Pope Leon XIV Updates His Peruvian ID in the Vatican

Web Editor

May 31, 2025

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Background on Pope Leon XIV and His Peruvian Connection

Pope Leon XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, USA, became a Peruvian national in 2015 when he was appointed as the Bishop of a northern Peruvian city by Pope Francis. His strong ties to Peru have been evident through various actions, including this recent update of his Peruvian national identity document.

The Update Process

On Friday, Pope Leon XIV updated the details of his Peruvian national identity card (DNI) in a meeting with a delegation from the National Registry of Identity and Civil Status (Reniec) in the Vatican. The delegation, consisting of four officials, visited the Vatican to assist the Pope in updating his residential address and photograph on record.

Data Collection and Security

During the meeting, Reniec officials captured a new photograph of Pope Leon XIV and recorded his digital fingerprints and signature using electronic tablets. These details were immediately entered into Reniec’s online system, ensuring the Pope’s updated information is securely stored and accessible.

New Peruvian ID Features

As a result of this update, Pope Leon XIV will receive a new electronic policarbonate ID card. This advanced document contains a chip with his personal data and features an image of the iconic Incan citadel, Machu Picchu.

Reniec’s Statement

Carmen Velarde, head of Reniec, expressed her gratitude to Pope Leon XIV for taking the time to update his identity document. She emphasized that this act reaffirms the Pope’s affection for Peru and serves as an example for all Peruvians to maintain current DNI records.

Pope Leon XIV’s Peruvian Journey

Since his appointment as Bishop of a northern Peruvian city in 2015, Pope Leon XIV has maintained his residential address as Calle Elías Aguirre 850, the seat of the Chiclayo Diocese. His recent update to his Peruvian identity card demonstrates his ongoing commitment to the country and its people.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who is Pope Leon XIV? Born Robert Francis Prevost in the United States, he became a Peruvian national in 2015 and was appointed Bishop of a northern Peruvian city by Pope Francis.
  • Why is this update significant? Pope Leon XIV’s decision to update his Peruvian identity card highlights his dedication to the country and encourages Peruvians to keep their DNI records current.
  • What features does the new ID card have? The updated Peruvian ID card is an electronic policarbonate document with a chip containing personal data and showcasing an image of Machu Picchu.