Prince Harry’s future in the United States could be in jeopardy as questions arise over the accuracy of his visa application. The Duke of Sussex has been residing in Montecito, California, with
Meghan Markle and their two children, Archie and Lilibet, since stepping down as a senior royal in 2020. However, revelations from his 2023 memoir Spare, in which he admitted to past drug use, have prompted doubts about whether he disclosed this information when applying for his visa.
Unlike Meghan, a U.S. citizen who did not require special permissions, Harry’s residency in the U.S. hinges on his visa status. If discrepancies are found in his application, the repercussions could be severe. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly stated that "appropriate action" would be taken if Harry is found to have lied on his application. This has fueled speculation, given Trump’s prior criticism of the couple.
Public Calls for Transparency
The Washington-based Heritage Foundation is advocating for the release of Harry’s visa application to determine whether he was truthful about his past drug use. Nile Gardiner, director of the foundation’s Margaret Thatcher Center, has been vocal about the matter, adding to the mounting pressure. While the details remain sealed, legal experts note that misrepresentation on visa documents can lead to penalties, including revocation.
Royal Rift Complicates Matters
The visa issue comes at a time of personal and familial strain for Harry. Amid ongoing tensions with the British royal family, it’s been suggested that Harry and Meghan are unlikely to join King Charles and other royals for festive celebrations. Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams highlighted the "huge rift" between the couple and the family, noting their absence from recent gatherings.
Harry and Meghan’s 2017 and 2018 Christmases at Sandringham remain among their last shared moments with the royals. Since then, their public disclosures, including the Netflix series Harry & Meghan, have only deepened divisions.
A Rocky Path Ahead
As scrutiny of his visa intensifies, Harry faces an uncertain future in the U.S. While supporters argue that his revelations in Spare reflect honesty, critics view them as potential liabilities. The Duke’s residency status, coupled with strained royal ties, places him at a crossroads in both personal and public life.
With Trump’s two-word warning looming and calls for transparency growing louder, Harry’s "American dream" could face significant challenges. For now, the Duke of Sussex remains in California, awaiting clarity on his visa status and navigating a path fraught with legal and familial complexities. Photo by DoD News Features, Wikimedia commons.
