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Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet’s Titles Hang in the Balance Amid Harry’s Citizenship Consideration
In a fascinating twist within the British Royal Family, Prince Archie Harrison and Princess Lilibet Diana may still hold onto their royal titles, even if Prince Harry decides to relinquish his own.
This insight comes from a family lawyer based in the United States, shedding light on the complexities of royal titles and citizenship.
Both Archie and Lilibet became eligible for royal titles when King Charles ascended the throne in September 2022.
Their status as grandchildren of the king means they have rights that are not easily forfeited.
Speculation has arisen following Harry's recent comments about possibly pursuing U.S. citizenship, similar to other members of his family.
Meghan Markle, Harry's wife, retained her American passport after their marriage in 2018.
Moreover, their children, Archie and Lilibet, are entitled to U.S. citizenship by birthright.
While it's clear that Harry would have to give up his royal titles if he chose to become a U.S. citizen, lawyer Alphonse Provinziano clarified that this wouldn't automatically affect his children's titles.
Provinziano elaborated in an interview with the Daily Express, suggesting that the high-profile nature of this situation makes it unlikely for Harry to fully separate from the royal fold.
He emphasized that under U.S. law, Archie and Lilibet can retain their surnames and titles since they were born as American citizens and do not need to renounce anything.
This legal nuance is significant.
Natural-born U.S. citizens like Archie and Lilibet enjoy certain entitlements that are often conferred in an honorary capacity.
A historical example includes Rudolph Giuliani, who received an honorary knighthood from the Queen after the events of 9/11.
The implications of Harry's potential decision are intriguing.
If he were to step down and abandon his titles, there's a hypothetical scenario where Archie could ascend to the throne if Prince William's children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—were to abdicate.
Currently, Archie sits in sixth place in the line of succession, just behind his father.
Provinziano pointed out that should circumstances change, Archie could emerge as a leading candidate for the throne.
This perspective adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing narrative surrounding the Sussexes and their ties to the monarchy.
Harry has already distanced himself from British citizenship and titles, thereby removing himself from the line of succession.
However, the lawyer reiterated that Archie and Lilibet's royal titles remain intact, irrespective of Harry's choices regarding his own citizenship.
As discussions around royal titles and citizenship swirl, the future remains uncertain for the Sussex family.
The dynamics of royal lineage, citizenship laws, and personal choices create a complex web that will undoubtedly continue to evolve.