According to a source familiar with the couple’s plans, Prince Harry, 41, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, 45, will depart their Montecito home in Southern California and relocate to the United Kingdom in the coming weeks. The source told NBC News that King Charles was informed of the move on Sunday.
Family and schooling priorities
The Sussex family’s two children, Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5, have already been placed in British schools set to begin in September. Their enrollment suggests the family will complete the move within the next two weeks.
Royal status remains unchanged
Both Harry and Meghan will continue as private, non‑working members of the royal family. They will not reside in a royal palace nor resume official duties. The decision reflects a desire for a quieter life after stepping back from royal responsibilities in 2020.
Security arrangements remain undisclosed
Details of the couple’s security coverage have not been released. A spokesperson for the U.K. Home Office reiterated the department’s long‑standing policy of not providing specifics that could compromise safety.
Professional pursuits continue
Meghan is expected to keep operating her lifestyle brand, As Ever, from the United Kingdom. Harry’s charitable work, including Invictus and WellChild, is largely based in the U.K., making the move logistically simpler for his philanthropic efforts.
Background and recent tensions
The Sussexes first left the United Kingdom in 2020, citing a desire for greater independence. Their recent July visit to the U.K. was marked by a rescinded offer to stay at Buckingham Palace and security‑related travel adjustments. The last time the family was together in Britain was for Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in 2022.
Relations within the royal family have been strained for several years. Harry’s 2023 memoir, “Spare,” detailed grievances with his father, King Charles, and his brother, Prince William. Nevertheless, Harry has indicated a willingness to reconcile, noting in May 2025 that he did not know how much longer his father might live.
Comments from royal observers
India McTaggart, a royal correspondent for The Telegraph, told NBC News that moving back to the United Kingdom has long been Harry’s wish. She said, “He’s made no secret of his intention to bring his children here to reunite them with the king, his father, and the Spencer side of the family, and just have a place where he can come to the U.K. without the circus of his arrival.”
McTaggart added that while Harry’s relationship with Prince William remains “fraught,” he has begun speaking more frequently with his father. She also noted that the proximity to his charities and family likely influenced the decision.
When approached for comment, a spokesperson for the Sussexes did not deny the reported plans.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
