British National Overseas status

BN(O) status was granted to Hong Kong residents before the handover to China in 1997, allowing holders a form of British nationality but not the right to live in the UK. The British National Overseas BN(O) visa route now provides a pathway for BN(O) citizens to live, work, and study in the UK.

The application fee is £180 for a 2.5-year visa or £250 for a 5-year visa. There is also an Immigration Health Surcharge of £624 per year for adults and £470 per year for children.

Yes, immediate family members (spouse, civil partner, children under 18, and other dependent family members) can apply as dependents.

Valid passport, proof of BN(O) status, evidence of relationship to family members, proof of residence in Hong Kong, financial evidence, and tuberculosis test results (if applicable).

Most applications are processed within 12 weeks (about 3 months).

BN(O) visa holders can apply for access to public funds if they are facing destitution or financial hardship.

The IHS is a fee paid by visa applicants to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). It is £624 per year for adults and £470 per year for children.

BN(O) visa holders can live, work, and study in the UK. They must not engage in activities that threaten national security.

You can apply for ILR after living in the UK for 5 continuous years on a BN(O) visa, subject to meeting residency requirements and passing the Life in the UK Test.

Yes, after holding ILR for one year, BN(O) visa holders can apply for British citizenship.

There is no specific English language requirement for the initial British National Overseas BN(O) visa, but it is required for ILR and British citizenship applications.

Various support services, including legal advice, financial assistance, and community support networks, are available to help BN(O) visa holders settle in the UK.

Only immediate family members are eligible to apply as dependents, though there are provisions for dependent family members in exceptional circumstances.

You can request an administrative review or appeal against the decision if you believe it was made in error.