British National (Overseas) Visa (for Individuals from Hong Kong)

The British National (Overseas) Visa (BN(O) Visa) is available to individuals from Hong Kong who are British National (Overseas) citizens. This visa allows BN(O) citizens to live, work, and study in the UK and is part of the UK’s commitment to support individuals from Hong Kong following the changes in their political landscape.

This visa offers a pathway to permanent settlement in the UK for eligible Hong Kong residents with BN(O) status.

Eligibility

To qualify for the British National (Overseas) Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• British National (Overseas) Status: You must be a BN(O) citizen or a dependent of a BN(O) citizen.
• Age Requirement: You must be aged 18 or over (if applying for yourself).
• Residency Requirement: You must be ordinarily resident in Hong Kong or in a country or territory where the BN(O) status is recognized.
• No Criminal Convictions: You must not have a serious criminal record or pose a security threat to the UK.
• Financial Requirements: You must show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents while in the UK, or have a sponsor who can support you.

Duration of Stay

The British National (Overseas) Visa allows you to stay in the UK for:

• Up to 5 years initially. After this period, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if you meet the necessary requirements, such as continuous residence in the UK.
• If you apply for a shorter stay, the visa can be granted for 2.5 years initially, with the possibility of extension.

Application Process

Timeline

You can apply for the British National (Overseas) Visa up to 3 months before your intended travel date. The application process includes:

• Proving your identity and BN(O) citizenship.
• Showing that you meet the financial requirements for you and any dependents.
• Submitting a completed application form and paying the application fee.
• Attending a biometric appointment for fingerprint and photograph submission.

Decision Timeframe

• 8 weeks is the usual processing time for BN(O) Visa applications, although it may vary depending on your case.

Rights and Restrictions

What You Can Do:

• Live, work, and study in the UK for the duration of your visa.
• Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years, if eligible.
• Bring your dependents (partner and children) to the UK if they meet the eligibility criteria.
• Travel freely in and out of the UK during your stay.

What You Cannot Do:

• Apply for public funds (benefits).
• Switch to most other visa categories while in the UK.
• Stay in the UK beyond the expiration of your visa unless you apply for an extension or ILR.

Get in touch with us now at Squadlead to make your British National (Overseas) Visa application process seamless and stress-free!