Prince Harry and Meghan Markle face huge hurdle if they want to move into new Portugal home

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been left with a huge dilemma after reportedly forking out £3.6million for their sunny Portugal property.

The couple, who are living in America at the moment, have purchased the European property which has the added bonus of potentially obtaining residency and eventually EU citizenship for the Royals, which would allow them to travel freely through the European Union’s Schengen area.

However, that plan, which would be beneficial for their family, faces a huge setback as the duo would first need to get Portuguese citizenship. This involved taking a language test which is required before it is granted, meaning the Montecito-based couple would need to study in preparation.

According to Global Citizen Solutions, it “tests applicants’ ability to use and understand everyday language and expressions, such as talking about yourself and basic phrases you might use on a daily basis”. The website states applicants do not have to take a language test to obtain a residency permit, although they must complete it to gain citizenship and a Portuguese passport.

During a tour with Prince Harry in Columbia in August it was revealed Meghan Markle also spoke additional languages, including Spanish. For the final engagement of their four-day trip to the country, Meghan pleased crowds by translating for her husband – who couldn’t speak the language – for roaring crowds as he thanked the public for their “incredible hospitality”.

Admiring the couple on the tour, one person wrote on social media: “Love #PrinceHarry speaking Spanish, LOVE #MeghanMarkle as a translator. Love the cheers, what a visit!”