Canadian taxpayers spent at least $539,575 on RCMP security for Prince Harry during his visits to Canada between 2014 and 2020, according to newly released documents.

The costs covered trips related to the Invictus Games and visits to see Meghan Markle before and after their relationship became public.

The amount was higher than previous estimates and exceeded security expenses for other internationally protected visitors during the same period.

The RCMP said such protection is required under international agreements and covers expenses like travel and overtime, News Nation has reported.

The spending has sparked criticism from some Canadians, especially because much of the time involved personal visits rather than official royal duties.