Why Meghan is called a princess on Archie's birth certificate

Lifestyle Team
Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with Archie
Meghan goes by 'Princess' on Archie's birth certificate. Photo: Getty Images

The Duchess of Sussex gave birth to her first child, a son named Archie, earlier this month.

The infant’s birth certificate was released this afternoon, revealing he was born at Portland Hospital in Westminster.

Aside from this revelation, most of the information contained in the certificate is already public knowledge – including the full names of Archie Harrison Mountbatten and his parents.

However, there is one crucial detail that has people scratching their heads: Meghan Markle’s occupation is listed as ‘Princess of the United Kingdom’.

We all know that Prince Harry is a Prince. He has officially held the title, ‘Prince Henry of Wales’, since his birth, although he has gone by ‘Duke of Sussex’ since his wedding.

Meghan has been called ‘Meghan, Duchess of Sussex’ since her marriage last year, but has never been officially referred to as Princess Meghan.

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex
Meghan has the right to go by the female equivalent of her husband's title. Photo: Getty Images

However, as the wife of Prince Harry, Meghan is entitled to use the female equivalent to his title – therefore she can go by Her Royal Highness Princess Henry of Wales.

However, much like her sister-in-law the Duchess of Cambridge, Meghan Markle goes by her duchess title.

Although it has never been commented on by the royal family, it is believed the Princess of Wales titles are not used because of their links to Diana, Princess of Wales, who died tragically in a car crash in 1997.

Princess Diana, Princess of Wales in New Zealand during April 1983.
It's believed the 'Princess of Wales' title is avoided out of respect for the late Princess Diana

It is likely this is why Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, the second wife of Prince Charles, does not use the princess title either.

Neither the Duchess of Cambridge or the Duchess of Sussex will be able to go by the title ‘Princess Catherine’ or ‘Princess Meghan’ in their own right.

This is a privilege reserved by those of royal birth, such as Prince Harry’s cousins, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice.

Words by Francesca Specter

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