Visa or Leave to Remain for BNO Passport Holders

The pathway to UK ILR if you come from Hong Kong and were born before 1997

What is the BNO Visa?

The British National (Overseas) Visa, also known as the BNO Visa, allows individuals from Hong Kong who hold BNO status and their eligible family members to live, work, and study in the UK. This visa provides a pathway for Hong Kong citizens to move to the UK for up to five years, with the option to extend or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years of residence.

Dependants, including spouses, partners and children, can also join the main applicant. Once in the UK, visa holders can access education and healthcare, work in most occupations, and have the flexibility to travel in and out of the country.

The BNO visa offers an essential route for those seeking stability and opportunity in the UK. After living for five years on this visa, individuals may apply for settlement (ILR) and eventually British citizenship.

Apply for a BNO Visa

To be eligible for a BNO visa, applicants must:

• Be a British National (Overseas) citizen.
• žNormally reside in Hong Kong or the UK.
• žHave sufficient funds to support themselves and their dependents for at least six months, unless exempt.
• žDemonstrate a commitment to live in the UK for an extended period.

BNO visa applicants will need to meet the following conditions:

• žHave BNO status or be a dependent of a BNO status holder.
• Show evidence of residence in Hong Kong or the UK.
• žProvide proof of financial stability, such as bank statements.
• žSubmit biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph.

Passportia will:

Passportia offers a range of services to support your BNO Visa application process, including:

• Evaluating your eligibility for the BNO Visa, including dependents and financial requirements
• Advising on documentation needed, timelines, and government fees
• žAssisting with the completion and submission of the visa application to the Home Office
• žReviewing all required documents to ensure compliance with immigration rules
• žProviding guidance on the next steps, including preparing for settlement and ILR
• žOffering support in addressing any challenges or issues that may arise during the process

To enquire about quotations - please fill in the form below or call a number on the right. No-win no fee arrangements may be available in certain circumstances. We look forward to hearing from you.