Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could be back in the UK within days, but their return may not mark a permanent move to Britain.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are reportedly preparing to relocate from California to the UK with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. However, according to a person close to the couple, the family has not decided how long they will remain in Harry’s home country.

Sussex family could spend months or longer in Britain

Reports last week claimed that Archie and Lilibet had already been enrolled at schools in Britain. The name and location of the school have not been disclosed.

The family is also expected to live in a private, non-royal property rather than a royal residence. Its location is being kept confidential for security reasons.

No official explanation has been given for the decision to return to the UK.

While the move could represent a significant change for the Sussexes, who have spent the past six years living in Montecito, California, a source close to the couple has suggested that Britain may only be their home for a limited period.

Speaking to The Times, the source said the stay could last “six months,” “a year,” or potentially longer, adding that Harry and Meghan themselves may not yet know how long they will remain.

The source also pointed to the freedom the couple have as private individuals, suggesting they could eventually decide to spend time in other countries.

“They might suddenly go: ‘Why don’t we try Canada for a while? Why don’t we try Australia?’” the source said. “It’s one of the great things about being private individuals [that they can live where they choose].”

Why are Harry and Meghan returning?

Harry and Meghan have not publicly commented on the reported move.

Several explanations have circulated, although none has been officially confirmed. One suggestion is that Harry wants to spend more time closer to his father, King Charles.

There have also been reports that Meghan has been offered an acting role based in Britain. However, there is no official confirmation that such an opportunity is behind the family’s decision to relocate.

The timing of the move would allow Archie and Lilibet to settle in before beginning at their new school. The family is reportedly expected to travel from California before the end of August.

Their homes and pets will remain divided between the US and UK

Despite the reported relocation, the Sussexes are not expected to give up their ties to the United States.

Their Montecito property is reportedly being retained, as is the family’s holiday home in Portugal. Their chickens are also expected to remain at the California residence.

The family’s two dogs, meanwhile, are reportedly set to travel with Harry and Meghan to the UK.

For now, the reported move appears to leave the Sussexes with homes and commitments on both sides of the Atlantic. Whether Britain ultimately becomes a longer-term base or simply another temporary chapter remains unclear.