Trouble for Andrew Tate: Vanuatu Investigating His Citizenship Amid Criminal Charges
Vanuatu has announced that it is reviewing the possibility of revoking influencer Andrew Tate’s citizenship after reports revealed he obtained a so-called “golden passport” in December 2022 — around the same time he was arrested in Romania on serious criminal charges.
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“Bought His Way Out? Andrew Tate’s $130K Golden Passport Under Investigation
Andrew Tate, a divisive online figure known for openly misogynistic views, acquired citizenship through Vanuatu’s investment-based fast-track program. This scheme grants citizenship in exchange for a minimum investment of $130,000. However, it has faced criticism for weak background checks and alleged exploitation by criminals.
Kiery Manassah, spokesperson for the Vanuatu government, told ABC News, “Once we have the files, definitely, the processes will be in place to revoke his citizenship. The government does not want to encourage people of questionable backgrounds to be granted citizenship.”
Vanuatu’s controversial “passports-for-sale” program has long been a major source of income for the island nation but also raised serious national security concerns. In late 2024, the European Union revoked Vanuatu’s visa-free access amid fears the program was abused by criminals, oligarchs, and foreign intelligence operatives.
The timing of Tate’s citizenship raised red flags, as it coincided with his and his brother Tristan Tate’s arrest in Romania on charges including rape and human trafficking. Romania and Vanuatu do not have a formal extradition treaty, complicating potential legal proceedings. It remains unclear whether Tristan Tate also obtained that citizenship.
Born in the US and raised in the UK, the Tate brothers deny all allegations. However, UK authorities are also seeking their extradition on separate charges related to incidents between 2012 and 2015, including rape, human trafficking, and bodily harm.
Romanian courts have allowed extradition to the UK to proceed once domestic legal processes are complete, leaving the brothers’ legal battles ongoing.
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