King says Prince Harry and Meghan remain private citizens after returning to the U.K.

King Charles III has formally clarified Prince Harry and Meghan’s status after their return to the United Kingdom last month: they remain private citizens, not working members of the royal family.

In a letter released Monday, Charles said the couple would not use the titles “His or Her Royal Highness.” He authorized publication of the letter to “help avoid doubt or confusion.” The document said Harry and Meghan’s decision to step down as senior working members of the royal family in January 2020 “will continue to be fully respected.”

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help avoid doubt or confusion

“In short, their position is akin to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests,” the letter said. It was sent on the king’s behalf by the Lord Chamberlain. Palace sources said publication was preferable to allowing the contents to emerge through leaks, presenting the decision as a matter of transparency.

The letter also said relevant police agencies would handle any security issues. Harry and Meghan’s charity work will take place in a private capacity.

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will continue to be fully respected

News of the couple’s return to Britain emerged in late August, after six years in California. They arrived in the United Kingdom on Aug. 26 and are expected to live in the Cotswolds, about two hours west of London. Their departure from royal duties and move to California had caused considerable tension within the family.

Harry lost a 2024 legal challenge against a government decision to reduce his security detail during visits to the United Kingdom. Harry and Meghan have two children, Archie, born in 2019, and Lilibet, born in 2021.

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In short, their position is akin to private citizens with commercial and charitable interests