British National (Overseas) Visa Guide

BNO status represents a unique form of British nationality created specifically for Hong Kong residents during the 1997 handover.

This special immigration category allows BNO status holders and their close family members to live, work, and study in the UK, leading to settlement after 5 years. Over 144,500 BNO visa applications were accepted in the first year, demonstrating the route's significance for Hong Kong residents seeking opportunities in the UK.

Eligibility criteria

BNO status comes with specific rights and limitations that affect visa applications:-

• Must be registered as a British National (Overseas). Status can be checked through historical records if passport expired.

• Must be a Hong Kong permanent resident, with documentary evidence and normally live in Hong Kong, though applications possible from UK or elsewhere.

• Financial capability - ability to support yourself and any dependents during stay.

• Tuberculosis test required if applying from Hong Kong, must be from approved clinic.

BNO family members

BNO status cannot be passed to children or acquired through other means. However, the visa route includes provisions for various family relationships and eligible dependents include :-

• Spouse or unmarried partner - must show genuine and subsisting relationship.

• Children under 18 - Including those born after 1997.

• Adult children born after 1997 - If applying as part of family unit.

• Grandchildren under 18 -In specific circumstances.

• Other family members - where exceptional circumstances exist.

Financial Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate adequate funds. With a single applicant he/she musr demonstrate a minimum of £3,120 in savings held for 28 days. With family applications there are additional amounts per dependent of

• Partner: £3,120

• First child: £3,120

• Each additional child: £2,040

Other acceptable financial proof is :-

• UK job offer

• Meeting minimum salary requirements.

• Combined family income

• From employment or self-employment.

• Third-party support

Application Process

Clear process to follow of :

• Online Application - complete form on UK government website.

• Biometrics - attend appointment for fingerprints and photo.

• Document Upload - submit supporting evidence electronically.

• Processing Time - standard 3-month waiting period.

• Visa Duration - There are 2 duration choices available of 2.5 years or 5 years. The latter is around twice as expensive and costs £3,300.00 plus a healthcare surcharge of £624.00 per year

Rights and conditions that come with a BNO visa

Visa holders can:

• Work - any employment or self-employment permitted.

• Study - no restrictions on course type.

• Healthcare - full NHS access after paying surcharge.

• Travel - enter and leave UK freely.

Important limitations include no access to public funds initially, requirement to maintain UK residence for settlement and must update Home Office of changes.

Permanent settlement via BNO route

Requirements for permanent residence are :-

• 5 years continuous residence.

• Absences of no more than 180 days per year.

• Language - B1 English level required.

• Life in the UK test - must pass before applying.

• Current fee paid - £2,885.00 per person.

Contact us for a detailed assessment of your BNO visa application needs.