U.S. flags are flown at half-staff for the Pope until sunset on the day of his interment (burial).

How long is the flag at half-staff for the Pope?

In the United States, when the sitting president issues a proclamation to honor a pope, the usual instruction is:

  • Lower flags to half-staff immediately (or from a specified date and time).
  • Keep them at half-staff through the funeral period.
  • Return them to full-staff at sunset on the day the pope is interred (laid to rest).

So the exact number of days can vary, depending on the date of death and the funeral/burial schedule set by the Vatican, but the end point is consistent: sunset on the day of interment.

In recent guidance for Pope Francis, federal and state notices specified that flags “should be flown at half-staff until sunset on the day of interment.”

Quick facts

  • Start: When the presidential or gubernatorial order takes effect (often immediately after the pope’s death is announced).
  • End: Sunset on the day of the pope’s burial/interment.
  • Who follows it: Federal buildings, military installations, many state and local facilities, and often private institutions that choose to participate.

SEO meta description

How long is the flag at half staff for the pope? In the U.S., flags are typically flown at half-staff from the official order until sunset on the day of the pope’s interment, per presidential proclamations.

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