Recent administrative challenges involving Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s children have added new complexity to their ongoing separation from royal duties. Verified reports from The Guardian and BBC News indicate that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex encountered prolonged delays while securing British passports for their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, raising questions about procedural clarity within UK government departments.
According to The Guardian, the Sussexes experienced an extended wait—far exceeding the typical three-week timeframe—to obtain updated travel documents for their children. The couple allegedly reapplied using the expedited 24-hour service, which was subsequently canceled due to what was cited as a “systems failure.” Passport delays are not uncommon; however, delays of up to five months were reported in this instance.
Document Changes After Royal Title Adjustments
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle publicly confirmed in 2023 that their children would adopt the surname “Sussex”, consistent with their own titles as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Prior to this, Archie Mountbatten-Windsor had been the name used on his original travel documents. The change followed the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, after which Charles III ascended to the throne and the children were, by precedent and birthright under letters patent issued in 1917, entitled to use “Prince” and “Princess” titles.
Though the royal household had not publicly commented on the children’s formal styling, Buckingham Palace acknowledged in March 2023 that Archie and Lilibet would henceforth be recognized as Prince Archie of Sussex and Princess Lilibet of Sussex. These titles reflect their eligibility under the existing royal framework and were included in the Royal Family’s official website update.
No Comment from the Palace or Government on Passport Issuance
In response to questions from The Guardian, a Home Office spokesperson stated that the agency does not provide comment on individual passport applications. Buckingham Palace also declined to comment on private family matters and did not confirm or deny involvement in any administrative processes related to the Sussex children’s documents.
Despite the lack of public statements, the passports were ultimately issued after the couple took steps to seek clarity regarding the process. The case has brought attention to the intersection between government procedure and the role of constitutional monarchy, particularly in scenarios where members of the Royal Family live abroad but retain certain formal titles.
Prince Harry’s Legal Challenges Over Security Provision
In a separate but concurrent development, Prince Harry recently lost a legal challenge regarding the withdrawal of taxpayer-funded police protection during his visits to the United Kingdom. According to BBC News and The Guardian, the UK Court of Appeal upheld the earlier decision by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (RAVEC), which ruled that Harry was not entitled to the same level of automatic security after stepping back from royal duties in 2020.
In court filings, the Duke of Sussex argued that the reduction in security placed him and his family at risk and constituted unequal treatment. However, the court found that the Home Office had acted lawfully in making its determination, noting that Harry had been given opportunities to make representations throughout the decision-making process.
After the ruling, Harry expressed disappointment and concern over the implications, stating through legal counsel that the family was currently unable to return to the UK regularly due to safety concerns. Nonetheless, he affirmed his ongoing commitment to public service, even if from abroad.
Titles and Usage Post-Megxit
Since stepping down from royal duties in early 2020 under an agreement with the late Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle agreed to no longer use the styling of His/Her Royal Highness (HRH). However, these titles still legally exist and were reflected in communications relating to their children. Whether or not these designations appear on official documents such as passports is subject to internal UK protocols.
Under the current arrangements, the couple retains the titles of Duke and Duchess of Sussex, while their children now use the titles of Prince and Princess as per lineage entitlement.
Public Statements and Institutional Response
Similarly, UK government bodies have refrained from engaging in speculation or personal commentary, with all responses remaining aligned with standard non-disclosure practices around individual case matters.
Ongoing Public Engagement
Despite physical distance and logistical barriers, Prince Harry continues to participate in public-facing initiatives. He remains active in projects such as the Invictus Games, mental health advocacy, and digital safety forums. His most recent appearance was at the Responsible Digital Future Forum in Bogotá, Colombia, where he delivered remarks on youth empowerment and digital resilience.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex reside in California with their children and have continued to pursue charitable work through their foundation, Archewell.
Looking Ahead
While formal disagreements over titles, security, and documentation continue to make headlines, the future of the Sussex family’s relationship with the Royal Household remains open-ended. Prince Harry has reiterated his willingness to engage in reconciliation, emphasizing that forgiveness and truth-telling are necessary components of healing.
Legal and institutional developments have thus far provided clarity on policy matters but have not fully resolved interpersonal aspects of the rift. As official channels conclude their reviews and rulings, the question of personal reunion remains a private and evolving issue.
Verified Sources Referenced:
- The Guardian
- BBC News
- CNN
- ABC News
- Deadline
- Royal Family Official Website
