new regulations for employees of St. Peter's Factory. This is a set of rules that apply to employees involved in the management, maintenance, conservation, and decoration of the Vatican Basilica.

What do the new guidelines say? Above all, employees of the 16th-century landmark must adhere to the Vatican's "dress code." The regulations for the Holy Year 2025 state that "out of respect for the dignity of the workplace, visible tattoos and body piercings are forbidden."

However, that's not all. Employees must profess the Catholic faith and "live according to its principles." Additionally, "testimonies issued by a parish priest or another Church representative, and a church marriage certificate in the case of married individuals" will be necessary in the recruitment process.

Employees commit to adhering to principles of exemplary religious and moral conduct, both in private and family life, in accordance with Church teachings - as stated in the latest regulations, quoted by the PAP.

Individuals who do not comply with the Holy See's new regulations may face severe penalties. They risk, among other things, suspension of duties. The most severe consequences are for passing confidential information to third parties.

Under no circumstances may employees accept outsiders at their workplace nor remove "original documents and photocopies or electronic copies and other archival materials."