Prince Harry's residency in the United States may face renewed scrutiny as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office. Trump's critical stance on the Duke of Sussex, coupled with Harry's admissions of past drug use in his memoir, Spare, has intensified speculation about his future in the country.
Trump, who has long been vocal about his disapproval of the Sussexes, previously suggested that Harry could face deportation. Speaking to Express US, Trump said, "I wouldn't protect him. He betrayed the Queen. That's unforgivable. He would be on his own if it was down to me." His comments, echoed throughout his campaign, have raised concerns that his administration could take action regarding Harry's immigration status.
The controversy stems from Harry's detailed accounts of drug use in his memoir, where he admitted to experimenting with marijuana, cocaine, and psychedelic mushrooms. "Marijuana is different, that actually really did help me," he wrote. He also described an experience with mushrooms, saying, "I stared at the bin. It stared back. Then it became... a head."
The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, has filed a lawsuit demanding the release of Harry's immigration records to determine whether he disclosed his drug history in his visa application. U.S. visa law requires applicants to disclose past drug use, which can lead to rejection or revocation of their status.
Adding to the pressure, Trump has appointed South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as head of the Department of Homeland Security. Known for her stringent immigration policies, Noem's leadership could signal heightened scrutiny on high-profile cases like Harry's.
Earlier this year, Trump accused the Biden administration of protecting Harry by keeping his immigration records private. Speaking to Nigel Farage on GB News, Trump said, "If he lied, they'll have to take appropriate action." When asked if deportation was a possibility, he added, "We'll have to see... You would have thought they would have known this a long time ago."
In September, a federal judge ruled that Harry's visa records should remain private, but the Heritage Foundation has continued its legal battle, arguing that transparency is necessary. The think tank's lawsuit stems from a rejected Freedom of Information Act request aimed at uncovering details about Harry's visa application.
Legal experts have suggested that if Harry failed to disclose his drug use or if inconsistencies are found between his visa application and his memoir, it could have significant consequences. Alphonse Provinziano, a Beverly Hills attorney specializing in immigration cases, warned, "If Harry misrepresented his drug use on his visa application, it could be grounds for the government to pursue his deportation."
The Sussexes relocated to the United States in 2020 after stepping back from royal duties, settling in California. Their move followed a public fallout with the British monarchy and strained relations with Trump. Meghan Markle had previously criticized Trump during the 2016 election, calling him "divisive and misogynistic." In response, Trump referred to Meghan as "nasty" and has since shown little support for the couple's presence in the U.S.
As Trump prepares to implement stricter immigration policies, Harry's legal situation may face increased scrutiny. Immigration law allows officials to use discretion in cases of past drug use, but Trump's administration is expected to take a tougher stance on such issues. Reports suggest Trump could prioritize cases involving alleged misrepresentation, leaving Harry's residency in question.
