What do I need to enter or remain in the UK if I am a BN(O) from Hong Kong?
Share this:
Who Qualify as British Nationals (Overseas)?
A British National (overseas) ((BN(O)) is someone who is a British overseas territories citizen by connection with Hong Kong, and was able to register as a British national (overseas) before 1 July 1997
OR:
A British overseas territories citizen from Hong Kong who did not register as British nationals (overseas) and had no other nationality/citizenship on 30 June 1997. Therefore they became British overseas citizens on 1 July 1997.
How can BN(O)s come to the UK without a Visa?
If you are a BN(O) citizen you can enter and stay in the UK as a visitor for up to 6 months - you do not need a visa. Note however that (as a visitor) you do not have the permission to live, work or take up long-term study in the UK.
What is the Hong Kong BN(O) Visa?
From 31 January 2021, BN(O) citizens and their close family members can apply to enter the UK (or remain in the UK if they are already here) for either a period of 30 months or 5 years. Once granted, you are entitled to work, study and have access to the NHS for the duration of the visa.
How much does the Hong Kong BN(O) Visa Cost?
The visa fee per applicant is £180 to for the 30 month visa, or £250 for the 5 year visa.
You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which costs £1,560 for 30 months or £3,120 for 5 years
Who count as Family Members of BN(O) citizens?
Qualifying dependants are family members that normally live with the main applicant, and they must make an application together with the main applicant. These include:
- spouse, civil partner or unmarried partner
- children (under the age of 18)
- adult children born on or after 1 July 1997 (and their spouse, or child under the age of 18)
- other family members (parent, grandparent, brother, sister, son or daughter) in exceptional circumstances where there is a high level of dependency
Are there other Requirements for the BN(O) Visa?
Applicants must evidence that they can adequately accommodate and financially support themselves and any of their family members for at least 6 months in the UK.
If you are already living in the UK for 12 months or more under another Visa category, you will not be required to meet this when making the visa application.
Tuberculosis (TB) Requirement
If you are applying from outside the UK, you will also need to take and provide a TB Test (certificate) at an approved clinic before you can come to the UK.
Can I live in the UK permanently on the BN(O) Visa?
BN(O) Visa holders will be able to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain’) after living in the UK for 5 years (and subject to meeting the requirements).
Once they have been settled in the UK for 12 months, they will then be eligible to apply for UK citizenship.
If you would like to find out more about our legal services, and how we can assist you in making a successful Hong Kong BN(O) application,
contact us Today on 0203 302 6864 or email:
info@immigrationadvicelondon.co.uk
Share this:
While every effort has been made to ensure that the information and law contained in this article is accurate and current as of the date of publication, we accept no responsibility for its accuracy or for any loss or damages arising from accessing, or the reliance, of this guidance.
Please also note that the information does not represent a complete statement of the Law and does not constitute legal advice.
If you would like specific professional advice about your UK immigration matter, please consider booking a consultation or one of my other legal services.
Making a UK Visa or Settlement application can be a stressful experience, and whilst there is a lot of ‘free’ information online, finding clear expert guidance that is up to date, and in line with your specific requirements can be a daunting task.
If you have any concerns about your case, it is recommended to reach out for advice from a trusted legal professional.
