Vatican City – During an audience granted on 28 July 2025 to the Prefect of the Secretariat for the Economy, Pope Leo XIV signed a Rescriptum ex audientia approving significant amendments to the regulations governing certain aspects of employment for staff of the Vatican City State.
The changes, which take effect immediately, represent a substantial update in favour of employees and their families, aligning workplace rules with higher standards of protection and flexibility.
More Paid Leave for the Birth of a Child
One of the first measures concerns leave granted for the birth of a child. The number of paid days has been increased from three to five, all paid at 100%, to be taken within thirty days of the birth. Employees may still take the leave consecutively or in separate full days. While seemingly a simple change, it marks a concrete step towards greater support for parenthood.
Parental Leave for Children with Disabilities, No Age Limit
The rules for leave to care for a child with a severe disability have also been revised. Previously, entitlement to three paid days per month began only once the child turned three years old. That age limit has now been removed, allowing parents to use the leave from the earliest months of life, providing crucial support during the most sensitive stages of a child’s development.
Family Allowances: New Rules for Students
Family allowance provisions have been updated with clear age limits for dependent students: up to age 20 for secondary education and up to age 26 for university or equivalent studies recognised by the Holy See, provided they are documented. The requirement for studies to be pursued “without interruption” has been abolished, acknowledging that valid educational paths may be less linear.
Definition of Disability and Incapacity: Streamlined Wording
The definition of “disability” has been slightly but significantly simplified, with the removal of references to the “environmental and social context” in relation to difficulties in learning, relationships, or workplace integration. The criteria for recognising “severe conditions” and “incapacity” remain unchanged, as does the decisive and final authority of the Medical Board.
Monthly Disability Benefit: Expanded Eligibility
The monthly disability allowance—previously reserved for those entitled to family allowances or receiving a Vatican pension and deemed incapable—is now extended to a new category: pensioners who are the sole member of their household, have a severe disability or incapacity, and meet the prescribed income requirements. This is an important recognition for those living in family isolation.
Strict Ban on Other Work During Care Leave
Lastly, for leave granted to care for a disabled family member, a stricter rule has been introduced: during such leave, no other work activities may be performed (unless specifically authorised). Previously, only overtime or additional duties were prohibited.
With these changes, Pope Leo XIV reaffirms his commitment to strengthening the protection of work and family within Vatican City State, introducing more inclusive and flexible measures. The Rescriptum ex audientia goes beyond technical adjustments, updating Vatican regulations to better address the real needs of individuals—especially in life’s most sensitive family moments.
d.V.P.
Silere non possum