King Charles breaks silence on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s royal status after UK move

King Charles has issued formal guidance reaffirming the royal status of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle following the couple’s return to the U.K.

On Monday, Sept. 7, the King directed the Lord Chamberlain, Lord Benyon, to issue a letter to senior officials across the U.K. government, military and Lord Lieutenancies. The guidance was also shared with Prince Harry’s team after officials received several requests for clarification about the couple’s status.

The letter states that there has been “no change” to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s position since they stepped down as working members of the royal family in 2020.

Harry and Meghan relocated to Britain in August ahead of their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, starting school. The couple are reportedly staying at a private residence outside London.

According to the guidance, Harry and Meghan remain non-working members of the royal family and their His and Her Royal Highness styles remain in abeyance. Their charitable activities will continue to be carried out in a private capacity and do not represent a return to royal duties.

The arrangement dates back to the January 2020 Sandringham Summit, when the couple’s decision to step back from official royal duties was formalised.

The clarification comes as Harry prepares for several charitable engagements in the U.K., including activities connected to the Invictus Games. Meghan is also reportedly considering reconnecting with causes she supported during her time as a working royal.

The letter further states that the Sussexes’ office will continue to operate separately from the Royal Household. Questions involving official courtesies and public funds are to be directed to Buckingham Palace, while security matters remain under the relevant police authorities.