WASHINGTO D.C.: King Charles III and Queen Camilla have commenced their first official state visit to the United States as reigning monarch and consort, arriving in Washington, D.C., on April 27, 2026.
The visit, which includes stops in New York and Virginia, is part of activities marking the 250th anniversary of American independence and is aimed at reinforcing the longstanding alliance between the United Kingdom and the United States.
According to Buckingham Palace, the trip highlights the deep-rooted economic, cultural and security relationships between both nations, as well as strong people-to-people connections developed over decades.
The visit also comes a year after Donald Trump made a state visit to the United Kingdom in 2025, underlining continued diplomatic engagement at the highest level.
Royal commentator Daisy McAndrew described the trip as the most significant foreign engagement undertaken by the king since his coronation.
In Washington, the royal couple held a private meeting and tea session with President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House. They also attended a ceremonial military review and a garden party.
A key highlight of the visit is King Charles’ address to the U.S. Congress on April 28 — only the second time a British monarch has delivered such a speech, following Queen Elizabeth II in 1991.
The speech is expected to focus on shared democratic values, global security, and the enduring partnership between both countries. It will also acknowledge recent security concerns following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
The day will conclude with a state dinner at the White House and a wreath-laying ceremony to honour fallen soldiers.
In New York City, the monarch and queen consort will participate in a memorial event honouring victims of the September 11 attacks ahead of its 25th anniversary.
King Charles is also scheduled to visit organisations addressing food insecurity among children, while Queen Camilla will attend literary and business events showcasing cultural and economic ties between both nations.
Their visit to New York will conclude with a reception celebrating the impact of The King’s Trust on youth development in the United States.
In Virginia, the royal couple will engage with local communities and attend cultural performances, including Appalachian showcases. They will also participate in a community block party commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.
The king is expected to meet with Indigenous groups focused on environmental conservation, while the queen will visit a farm highlighting transatlantic links in horse racing.
Despite being in the United States, King Charles is not expected to meet his son, Prince Harry, who resides in California with Meghan Markle and their children.
A source close to Harry indicated that the tight official schedule makes personal meetings inappropriate, given that the visit is a state-funded engagement.
The father and son last met in London in September 2025 after a prolonged period of strained relations
Following the U.S. visit, the royal couple will travel to Bermuda from May 1 to May 2, continuing their diplomatic engagements within the Commonwealth.
