British National (Overseas) Visa Guide

The British National (Overseas) or BNO immigration route opened on January 31, 2021. Here, we explain the BNO visa scheme rules and recent updates.

Overview

The scheme offers two routes:

1. BNO Status Holder Route

2. BNO Household Member Route

BNO Status Holder Route

This is for BNO citizens living in Hong Kong or the UK. Dependents like partners and children can also apply. In special cases, other family members who heavily depend on the BNO citizen can apply.

BNO Household Member Route

This is for adult children (born on or after July 1, 1997) of BNO citizens. The applicant and any dependents must live with the BNO citizen.

Both routes lead to settlement after five years. Applicants can choose a 2.5-year visa or a five-year visa.

Eligibility

Main Applicants

• Must be a BNO citizen under the Hong Kong (British Nationality) Order 1986.

• This excludes most people born after July 1, 1997.

Family Members

1. Dependent Partner: Spouses or partners must have been in a relationship for at least two years.

2. BNO Household Child: Minor children or grandchildren of BNO citizens. Grandchildren must live with the main applicant.

3. BNO Adult Dependent Relative: Parents, grandparents, siblings, or children who need long-term care. They must show they can’t get necessary care in Hong Kong.

BNO Household Member Route

For children of BNO Status Holders over 18 and born on or after July 1, 1997. They must live with the BNO citizen. They can bring their own dependent partners and children under 18.

Residence Requirement

Applicants must be “ordinarily resident” in Hong Kong or the UK. This means living there regularly, even if temporarily absent. Acceptable proof includes ID cards, bank statements, employment letters, and other official documents.

Financial Requirement

Applicants must show they can support themselves without public funds for at least six months. Proof of funds is required if they’ve been in the UK for less than 12 months.

Language and Health Requirements

• English: No requirement for the initial visa. For settlement, applicants need to pass an English test and a Life in the UK test.

• Tuberculosis Test: Required for applicants from Hong Kong.

Suitability

Applicants must not have a criminal record or have breached immigration laws.

Visa Conditions

• Duration: 2.5 or 5 years.

• Work and Study: Allowed, except for professional sports or coaching.

• Public Funds: No access allowed, except in cases of destitution.

Application Process

• Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app or apply online.

• Provide biometrics.

• Application fees are £180 for 2.5 years and £250 for 5 years, plus the immigration health surcharge (£1,035 per year for adults, £776 for children).

Conclusion

The BNO visa route is designed to support BNO citizens and their families in moving to the UK. It offers a clear path to settlement, with reasonable financial and residency requirements.