After six years in California, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have relocated to the United Kingdom with their two children. this move comes alongside a formal clarification from King Charles regarding their official standing within the royal family.

King Charles confirms the Sussexes remain "private citizens" in new guidance

The Lord Chamberlain has issued a formal "letter of guidance" on behalf of King Charles to clarify the status of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle following their recent move back to the UK. According to the report, the King's letter emphasizes that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are "akin to private citizens" and are no longer working members of the Royal Family. The document explicitly states that their titles as His and Her Royal Highness remain in abeyance and are not to be used.

This decision reinforces the boundaries esablished when the couple stepped down from representative duties in January 2020.. By defining their position as distinct from the State and the working Royal Family,the King is ensuring that their activities—including their charitable endeavors—are treated as personal matters rather than official royal engagements. The letter notes that the couple's ability to maintain financial independence and privacy will continue to be fully respected.

Meghan Markle’s "As Ever" brand eyes a potential UK expansion

While their royal status remains unchanged, Meghan Markle is clearly focused on her entrepreneurial ventures, specifically her lifestyle brand, As Ever. Launched in 2025, the brand has grown from a collection of preserves and kitchenware into a broader lifestyle label that includes wines, honey, and baking mixes. As Ever currently retails exclusively in the United States, the Duchess's move to the UK has sparked speculation about whether her products will soon be available to British consumers.

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An As Ever spokesperson said in March that while the brand is excited to explore new markets, no specific decisions have been made regarding international expansion. However, the brand's mission to bring "beauty and ease" to life as a host, guest, or mother aligns closely with the lifestyle-driven market in the UK. The Duchess has previously expressed pride in the brand's growth from a simple pot of jam into a wider home collection.

A return to the UK after six years in California

The relocation to the UK in August marks a significant shift for the family, who spent the last six years building a life in California .. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have returned with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, signaling a new chapter for the family unit. this move follows years of distance from the core royal circle and comes at a time of significant transition for the monarchy.

Will the Sussexes' charitable work remain strictly "personal"?

Despite the King's clarification, several questions remain regarding how the couple will navigate their public lives in the UK. The report notes that while their charitable work is a "personal matter," it is unclear how much visibility they will seek in the British philanthropic sector without official royal backing. Furthermore, it remains to be seen if the "personal latitude" granted by the King will allow them to maintain the same level of influence they held while living in the US.