Recently revealed records from the Trump administration suggest that Prince Harry may possess a unique diplomatic visa that permits him to reside in the United States indefinitely.
The Department of Homeland Security released a collection of immigration documents tied to a lawsuit from the Duke of Sussex regarding his immigration status, which came to light in March.
While these documents didn’t initially reveal much, they indicated a potential breach of privacy concerning Harry’s previous disclosures about drug use in his memoir, “Spare.” Authorities deemed it inappropriate to make that information public.
New documents unveiled this week suggest that founders of the Invictus Games, like Harry, could qualify for an “A-1” visa, which is typically reserved for heads of state and foreign royalty.
Immigration experts explain that this type of visa allows holders to travel freely with fewer security measures. “The State Department tends to issue an A-1 visa with minimal input from Homeland Security,” said immigration attorney Melissa Chavin.
She added that it’s likely Harry has applied for this visa multiple times over the years—perhaps around eight times, given its five-year duration. This could enable him to remain in the U.S. indefinitely, forming a unique status for him.
Another expert described this visa as akin to a “golden ticket,” suggesting that it affords Harry a sort of permanence in the U.S.
Harry’s representative was contacted for comments regarding this development.
Since stepping away from royal duties alongside his wife, Meghan Markle, in 2020, Harry has expressed that he is “enjoying” life in America.
He also plans to stay in the U.S. indefinitely after leaving his residence in Britain last spring. His estrangement from the royal family adds another layer to his relocation.
In his memoir, Harry candidly discussed his experimentation with substances like cocaine and cannabis—details that, according to reports, he was supposed to disclose when applying for his visa. He noted trying cocaine at the age of 17 to “feel different.”
The Heritage Foundation, a D.C.-based think tank, recently sought Harry’s visa details to investigate whether he was truthful about his drug history on his applications prior to moving.
They claim that Harry didn’t mention his past drug use in any forms submitted before his departure from the royal fold and the U.K.
If he had, those admissions would have been noted on a specific document sent to Homeland Security, according to lawyer Samuel Dewey.
As it stands, Harry’s precise visa status remains unclear. However, close sources have suggested that he filled out his visa application honestly.
Despite the controversies surrounding his immigration situation, former President Trump has stated he has no intention of deporting Harry, telling the Post earlier this year, “I’ll leave him alone.”
