Vanuatu is taking steps to revoke the citizenship granted to controversial influencer Andrew Tate through its "golden passport" scheme. The move follows revelations that Tate obtained Vanuatu citizenship in December 2022—the same month he was arrested in Romania on charges including rape and human trafficking.

Tate acquired the passport via Vanuatu’s Development Support Program, which offers citizenship in exchange for a minimum investment of $130,000. His application was submitted by the agency NXT Citizen, and the passport was issued in January 2023 while he was in pre-trial detention.

Vanuatu officials have acknowledged a "lapse" in the vetting process. Government spokesman Kiery Manassah stated, "We’re definitely looking into it, and once we have the files, the processes will be in place to revoke his citizenship."

The country's Citizenship Commissioner, Charles Maniel, noted that under current laws, revocation typically occurs only after a criminal conviction. However, the government is considering reforms to allow for revocation based on character assessments.

Vanuatu's "golden passport" program has faced international criticism for lax oversight. In December 2024, the European Union revoked Vanuatu's visa-free travel agreement due to concerns over the program's potential to facilitate money laundering and security risks.

Tate, who has claimed to possess multiple passports, has denied all allegations against him. He faces additional charges in the United Kingdom, including rape and human trafficking, and is expected to be extradited following the conclusion of Romanian proceedings.

The case has intensified calls for stricter regulations on citizenship-by-investment programs. Philippe May, head of citizenship firm EC Holdings, emphasized the need for moral considerations in granting citizenship, stating he would have declined Tate as a client due to reputational concerns.