Key facts
- King Charles III confirmed Prince Harry and Meghan Markle remain non-working royals via an authorized letter.
- The couple will continue to be considered private citizens and will not use their HRH titles.
King Charles III has confirmed Prince Harry and Meghan Markle remain non-working royals, a status that has not changed despite their return to the UK. The couple expressed surprise at the timing of the clarification.

The confirmation of their non-working royal status and the surprise reaction highlight ongoing tensions surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's relationship with the Royal Family, particularly as they seek security arrangements upon their return to the UK.
King Charles III has confirmed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will continue to be classified as non-working royals, a status that remains unchanged despite their return to the United Kingdom. The clarification was conveyed through an authorized letter sent to senior British officials, including government departments and the military.
The letter emphasizes that the position agreed upon in 2020, known as the Sandringham Agreement, is still in effect. This agreement precludes any 'half-in and half-out' arrangement, meaning Harry and Meghan cannot pursue their own commercial interests while simultaneously functioning as working royals. Consequently, they will not be able to use their 'His and Her Royal Highness' titles and are considered private citizens with commercial and charitable interests.
While royal sources state that Harry and Meghan were made aware of the letter before its public release, a spokesperson for the couple expressed surprise at not being informed in advance and at the limited notice provided. The timing of this official clarification comes as a Home Office security committee is scheduled to meet to review the possibility of taxpayer-funded security for the family now that they are residing back in the UK.
Since stepping down from royal duties and moving to the U.S., the couple have struck commercial deals and Prince Harry has been involved in legal efforts to secure publicly funded police protection.
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