Prince Harry, Meghan Markle to remain 'non-working royals' in UK, King Charles III confirms

Prince Harry and Meghan , the Duchess of Sussex, will remain "private citizens" and not be working royals while living in the United Kingdom, according to a letter released Monday by the head of the Royal Household.

The letter reiterating Harry and Meghan's official position was sent under the direction of Harry's father, King Charles III .

It is the first time Charles and the palace have commented publicly on Harry and Meghan's move back to the U.K., which comes six years after they stepped awa y from their senior royal roles and moved to California.

Harry and Meghan were "surprised” by the letter, their spokesperson told ABC News Tuesday. The couple has not commented further.