In an unexpected interview with GB News’ Nigel Farage on Tuesday, March 19, Donald Trump hinted at the possible deportation of Prince Harry should Trump return to office.
“Appropriate action will be taken if he lied,” Trump stated, alluding to the visa application submitted by Prince Harry.
These remarks from Trump have reignited public interest in Prince Harry’s immigration status, particularly in relation to his confessions of past drug use in his book titled “Spare”.
Trump has been vocal in his criticism of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for their decision to step away from royal duties and move to the U.S. He often underscores what he views as their lack of respect towards Queen Elizabeth II. Trump has suggested in public statements that inconsistencies in Harry’s visa application, particularly concerning his past drug use, could endanger his immigration status.
The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, has been instrumental in fuelling the debate by questioning the transparency of Harry’s immigration process. They lodged a Freedom of Information Act request last year and sued the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to gain access to Harry’s immigration records, citing his admitted drug use as a potential factor affecting his immigration status. Yet, the Biden administration has withheld these documents, preferring to maintain privacy rather than public disclosure.
Legal experts and immigration specialists have suggested that Trump’s comments might be more politically motivated rather than based on concrete legal standards. They highlight that past drug use does not automatically disqualify someone from being eligible for a U.S. visa. Instead, each application is evaluated individually, with honesty and context being key factors.
In response to Trump’s deportation hints, understanding the legal framework is essential. U.S. visa applications include questions about illegal drug use, where dishonesty can result in severe penalties. However, the U.S. immigration system does provide for certain waivers and considerations, particularly if the applicant can demonstrate rehabilitation or if the drug use was minimal.
Prince Harry has shown no interest in acquiring U.S. citizenship at this time. His legal team maintains that the revelations in his book do not equate to formal admissions of drug use in a legal context, thus countering their impact on his visa status.
Earlier this month, a federal judge ruled that the Department of Homeland Security must submit Harry’s visa paperwork for judicial review. The goal is to determine if the documents should be made available to the public. On Sunday, March 17, the department’s attorneys requested additional time to locate the documents.
