Former New York City Mayor Eric Adams has obtained Albanian citizenship, a move that reflects his longstanding ties to the Balkan nation and his interest in pursuing life abroad after his political career. The honorary citizenship was granted at Adams’ request, according to an official decree from Albania’s President Bajram Begaj, marking a symbolic step toward Adams’ expressed desire to distance himself from U.S. politics.

Adams, a Democrat who served as New York’s mayor until early 2026, has cultivated a connection with the Albanian-American community and has made several visits to Albania, including a trip last October during his final months in office. His spokesperson, Todd Shapiro, described the citizenship as a reflection of “enduring relationship and mutual respect” between Adams and the Albanian people, noting that the recognition “further strengthens the bond between New York and Albania.”

The former mayor has spoken frequently about his international outlook, at times calling himself an “international mayor.” His affinity for Albania is also personal: Adams’ adult son lived there briefly while participating in a local talent competition akin to “American Idol.” During his October visit, Adams met with Prime Minister Edi Rama and other government officials, along with business leaders. The trip was partly funded by the Albanian government.

While Adams has not outlined specific plans regarding his Albanian citizenship, the gesture aligns with prior statements about retiring outside the United States. In 2018, as Brooklyn borough president, he expressed intent to relocate to Baku, Azerbaijan, and later mentioned retiring in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

Adams’ tenure as mayor featured numerous international trips, including frequent visits to Turkey, which attracted federal scrutiny. He faced a federal indictment over allegations of accepting improper travel benefits; Adams denied wrongdoing, and the case was ultimately dismissed by the Department of Justice under then-President Donald Trump. Afterward, Adams engaged in discussions with U.S. administration officials about a potential ambassadorship, a position he did not ultimately receive.

Following his decision to end his bid for reelection earlier this year, Adams has traveled internationally, including visits to Dubai and the Democratic Republic of Congo. His post-mayoral pursuits have drawn mixed attention: in January, he launched a cryptocurrency project intended to combat antisemitism and “anti-Americanism,” but the venture reportedly suffered significant financial setbacks.

With the acquisition of Albanian citizenship, Adams appears to be laying groundwork for a future beyond his public service in New York, although details about his plans remain largely undisclosed.