FGI News and Publications

Effective January 31, 2021, a new visa route has become

available for British National Overseas (BNO) citizens from Hong

Kong. The Hong Kong BNO visa route will allow successful

applications the right to live, work, and study in the UK for up to

five years. After a continuous residence of five years, the visa

holder can apply for settlement in the UK, and after a further 12

months of settlement, may apply for British citizenship.

There are over 2.9 million people who hold BNO status. In order

to be eligible to apply, applicants and their dependents must

also:

Be a resident in Hong Kong, the UK, or the Crown

Dependencies;

Proof of financial support in the UK for at least six

months;

Commit to learning English in the UK, if applicable;

Hold a current tuberculosis test from a Home Office approved

clinic; and

Have no serious criminal convictions or other grounds for

refusal under the UK Immigration Rules.

The application is submitted via an online process. Biometrics

will be required but can be accepted digitally. A valid BNO

passport is not required though should be submitted to show proof

of BNO status.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general

guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought

about your specific circumstances.