Two Ticino residents join Swiss Guards

Context

In brief

• Two Ticinese swear in as Swiss Pontifical Guards
• Ticino is the second canton by number of guards
• The ceremony took place on May 6, 2026
• 13 Ticinese guards currently in service

Key facts

• What: Oath of new Swiss Pontifical Guards
• When: May 6, 2026
• Where: Aula Paolo VI, Vatican City
• Who: Davide Iannalfo and Mattia Canonica
• Amount: 28 new guards sworn in

Vatican City - Two young Ticinese, Davide Iannalfo and Mattia Canonica, took the oath as new Swiss Pontifical Guards during a solemn ceremony held on May 6, 2026 in the Aula Paolo VI, in the presence of Pope Leo XIV. With this oath, Ticino confirms its position as the second canton by number of guards, with 13 members currently in service, surpassed only by the canton of Lucerne with 15 guards.

Davide Iannalfo, 24 years old, nicknamed 'the fake Ticinese', grew up in the canton of Vaud but is tied to his Blenio roots. He chose to swear in Italian and described this opportunity as unique, combining military vocation and faith. Mattia Canonica, 23 years old, from Bellinzona, spoke of the service as a privilege, emphasizing the daily sacrifices and constant responsibilities.

Operational checklist to become a Swiss Pontifical Guard

1. Basic requirements:

• Swiss citizenship
• Age between 19 and 30 years
• Minimum height of 174 cm
• Single
• High school diploma
• Good conduct and clean criminal record

2. Selection process:

• Application submission
• Interview and aptitude tests
• Medical visit
• Physical test
• Psychological evaluation

3. Training:

• 16-week training course
• Military and religious training
• First aid and self-defense courses

4. Commitment:

• 2-year contract, renewable
• Monthly salary of approximately 1,500 CHF
• Accommodation and meals provided

Implications for cross-border workers

This event, although not directly related to cross-border workers, represents a moment of pride for the Ticinese community. Cross-border workers who work in Switzerland and reside in Italy can find inspiration in the service and sacrifice of the Swiss Guards, values that often reflect the dedication and hard work of cross-border workers themselves.

The Swiss Pontifical Guards are a symbol of tradition and loyalty, and the oath of two Ticinese strengthens the bond between the canton of Ticino and Switzerland. For cross-border workers, this can be a reminder of the importance of community and solidarity, fundamental values for those who live and work between two countries.

Comparisons between practical scenarios

• Salary: The salary of a Swiss Pontifical Guard is approximately 1,500 CHF per month, which can be compared to the average salary of a Ticinese cross-border worker, which ranges between 3,500 and 4,500 CHF per month.
• Working hours: The guards work in 24-hour shifts, with one day off per week. Cross-border workers, on the other hand, often work regular hours but must face long daily commutes.
• Accommodation: The guards live in the barracks, while cross-border workers must manage two residences, one in Switzerland and one in Italy.

Regulations and key dates

• Bilateral agreements: The agreement between Switzerland and Italy on cross-border work, signed in 1974 and updated in 2002, regulates the work of cross-border workers.
• Work permits: Cross-border workers must have a valid work permit, which is renewed annually.
• Taxes: Cross-border workers pay taxes in Italy but must declare their income in Switzerland.

The oath ceremony is an annual event that celebrates the anniversary of the sack of Rome in 1527, when 189 Swiss Guards defended Pope Clement VII. The new guards swear to protect the Pope and his successors, even at the risk of their own lives.

Operational details

Practical Analysis

The swearing-in ceremony of the new Swiss Pontifical Guards is an event that requires total commitment and absolute dedication. For Ticino cross-border workers, this can be a concrete example of how work and faith can be united in a greater service. The Swiss Guards are a symbol of tradition and loyalty, and their oath represents a commitment to protect the Pope and the Holy See.

