Prince Harry’s US residency is under fresh scrutiny as a court orders the release of his immigration files. Judge Carl Nichols has directed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide a redacted version of his visa application by Tuesday.
Court Revises Decision on Public Interest
The Heritage Foundation, a conservative US think tank, pushed for this disclosure. They suspect Harry may have concealed past drug use on his visa application. Last year, Judge Nichols ruled that the public had no significant interest in these records. However, he has now changed his stance.
Harry’s Drug Use Under Question
In his 2023 memoir Spare, Harry admitted to using cocaine, marijuana, and psychedelic mushrooms. He wrote: “Cocaine didn’t do anything for me” but added, “Marijuana is different, that actually really did help me.” The Heritage Foundation argues that such admissions should have affected his visa eligibility.
DHS Agrees to Release Redacted Documents
Initially, DHS resisted releasing Harry’s records. However, in February, government lawyers agreed to provide censored versions. DHS attorney John Bardo confirmed they would remove classified or sensitive information before making the files public.
Trump Comments on Harry’s Residency
Former US President Donald Trump also shared his opinion on the matter. In February, he told The New York Post, “I’ll leave him alone.” However, he mocked Meghan Markle, saying: “He’s got enough problems with his wife. She’s terrible.”
Later, in a March 2023 interview with GB News’ Nigel Farage, Trump took a firmer stance. He said, “No. We’ll have to see if they know something about the drugs, and if he lied, they’ll have to take appropriate action.”
Harry’s Life in the US
Harry and Meghan moved to the US in 2020 after leaving the Royal Family. They now live in California with their children, Archie and Lilibet.
As the deadline for document disclosure approaches, the debate over Harry’s visa status is heating up. If the files reveal discrepancies, it could lead to serious consequences for the prince.