Following the election of Donald Trump as the 47th U.S. president on November 5, 2024, the residency of Prince Harry in the United States is potentially under question. Concerns have been raised regarding his immigration status and past drug use.
The right-leaning Heritage Foundation has expressed doubts regarding Prince Harry’s immigration status, specifically in relation to confessions made in his memoir “Spare.” The group has filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security, alleging that the prince was given special treatment during his visa application. However, a U.S. judge has ruled to keep Harry’s visa application confidential, acknowledging his right to privacy in immigration matters.
President Trump has publicly expressed his disapproval of the Duke of Sussex, stating, “I wouldn’t protect him. He betrayed the Queen. That’s unforgivable.” Trump has also criticized the Biden administration for being “too gracious” to Harry, who now resides in Montecito, California.
There’s a history of tension between Trump and the Sussexes. Meghan Markle had previously labelled Trump as “misogynistic” and “divisive.” Meanwhile, Harry appeared to criticize Trump indirectly in a video, encouraging people to “reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity.” In retaliation, Trump stated he was “not a fan of hers” and hinted that Harry might find himself needing “a lot of luck.”
Eric Trump, however, offered a contrasting view on the matter, stating, “I don’t give a damn if he did drugs.” He suggested that Prince Harry’s visa status is secure because “no one cares” about him or his “unpopular” wife Meghan. Nevertheless, he also mentioned that the Trump family holds “tremendous respect for the monarchy.”
Reports suggest that the Sussexes have prepared backup plans. They are believed to have secured property in Portugal which could be used as an alternative residence should issues arise regarding Harry’s U.S. visa status. This location in Portugal would also enable easier access to the United Kingdom while maintaining their presence in Europe.
It’s noteworthy that Harry’s initial visa was granted under the Trump administration in 2020. However, if his visa falls under categories that could be scrutinized by the Trump administration, such as the O-1 visa for individuals with “extraordinary ability,” his U.S. residency could be in jeopardy. The Heritage Foundation might appeal its case under the new Trump administration, potentially prompting a review of Harry’s visa application.
Despite these potential obstacles, Harry and Meghan have settled into their life in the U.S., with Meghan even launching her own lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard. Although still in its early stages, it’s been revealed that the brand plans to offer a range of products, including jams, tableware, yoga accessories, and home goods.
However, the brand faced a hurdle in September when its trademark application was rejected. The brand’s name, derived from the popular moniker for Santa Barbara, California, was denied due to it being considered a commonly used regional term.
