Why Archie and Lilibet May Be Princes Without HRH Titles

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s children, Archie and Lilibet, are expected to be formally recognized as prince and princess in the future. However, according to sources close to the royal household, they are unlikely to receive the HRH (His or Her Royal Highness) style when King Charles III confirms their titles.

Archie, who is three years old, and Lilibet, who is one, became eligible for princely titles following the accession of King Charles III. Under long-standing royal conventions, grandchildren of the monarch in the male line are entitled to be known as prince or princess.

Despite this, sources suggest that Archie and Lilibet will not be styled as HRH. The reason is linked to the couple’s decision to step back from their roles as senior working royals and relocate to the United States. As a result, while the children may hold royal titles, they would not be expected to carry out official duties on behalf of the Crown.

Some media reports have claimed that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are disappointed by this decision, particularly given that other members of the wider royal family, such as Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, continue to use HRH styles despite not being full-time working royals.

Sources say the Sussexes have raised concerns related to status and security, arguing that titles traditionally come with certain protections. Discussions on the matter reportedly took place following the late Queen’s death, as the royal household reviewed how titles would be applied going forward.

Royal experts note that this situation follows a long-established precedent. After their divorces, both Princess Diana and Sarah Ferguson retained their duchess titles but lost the HRH style. Sarah Ferguson, for example, is still known today as the Duchess of York, without HRH.

The apparent compromise allows Archie and Lilibet to be recognized as prince and princess, while keeping the HRH style reserved for active working members of the royal family. This approach aligns with rules introduced by King George V in 1917, designed to limit the number of royals using the HRH designation.

While the titles may be used socially in the United States, royal commentators emphasize that Archie and Lilibet are not expected to become working royals in the future. For this reason, the absence of HRH is seen as consistent with modern royal practice.

After stepping away from royal duties, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle themselves stopped using their own HRH styles. Observers say the same principle is now being applied to their children as the monarchy adapts to a smaller, more streamlined structure.