The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are understood to be moving back to the UK later this month in a shock development six years after they relocated to the US.

The couple are expected to make their home in a non-royal residence outside of London and have already enrolled Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet in British schools.

The King, who is living with cancer, was first made aware of the move on Sunday, three days before the news was made public, but he is understood to welcome the opportunity to see more of the family.

It is understood there will be no change to Harry and Meghan’s role and status as private individuals and non-working members of the royal family, and they will not be offered a “half-in-half-out” option when it comes to these roles.

The Sussexes remain estranged from the Prince and Princess of Wales after Harry levelled a barrage of accusations against William, Kate, the King and Queen Camilla in the years since the Megxit crisis of 2020.

Home Office affirms government's 'protective security system' as Harry and Meghan set to return

Following the news that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will move back to Britain later this month, a Home Office spokesperson said: “The UK government’s protective security system is rigorous and proportionate.

“It is our long-standing policy not to provide detailed information on those arrangements, as doing so could compromise their integrity and affect individuals’ security.”

The home secretary does not get involved in security arrangements for members of the royal family or other key public figures, and decisions are taken by the executive committee for the protection of royalty and public figures (Ravec).

The committee’s membership includes the home office, Metropolitan Police and royal household, who work together to advise the independent chair in making decisions, which are informed by expert risk assessments and in line with government policy.

Harry and Meghan to retain homes in California and Portugal

The Sussexes are expected to retain their homes in Montecito, California, and Portugal, while the duchess will continue to run her lifestyle brand As Ever from their new base outside of London.

The Sussexes return

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex plan to move back to Britain in a shock development more than six years after they relocated to the US, the Press Association understands.

The couple will return to the UK later this month – making their home in a non-royal residence outside of London – and have already enrolled Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet in British schools.

It is understood there will be no change to Harry and Meghan’s role and status as private individuals and non-working members of the royal family.