London: Meghan Markle has apparently abandoned plans to become a British citizen, one year after stepping back from royal life.
Despite tentatively starting the process when she married Prince Harry, the Duchess of Sussex found no reason to pursue it after they decided to set up home in California.
It was one year ago that the couple made the announcement that they no longer wanted to be working members of the royal family.
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex with Prince Harry and their son Archie.Credit:AP
Regret and sadness were expressed on both sides, but within three months, a deal had been struck with Buckingham Palace and the couple left Britain to embark on their new lives with the Queen's blessing.
Since then, it has become ever clearer that the family has no plans to return. Having purchased a mansion in the enclave of Montecito in Santa Barbara, the Sussexes have gradually announced a string of long-term business deals and investments, and plan to enrol their son Archie at a school in the area.
Reports that they are seeking a one-year extension to the so-called "Megxit" deal agreed with the royal family are wide of the mark, however. Neither the Sussexes nor senior royals see any need to extend a deal that was simply considered a time period to transition, focused on issues such as security and finances. The only outstanding matters are Harry's honorary military titles, which were removed over a one-year review period, and their patronages.
Discussions will take place on those matters before an announcement is made in due course, although it is widely expected that the titles, at least, will be transferred to other members of the family.
With no plans to return, there was "no reason" to pursue Meghan's application for dual citizenship, a source confirmed, and the process was quietly dropped. Similarly, it is understood that Harry has no plans to seek US citizenship.
The Telegraph, London
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