Introduction
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has recently expressed openness to the idea of becoming a US citizen, despite still considering the UK his home. After relocating to California in 2020 with his wife Meghan Markle, the couple left behind their roles within the royal family and embarked on a new chapter of their lives. In a recent interview with “Good Morning America,” Prince Harry discussed his thoughts on American citizenship and shed light on the factors that may influence his decision.
Prince Harry’s Consideration of US Citizenship
During the interview, Prince Harry revealed that he has contemplated the idea of acquiring American citizenship. However, he emphasized that it is not currently a high priority for him. While he has spent a significant amount of time in the US since his move, Prince Harry admitted that he is still unsure about how he truly feels about this new chapter in his life.
“The American citizenship is a thought that has crossed my mind but is certainly not something that is a high priority for me right now.” – Prince Harry
Challenges and Obstacles
Although Prince Harry is open to the idea of US citizenship, he may face several challenges on his path to achieving it. One potential obstacle is his past recreational drug use, which he candidly discussed in his bestselling memoir. Admitting to using substances like cocaine, mushrooms, and marijuana throughout his life could potentially complicate his visa application process.
According to former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani, an admission of drug use is typically grounds for inadmissibility. Rahmani suggested that Prince Harry’s visa should have been denied or revoked based on his admissions. However, attorney James Leonard, who has experience in immigration cases, offered a different perspective, stating that as long as there are no criminal charges or findings of habitual drug use, the disclosures in Prince Harry’s memoir may not present a significant issue.
“Absent any criminal charge related to drugs or alcohol or any finding by a judicial authority that Prince Harry is a habitual drug user, which he clearly is not, I don’t see any issue with the disclosures in his memoir regarding recreational experimentation with drugs.” – James Leonard, Attorney
Renunciation of Titles
Another potential hurdle for Prince Harry in his pursuit of US citizenship is the requirement to renounce any hereditary titles or positions of nobility in a foreign state. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services mandates that applicants with such titles must formally renounce them in a public ceremony, with the renunciation recorded as part of the proceedings.
Currently, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle hold the title of Duke and Duchess of Sussex, which they have incorporated into their personal and professional endeavors. Renouncing these titles would not only impact their public image but also have legal implications for their future. It remains to be seen how Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will navigate this aspect of their potential US citizenship journey.
Prince Harry’s Affection for Life in the US
Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding his potential US citizenship, Prince Harry expressed his genuine appreciation for his life in the US. He described each day as amazing and expressed his love for the West Coast. It is clear that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have embraced their new surroundings and are actively engaged in various philanthropic endeavors.
Reflection on Leaving the UK
Prince Harry’s positive remarks about his life in the US come only a few months after he claimed to have been “forced” to leave the UK. In a statement read in a London court in December 2023, Prince Harry expressed his sadness over stepping back from his royal role and leaving the country. He emphasized the UK’s importance as his home and his desire for his children to feel a connection to their heritage.
“The UK is my home. The UK is central to the heritage of my children and a place I want them to feel at home as much as where they live at the moment in the US.” – Prince Harry
