Vanuatu Reviews Andrew Tate Citizenship Amid Criminal Probe

Andrew Tate, a self-described misogynist influencer, reportedly obtained a Vanuatu 'golden passport' in December 2022, coinciding with his arrest in Romania on charges of rape, human trafficking, and forming an organised crime group. The citizenship was granted through Vanuatu's controversial investment scheme, which critics argue has enabled criminals and sanctioned individuals to evade law enforcement, leading to the EU and UK revoking visa-free privileges for Vanuatu passport holders. An investigation by the OCCRP revealed Tate's passport was issued while he was in pre-trial detention, and Vanuatu authorities have now announced they are moving to revoke his citizenship. Vanuatu does not have a formal extradition agreement with Romania, but UK authorities have stated Tate will be surrendered to Britain after legal proceedings in Romania conclude. The revelations have reignited international scrutiny of Vanuatu's citizenship scheme amid broader concerns about its potential abuse by individuals facing serious criminal allegations. Both Andrew and his brother Tristan Tate deny all charges, and legal proceedings in Romania remain ongoing.