Is It Possible to Move to the USA if Your Husband is a Member of the British Royal Family?

I often hear about the intriguing lives of members of the British royal family, particularly those living in the United States. Let's explore whether a British royal can actually make the move to the USA and what the process entails.

Living in Montecito: The Reality of Royal Life in America

Yes, there is indeed a couple residing in Montecito, California, who are members of the British royal family. It's no surprise to learn that some members of the royal family do choose to live in the USA. This leads us to wonder: is it possible for a British royal to move to the USA?

The answer is yes, but the situation for those like Princess Diana's son, Prince Harry, is rather specific. As mentioned, Harry's wife, Meghan Markle, is an American citizen, and they moved to the USA together. This arrangement is unique and may not translate to a straightforward scenario for every royal wishing to move to the USA.

Loss of Royal Titles Upon Move to the USA

While the British monarchy is largely a ceremonial institution, there are certain terms and conditions that members of the royal family face when they decide to live abroad. Specifically, Harry is expected to eventually renounce his royal titles and renounce the right of succession. This is because the USA does not recognize royal titles or the British monarchy in its official capacity.

Harry and Meghan's move to the USA was a significant step and came with its fair share of public and private negotiations. The couple had to adapt to a new lifestyle and leave behind a part of their royal life, including their former titles and privileges.

Requirements for Marriage to an American

For a British royal to marry an American, there are no additional restrictions beyond the usual requirements of any marriage. However, if the royal is considering moving to the USA permanently, they would need to adhere to the same immigration requirements as any other non-citizen.

Technically, a British royal could marry an American citizen, but if they wish to live in the USA permanently, they would have to become naturalized citizens. This involves many steps, including living in the USA for a certain period, passing a citizenship test, and showing a strong intent to live in the USA permanently.

The Naturalization Process

The naturalization process for a British royal or any other individual moving to the USA involves several key steps:

Citizenship Application: The individual must file Form N-400 with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Residency Requirements: Applicants must prove they have lived in the USA for the required period, usually five years for permanent residents or three years for those who are married to an American citizen. Citizenship Test: Applicants must take and pass a civics test and demonstrate proficiency in the English language. Background Check: A thorough background check is conducted to ensure the applicant has no criminal history. Interview: Applicants must attend an interview with USCIS officials to discuss their application and eligibility.

Once these steps are completed successfully, the applicant is sworn in as a US citizen, thus allowing them to maintain their residence in the USA without any restrictions.

It's worth noting that while a British royal can move to the USA, they would not retain their British royal titles. Once they renounce these titles and undergo the naturalization process, they become fully integrated into American society, albeit with possibly fewer privileges than before.

Conclusion

Whether a British royal can move to the USA is possible, but it involves a unique set of circumstances and a significant amount of paperwork and preparation. For any British royal wishing to make such a move, familiarizing themselves with the requirements of American immigration and naturalization is essential. Ultimately, while it's feasible, the process can be complex and multifaceted.

The stories of members like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle demonstrate that with the right circumstances and preparation, moving to the USA can be a reality for a British royal family member. But for others, it might mean relinquishing titles and adapting to a new life entirely.