Vanuatu is reviewing Andrew Tate’s citizenship after reports reveal he secured a golden passport while facing criminal charges in Romania. The island nation may now strip him of it.
Vanuatu authorities are taking action against Andrew Tate’s citizenship after it emerged that he obtained a golden passport during his criminal investigation in Romania. The move follows global criticism of such fast-track schemes.
Authorities in Vanuatu have confirmed they are ‘actively looking into’ revoking the controversial influencer’s citizenship after revelations that he secured it in late 2022, just as he was arrested in Romania on serious charges, including rape and human trafficking.
Tate reportedly obtained Vanuatu citizenship through the country’s controversial investment program, which grants a passport to foreigners who contribute at least $130,000. These fast-track schemes have long drawn criticism for enabling criminals and fugitives to buy their way into new identities.
Kiery Manassah, a spokesperson for the Vanuatu government, told ABC News that the administration does not wish to associate with individuals under international investigation. “Once we have the files, definitely, the processes will be in place to revoke his citizenship,” he stated. “Those who are wanted or investigated by overseas authorities are not welcome.”
The news has reignited global scrutiny of Vanuatu’s passport-for-sale scheme, which previously prompted the European Union to strip the nation of its visa-free privileges in 2024 over lax background checks.
Investigators from the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) noted that such programs can act as ‘loopholes’ for those seeking to escape legal consequences. Tate’s case, they warn, highlights how the system can be exploited in real time.
Tate and his brother Tristan were arrested in Romania in December 2022. While Andrew’s Vanuatu passport is confirmed, it remains unclear whether Tristan also holds one.
With Vanuatu under pressure to clean up its citizenship program, Tate’s days as a Pacific passport holder could be numbered.
