The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are making headlines once again with their decision to relocate back to the United Kingdom. This move comes more than six years after they stepped away from their senior royal roles in 2026, a period that became famously known as Megxit.
Since then, the family of four has been residing in Montecito, California. Now, they are set to resettle in the UK, with Archie and Lilibet preparing to start school in September, according to reports from The Telegraph.
The Sussexes’ Return to the UK
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have not publicly confirmed their move from California to the UK. However, sources close to the family have revealed that they plan to live in a private, non-royal residence near London. This decision comes after they were asked to vacate their former royal residence, Frogmore Cottage, in 2026.
King Charles III was informed of his son and daughter-in-law’s plans on Sunday, August 16. Neither Buckingham Palace nor Kensington Palace has commented on the move. The last time Harry and Meghan visited the UK was in July, when Harry undertook several public engagements. During this visit, Charles and Queen Camilla met with the Sussexes and their children, marking the first time the royal couple had seen Meghan and their grandchildren since 2026.
Royal Status and Living Arrangements
There are no plans for Harry and Meghan to resume their senior royal roles. A source familiar with the matter confirmed that King Charles is clear there will be no alteration to Harry and Meghan’s role and status as private individuals and non-working royals. This decision aligns with the agreement made in 2026, when they stepped away from their royal duties.
The Sussexes have not officially confirmed what they plan to do with their home in Montecito, California. According to reports, they plan to maintain their current residence in Montecito as well as their residence in Portugal. It remains unclear whether they will sell their Montecito mansion or keep it as a secondary residence.
Security and Citizenship
The family’s security arrangements once they move to the UK have not been publicly disclosed. Harry lost an appeal last year challenging the British government’s decision to reduce his publicly funded security following his and Meghan’s decision to step back as senior working royals. The Sussexes have relied on a privately funded security team since moving to California.
Prince Harry is not known to have obtained his U.S. citizenship during the six years he has lived in California. In 2026, he mentioned in an interview with ABC News’ Will Reeve that he has considered getting his American citizenship but stated it is not a high priority for him at the moment. Meghan, being born in California, is already a U.S. citizen.
As the Sussex family prepares for this significant move, many questions remain about their future in the UK. One thing is certain: their return will have a profound impact on the royal family and the public’s perception of the Sussexes.
