Former NYC Mayor Eric Adams Becomes Honorary Albanian Citizen

Adams, who once described himself as an 'international mayor,' has expressed a desire to live abroad after retiring from politics.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:53pm

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A serene, cinematic painting depicting an Albanian flag waving gently in the warm sunlight of a city street, with deep shadows cast across the pavement, capturing the quiet, nostalgic mood of a political figure's international connections.The honorary citizenship granted to former New York City Mayor Eric Adams by Albania reflects his longstanding international interests and desire for a life abroad.NYC Today

Former New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced on Friday that he has been granted honorary citizenship in Albania, a small Balkan nation he has visited and expressed affinity for in the past. The move puts Adams one step closer to his oft-repeated dream of leaving politics behind for a life abroad.

Why it matters

Adams' decision to become an honorary Albanian citizen reflects his long-standing interest in international affairs and desire to live outside of New York City after his political career. It also raises questions about his future plans and commitment to public service.

The details

According to an official decree from the Albanian president, Bajram Begaj, Adams received the honorary citizenship 'at his request.' The news was first reported in the Albanian press and confirmed by a spokesperson for Adams, who said the ex-mayor had 'long been a friend and ally of the Albanian-American community.' Adams has previously expressed a desire to retire in places like Baku, Azerbaijan and the Golan Heights.

  • In October 2025, Adams traveled to Albania to 'say hello to a friend and learn from a friend and build a relationship with a friendship that will not allow our oceans or seas to divide us.'
  • Shortly after dropping his bid for reelection in 2026, Adams embarked on a four-day trip to Albania, meeting with the country's Prime Minister Edi Rama and members of his Cabinet, along with local business leaders.

The players

Eric Adams

The former Democratic mayor of New York City who has been granted honorary citizenship in Albania.

Bajram Begaj

The president of Albania who issued the decree granting Adams honorary citizenship.

Edi Rama

The prime minister of Albania who met with Adams during his recent trip to the country.

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What they’re saying

“The decision by the Republic of Albania to grant Mayor Adams citizenship reflects that enduring relationship and mutual respect.”

— Todd Shapiro, Spokesperson for Eric Adams

What’s next

It remains unclear what, if anything, Adams plans to do with his new Albanian citizenship. However, his desire to live abroad after retiring from politics suggests he may spend more time in the Balkan nation in the future.

The takeaway

Eric Adams' decision to become an honorary Albanian citizen underscores his long-standing interest in international affairs and desire to live outside of New York City after his political career. This move raises questions about his future plans and commitment to public service, as he has previously expressed interest in retiring in other countries.