Buckingham Palace is preparing for a significant transatlantic journey, as King Charles III is scheduled to undertake a state visit to the United States next year. The monarch will meet with President Donald Trump to help mark the historic 250th anniversary of the US.
Details of the Landmark Visit
According to reports, the King has received an official invitation from Washington D.C. for the visit, which is planned for April 2026. The trip will form a central part of a series of celebrations orchestrated by the Trump administration to commemorate the nation's founding. A Palace source confirmed the King is expected to be accompanied by his wife, Queen Camilla, for the landmark occasion.
However, the plans remain contingent on one crucial factor: the King's health. The 77-year-old head of state is currently undergoing treatment for cancer, and the final decision will be subject to him being well enough to travel. Buckingham Palace has yet to issue an official comment on the reported arrangements.
A Recent Reciprocal Engagement
This planned visit follows a notable previous engagement between the two figures. In September 2025, King Charles welcomed President Trump to the UK for an unprecedented second state visit by the same president.
During that event, the US leader was treated to the full spectacle of British military pomp and ceremony at Windsor Castle. The itinerary also included meetings with other prominent members of the Royal Family and bilateral talks with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
A Busy Schedule of Overseas Diplomacy
Since ascending the throne, King Charles has maintained an active diplomatic schedule, having already completed more than a dozen overseas trips. His official state visits have included destinations such as France, Italy, and Kenya.
Just last month, both the King and Queen undertook a visit to the Holy See to meet Pope Leo XIV for the Catholic Church's jubilee year. This was a historically significant moment, as it marked the first time since the Reformation that a British monarch publicly prayed with a pope.
Looking ahead to 2026, the King's diary is filling up. Alongside the potential US trip, he is also due to conduct a royal tour of Canada. Furthermore, a visit to Antigua and Barbuda is planned to attend the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.
