The British National (Overseas) visa, more commonly referred to as the BN(O) visa, was introduced by the UK Government in January 2021 in response to changes in Hong Kong’s political and social environment. This immigration route offers BN(O) citizens and their close family members the opportunity to live, work, and study in the UK, with a pathway to settlement and, eventually, British citizenship.
This visa reflects the UK’s historic relationship with Hong Kong, granting eligible individuals enhanced immigration rights that go far beyond those available to most other visa holders. Unlike some UK visa categories, the BN(O) visa does not require sponsorship by an employer or educational institution, making it an accessible route for those who meet the status and residency criteria.
What this article is about
This article provides a detailed legal and practical guide to the BN(O) visa under UK immigration law. It explains eligibility requirements, the application process, visa costs, and the rights and conditions attached to the route. It also outlines the settlement pathway and how BN(O) visa holders can progress towards British citizenship. The guide is designed to assist both individuals considering an application and those already holding BN(O) status who are planning their move to the UK. It is written in an authoritative, UK legal context, reflecting the Immigration Rules and Home Office policy as they stand in 2025.
Section A: Eligibility for the BN(O) Visa
The eligibility rules for the BN(O) visa are set out in the UK Immigration Rules, Appendix BN(O). The core requirement is that the main applicant must have British National (Overseas) status, a type of British nationality created in 1987 for Hong Kong residents prior to the 1997 handover to China. BN(O) status cannot be newly acquired, but it is retained for life once held, even if the passport has expired or the holder has since acquired another nationality.
The Home Office allows for both BN(O) status holders and their close family members to apply. All applicants must also meet suitability and residence requirements, and provide sufficient evidence to prove eligibility.
1. BN(O) Status Requirement
To qualify as the main applicant, you must:
- Hold BN(O) status (proof can be an expired BN(O) passport or an official confirmation from HM Passport Office).
- Apply either from within the UK or overseas.
A current BN(O) passport is not mandatory but is strongly recommended for ease of identification.
2. Eligible Family Members and Dependants
Close family members of a BN(O) status holder can apply as dependants. The rules allow:
- Spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner (must have lived together for at least 2 years).
- Children under 18.
- Adult children (born on or after 1 July 1997) and their dependent partner or child.
- In exceptional cases, other family members with a high level of dependency (strong evidence required).
All family members should normally apply at the same time as the BN(O) status holder. Later applications are permitted if they still form part of the same household and meet the eligibility rules.
3. Residence Requirement
Applicants must be ordinarily resident in:
- Hong Kong (including those currently in the UK but usually living in Hong Kong), or
- The UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or a British Overseas Territory, if already lawfully present.
Evidence such as utility bills, tenancy agreements, or official letters is required.
4. Suitability and Criminality Checks
The Home Office will refuse applications if the applicant:
- Has been convicted of a serious criminal offence with a custodial sentence of 12 months or more.
- Has breached immigration laws, provided false information, or engaged in conduct contrary to the public good.
Applicants must disclose any criminal convictions, even those considered “spent” under UK law.
5. Documentation to Prove Status and Identity
Documents typically include:
- Current passport or travel document.
- Expired BN(O) passport or HM Passport Office status confirmation.
- Proof of residence in Hong Kong or the UK.
- Relationship evidence for dependants.
All non-English documents must be submitted with certified translations.
Section Summary
To be eligible, the main applicant must hold BN(O) status, meet residence requirements, and satisfy suitability checks. Eligible family members can join if they form part of the same household. Evidence of BN(O) status, identity, and residence is mandatory.
Section B: Application Process
The BN(O) visa application process is primarily online, with identity verification completed digitally or in person depending on your passport type. The route is open to applicants both outside and inside the UK, provided they meet the eligibility requirements and apply before any existing UK visa expires.
1. Where to Apply
Applications can be made:
- From outside the UK – primarily from Hong Kong, but also from other locations if eligible.
- From inside the UK – if lawfully present on another visa. BN(O) visa applications cannot be made if you are in the UK unlawfully, on immigration bail, or on certain short-term visas that do not permit switching.
