The British National (Overseas) (BN(O)) Visa is a UK immigration route that allows Hong Kong residents holding BN(O) status and their family members to live, work, and study in the United Kingdom. Introduced in 2021 in response to political developments in Hong Kong, this visa offers a path to settlement and eventual British citizenship for eligible individuals. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the BN(O) visa, covering eligibility criteria, application requirements, costs, and pathways to settlement.
1. What is the BN(O) Visa?
The BN(O) Visa is a special visa for Hong Kong residents with British National (Overseas) status, a status given to Hong Kong residents who registered for it before the 1997 handover from British to Chinese sovereignty. The BN(O) visa allows these individuals and their close family members to live in the UK, with options to work, study, and eventually apply for British citizenship.
Key Benefits of the BN(O) Visa:
- Provides permission to live, work, and study in the UK.
- Allows eligible family members to accompany the BN(O) status holder.
- Leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years and British citizenship after six years.
The visa is initially granted for either 2.5 or 5 years and can be extended if certain conditions are met.
2. Who is Eligible for the BN(O) Visa?
To qualify for the BN(O) visa, applicants must meet specific criteria related to their BN(O) status and family relationships.
Main Applicant Requirements:
- BN(O) Status: The primary applicant must hold British National (Overseas) status, which was available to Hong Kong residents who registered before 1997.
- Residency in Hong Kong: The applicant should currently reside in Hong Kong or the UK.
Family Members Who Can Apply:
Certain family members are eligible to apply as dependents if they are traveling with or joining the BN(O) status holder in the UK:
- Spouse or Civil Partner: Legally married or in a registered civil partnership with the BN(O) status holder.
- Unmarried Partner: In a committed relationship similar to marriage for at least two years.
- Children Under 18: Dependent children of the BN(O) status holder.
- Adult Children (over 18): If they live with the BN(O) status holder due to medical needs or disability.
The main applicant must apply for family members at the same time or be in the UK for dependents to join later.
3. Required Documents for the BN(O) Visa Application
A range of documents are required to demonstrate BN(O) status, family relationships, and financial stability.
For the Main Applicant:
- BN(O) Passport: Proof of British National (Overseas) status, even if expired.
- Hong Kong Identity Card: Showing current residency in Hong Kong.
- Financial Evidence: Documents showing that the applicant can support themselves for at least six months without recourse to public funds. This may include bank statements, savings, or proof of income.
For Dependents:
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage or civil partnership certificate for spouses; birth certificates for children.
- Proof of Dependency: Evidence of dependency for adult children over 18 (e.g., medical records if necessary).
- Passport and ID: Valid passport and Hong Kong ID card.
Having these documents organized and up-to-date will help avoid delays during the application process.
4. Financial Requirements for the BN(O) Visa
BN(O) visa applicants must show they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members for at least six months in the UK. This is to ensure that applicants will not require public funds while settling in the UK.
Types of Financial Evidence:
- Bank Statements: Recent bank statements showing savings or income.
- Employment Income: Proof of ongoing employment or expected income in the UK.
- Support from Family Members: If family members are providing financial support, they may need to submit proof as well.
There is no specific minimum income threshold, but funds should be sufficient to cover rent, food, utilities, and other living expenses.
5. How to Apply for the BN(O) Visa
The BN(O) visa application is made online and can be completed by applicants both inside and outside the UK. Here are the general steps:
- Complete the Online Application: Begin the application process on the UK government website by creating an account and selecting the BN(O) visa option.
- Upload Documents and Biometrics: Submit scanned copies of supporting documents. You will also need to attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photo.
- Pay the Visa Fees and Health Surcharge:
- Visa Fee: £180 for 2.5 years or £250 for 5 years.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Approximately £624 per year per person, which allows access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
- Receive Decision and Travel: Processing typically takes 8-12 weeks. If approved, you’ll receive a digital visa, allowing entry into the UK.
6. Duration and Extensions for the BN(O) Visa
The BN(O) visa is available for 2.5 or 5 years, depending on the applicant’s preference and situation. At the end of this period, holders can either extend their visa or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
- 2.5-Year Option: Ideal for those who want flexibility. The visa can be renewed and used to meet the five-year residency requirement for ILR.
- 5-Year Option: Applicants who plan to settle long-term may prefer this option to complete the five-year requirement in a single visa period.
Extensions are possible, provided the applicant continues to meet the visa requirements.
7. Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and British Citizenship
The BN(O) visa offers a pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which allows holders to stay in the UK permanently, and eventually, British citizenship.
Pathway to ILR:
- Five Years of Residency: After living in the UK on a BN(O) visa for five years, holders can apply for ILR, which grants permanent residency status.
- Absence Limits: Applicants must not have been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period during the five years.
- Pass the Life in the UK Test: The ILR application requires passing the Life in the UK Test, which covers British culture, history, and laws.
Applying for Citizenship:
After holding ILR for 12 months, BN(O) visa holders may apply for British citizenship, providing full rights to live, work, and travel as a British citizen.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I work in the UK on a BN(O) visa?
Yes, BN(O) visa holders can work in any job or profession in the UK without restrictions.
2. Can I bring my family with me on the BN(O) visa?
Yes, dependents such as spouses, partners, and children can join the main BN(O) visa holder, as long as they apply at the same time or after the primary applicant’s arrival.
3. Do I need to show proof of funds to apply for the BN(O) visa?
Yes, applicants must demonstrate financial stability to support themselves and any family members for the first six months in the UK.
4. How long does it take to process the BN(O) visa?
Processing typically takes 8-12 weeks, but applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance to allow for any potential delays.
5. Can I study in the UK on a BN(O) visa?
Yes, BN(O) visa holders can study in the UK without additional permissions, making it a flexible visa option.
6. What happens if my BN(O) passport has expired?
You can still apply for the BN(O) visa with an expired BN(O) passport, but you’ll need to provide other documentation to prove your BN(O) status.