BNO Status

What is British National Overseas (BNO)?

People who were British overseas territories citizens by connection with Hong Kong were able to register as a British national (overseas) before 1 July 1997. British overseas territories citizens from Hong Kong who did not register as British nationals (overseas) and had no other nationality or citizenship on 30 June 1997 became British overseas citizens on 1 July 1997. Please note that, If people are not already a British national (overseas), they cannot apply to become one.

What is a Hong Kong BNO visa?

The Hong Kong BNO visa is a UK visa option for eligible Hong Kong residents who hold or are eligible to apply for BNO status. It is designed to provide a pathway for Hong Kong residents to live and work in the UK for an extended period, offering a level of security and stability that many individuals in Hong Kong find increasingly attractive.

Who can apply for a BNO visa?

If you’re from Hong Kong and are a British national (overseas) you and your family members can apply for a BNO visa.

If you’re the child of a British national (overseas) aged 18 or older and born on or after 1 July 1997, you can apply separately from your parent. Your family members can also apply with you.

Requirements of BNO visa

You can apply for a BNO visa if you’re 18 or older and either:

• a British national (overseas)

• the child of a British national (overseas) born on or after 1 July 1997

Your permanent home must be:

• in Hong Kong, if you’re applying from outside the UK

• in the UK, the Channel Islands, Isle of Man or Hong Kong if you’re applying in the UK

Do BNO visa holders have the Right to Work in the UK?

Yes, BNO Visa holders have the Right to Work in the UK, they also have the right to study and access the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.

How long you can stay under the BNO visa?

You can apply to stay for either of the following durations:

a. 2-year and 6-month visa.

b. 5-year visa.

If you wish to extend your stay, you can apply for visa extensions while in the UK, and there is no limit to the number of times you can apply for extensions.

After residing in the UK for a continuous period of 5 years, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency in the UK.

Does a BNO visa lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain?

Yes, after residing in the UK for five years, BNO visa holders can apply for settled status (indefinite leave to remain).

Can BNO visa holders apply for British citizenship?

Yes, after 12 months of indefinite leave to remain, you can apply for British citizenship.

How can WorkPermitCloud help?

For those considering the Hong Kong BNO visa, gathering the necessary documentation and meeting the eligibility criteria is important. Consulting with an immigration advisor can help streamline the application process and ensure that all requirements are met. WorkPermitCloud has a team of professional immigration advisers who can assist you throughout the journey to maximise the probability of success on your visa applications. Book our professional Immigration service to make your application bundle ready at info@workpermitcloud.co.uk.