For cross-border workers who work in Switzerland and reside in Italy, this event can be an opportunity to reflect on the importance of service and community. The Swiss Guards are an example of how hard work and dedication can lead to a sense of belonging and pride. For example, cross-border workers from Mendrisio, who cross the border every day to work in Lugano, can find inspiration in this commitment.

📊 Relevant Data:

• Approximately 60,000 cross-border workers work in Ticino, 70% of whom come from Italy.
• The municipality of Mendrisio has over 15,000 cross-border workers, 40% of whom work in Lugano.

Comparison with the Previous Situation

Last year, the swearing-in ceremony was postponed from May 6 to October 4 due to the death of Pope Francis. This delay highlighted the importance of tradition and continuity in the service of the Swiss Guards. For cross-border workers, this can be a reminder of the importance of stability and continuity in work and daily life.

💡 Operational Checklist for Cross-Border Workers:

• Verification of identity documents and work permits.
• Planning the cross-border work route, considering border crossing times.
• Knowledge of tax and pension regulations, such as the 1974 Switzerland-Italy bilateral agreement.

The Swiss Pontifical Guards are an example of how tradition and modernity can coexist. Their service is a symbol of loyalty and dedication, values that are fundamental for cross-border workers who work in Switzerland and reside in Italy. This event can be an opportunity to reflect on the importance of community and solidarity, values fundamental for those who live and work between two countries.

⚠️ Practical Comparisons:

• Scenario 1: A cross-border worker from Chiasso who works in Como must comply with Italian and Swiss regulations, including pension contributions in both countries.
• Scenario 2: A cross-border worker from Lugano who works in Mendrisio must consider the tax differences between the two municipalities, with rates ranging from 10% to 15%.

"The service of the Swiss Guards is an example of how tradition can be a bridge between the past and the future." — A cross-border worker from Mendrisio

In conclusion, the example of the Swiss Guards can inspire Ticino cross-border workers to find a balance between work, faith, and community, valuing their cross-border experience.

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

Key points

Concrete Action

For cross-border workers interested in learning more about the Pontifical Swiss Guard, the official website of the Pontifical Swiss Guard Corps offers a section dedicated to selections, with details on physical and moral requirements. For example, candidates must be at least 174 cm tall and between the ages of 19 and 30. Additionally, you can participate in events and ceremonies organized by Ticino communities, such as the Swiss National Day on August 1st, celebrated in places like Lugano, Mendrisio, and Chiasso.

For those interested in the history of the Swiss Guards, the Pontifical Swiss Guard Museum in Vatican City is a must-visit. The museum, open from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offers a comprehensive overview of the corps' history, with historical artifacts and original uniforms. Admission costs 6 euros, but entry is free for Vatican residents and Swiss citizens.

Useful Tools

For cross-border workers seeking job opportunities in Switzerland, the salary calculator can be a valuable tool. For example, a cross-border worker with a full-time contract in Ticino can earn an average of between 4,500 and 6,000 Swiss francs per month, depending on the sector and experience. Additionally, the permit comparator can help compare the requirements for the L permit, valid for those working in Switzerland but residing abroad, and the B permit, for those residing in Switzerland.

For those who wish to delve deeper into Swiss culture, the Frontaliere Ticino website offers useful resources, such as an operational checklist for those moving to Ticino:

• Verify the requirements for a work permit
• Compare average salaries for your profession
• Information on schools and healthcare services
• Tips for opening a bank account

"Switzerland offers many opportunities, but it's important to be well prepared," says an industry expert.

Practical Comparisons

A cross-border worker who works in Lugano and resides in Como, for example, can save up to 1,000 francs per month due to the lower cost of living in Italy. However, it's important to consider transportation costs and any additional taxes. Another example is a worker who obtains a B permit: they will benefit from tax integration but will have to pay taxes in Switzerland, with rates ranging from 10% to 20% depending on income.

In summary, for Ticino cross-border workers, knowing the opportunities and regulations is crucial for making informed decisions and making the most of available resources.

Source: tio.ch