British National ( Overseas) ( BN( O)) Visa UK – Apply with Imran & Co Solicitors

British National ( Overseas) ( BN( O)) Status Route – UK Guide

The BN( O) visa route allows Hong Kong BN( O) citizens and eligible family members to live, work, and study in the UK. This companion provides the rearmost updates, eligibility criteria, operation process, and support services.

Who can apply?

Eligibility:

- BN( O) Citizens Must hold British National (Overseas) status.
- Family Members
- o partner or civil mate
- o Children under 18
- o other dependents in exceptional cases
.

Application Routes:

Leave to Enter Apply from outside the UK
Leave to Remain Apply if formerly in the UK

Visa Duration & Pathway to agreement

original visa 2.5 times( 30 months) or 5 times
Indefinite Leave to Remain ( ILR) Eligible after 5 times

Right to work, study, and access healthcare.
Access to public funds for those in need.

Rights of BN( O) Visa Holders

Live, work, and study in the UK
Access NHS and public finances if demanded
Apply for family reunification under BN( O) dependent rules

Application freights( 2024 Updates)

Visa Type Fee( per person) IHS( per time)

5-Year Visa: £180 per person.
5-Year Visa: £250 per person.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement): £2,885 per person.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year per adult, £470 per year per child.

Processing & Support

- Utmost operations reused within 12 weeks (
3 months)
- Enhanced digital operation system
- Support services legal advice, guidance, backing for vulnerable aspirants

Expanded Support Services:

Increased support for applicants, including legal advice and guidance services.
Special assistance for the vulnerable applicants.

Public Funds Access:

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

FAQs about the British National (Overseas) Status Route

What is the British National (Overseas) (BN(O)) 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.

How much does it cost to apply for a BN(O) visa?

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.

Can family members apply for the BN(O) visa?

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

What documents are needed for the application?

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).

How long does it take to process a BN(O) visa application?

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

Can BN(O) visa holders access public funds?

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

What is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?

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.

What are the conditions of the BN(O) visa?

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

How do I apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the BN(O) route?

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.

Can BN(O) visa holders apply for British citizenship?

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

Do BN(O) visa holders need to meet English language requirements?

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.

What support is available for BN(O) visa holders in the UK?

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

Can BN(O) visa holders bring their extended family members to the UK?

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

What happens if my BN(O) visa application is refused?

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

How Imran & Co Solicitors Can Help

At Imran & Co Solicitors, we provide expert legal guidance and full support throughout your British National (Overseas) – BN(O) visa journey. Our experienced immigration team assists individuals and families from Hong Kong in navigating every stage of the UK immigration process with confidence and clarity.

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