Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, were surprised by a letter issued on behalf of King Charles III that reaffirmed their status as non-working members of the British royal family, according to reports. The letter was sent to senior government, military and other officials as the couple recently returned to the United Kingdom with their two children.

A spokesperson for Harry and Meghan said the couple was “a little surprised not to have been told about this in advance.” The letter was issued through the Lord Chamberlain and reiterated that the Sussexes are not working royals and should be treated as private citizens rather than members carrying out official royal duties.

The communication also clarified that any charitable activities undertaken by Harry and Meghan are conducted in a private capacity. Their royal titles remain, but they do not use the “His Royal Highness” or “Her Royal Highness” styles publicly. The arrangement reflects the decision reached after the couple stepped back from senior royal duties in 2020.

The timing of the letter is notable because Harry, Meghan and their children recently returned to Britain after spending years living primarily in the United States. Their return has generated renewed attention over their relationship with the royal family and what role, if any, they could play in public life while residing in the United Kingdom.

The couple’s representative said they were not informed about the letter before it was distributed. However, royal sources have disputed that characterization, saying Harry and Meghan were made aware of the communication before it became public.

The letter also comes as officials consider security arrangements for the Sussexes during their time in Britain. Decisions regarding their protection are handled through the Royal and VIP Executive Committee, known as RAVEC.

Harry and Meghan have continued to maintain commercial and charitable activities outside the official structure of the monarchy since stepping away from royal duties. The latest communication from the King does not restore them to working-royal status, but instead reiterates the boundaries that have governed their relationship with the institution since 2020.

The couple has not announced any plans to resume official royal duties.