who can wear white to meet the pope

Yes — in papal protocol, only certain Catholic queens and princesses have the privilege of wearing white when meeting the pope; most other women are expected to wear black, often with a veil.

Quick Scoop

This rule is known as the “privilege of white” and is traditionally granted to Catholic monarchs and their spouses from a very small group of royal houses, including Spain, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Monaco.

Who Qualifies

The women commonly cited as able to wear white include:

• Queens and royal consorts of Spain.
• Queens and royal consorts of Belgium.
• Queens and royal consorts of Luxembourg.
• The Princess of Monaco and related Catholic royal figures.

Everyone Else

For ordinary papal audiences, women generally wear:

• A black dress.
• Long sleeves and a modest neckline.
• A black mantilla or veil in traditional settings.

Small Caveat

The white dress is a privilege, not a requirement. Even women who are allowed to wear white may still choose black for some visits.

If you want, I can also give you the current list of the seven women usually named in this tradition.