If applying in the UK, you must submit your BN(O) application before your current permission expires.
2. Online Application Process
The application is completed via the official GOV.UK portal. Steps include:
- Completing the BN(O) application form.
- Paying the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) in full.
- Uploading documents via the UK Immigration: ID Check app or the online document submission system.
- Completing identity verification either via the ID Check app or in person at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or UKVCAS service point.
3. Biometric Enrolment and Identity Verification
- Using the UK Immigration: ID Check app – available for applicants with a biometric passport (BN(O), HKSAR, or other eligible passports).
- In-person biometric appointment – required if you cannot use the app. This involves fingerprints, a digital photograph, and signing an electronic declaration.
Applicants must not travel outside their country of application until they receive a decision, unless explicitly permitted.
4. Supporting Documents
Evidence requirements include:
- BN(O) passport (current or expired) or official BN(O) status confirmation.
- Current passport or travel document.
- Proof of residence in Hong Kong or the UK (utility bills, tax records, tenancy agreements).
- Relationship evidence for dependants (marriage or birth certificates, cohabitation evidence).
- Financial evidence if requested (bank statements, payslips, proof of third-party support).
Any non-English documents must be accompanied by certified translations that meet Home Office standards.
5. Processing Times and Priority Services
- Outside the UK: Around 12 weeks from biometrics or identity verification.
- Inside the UK: Around 8 weeks from biometrics or ID app submission.
Some locations offer priority (5 working days) or super-priority (next working day) processing for an additional fee. Availability depends on local visa centre capacity.
Section Summary
The BN(O) visa process is mostly digital, with the UK Immigration: ID Check app removing the need for in-person appointments for many applicants. Ensuring all evidence meets Home Office requirements and applying before any current UK permission expires is essential. Processing times vary, and priority services can be used where available.
Section C: Costs and Financial Requirements
Applying for a BN(O) visa involves paying government fees and, in some cases, providing evidence of financial stability. While there is no fixed minimum income threshold like in the Skilled Worker or Family routes, the Home Office can request proof that you can support yourself and your dependants in the UK without accessing public funds.
1. Visa Application Fees
As of 2025, the Home Office charges:
- £180 per person for a 2.5-year BN(O) visa.
- £250 per person for a 5-year BN(O) visa.
Both routes offer the same conditions and rights. The 5-year option is usually more cost-effective over time and allows applicants to meet the 5-year settlement requirement without renewing.
2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The IHS must be paid in full when applying. As of February 2025, the IHS rates are:
- £1,035 per adult per year
- £776 per child under 18 per year
Example:
- A single adult applying for a 5-year BN(O) visa will pay £5,175 in IHS.
- A child applying for a 5-year BN(O) visa will pay £3,880 in IHS.
The IHS gives BN(O) visa holders access to NHS healthcare on the same basis as UK residents for the duration of their visa.
3. Maintenance and Financial Requirements
There is no set savings or income requirement for most BN(O) applicants. However, if requested by the Home Office, you must show you can cover at least 6 months’ living costs in the UK without public funds. Examples of acceptable evidence include:
- Bank statements showing savings.
- Proof of regular income from employment or self-employment.
- A signed letter and bank statements from a third party providing ongoing support (must be genuine and verifiable).
If you have been living in the UK for more than 12 months when you apply, you will not normally be asked to provide financial evidence.
4. Additional Costs
Applicants should also budget for:
- Document translation and certification costs for non-English documents.
- Visa application centre or UKVCAS appointment fees (where applicable).
- Travel and relocation expenses, including housing deposits and initial living costs.
- School fees or childcare, if applicable.
Section Summary
The BN(O) visa’s main costs are the application fee and the IHS. The financial requirement is flexible, but you should be ready to evidence funds if requested. Choosing the 5-year route often makes sense for those planning long-term settlement, as it avoids the cost and administrative burden of a mid-route renewal.
Section D: Rights, Conditions, and Pathway to Settlement
The BN(O) visa grants substantial rights to live, work, and study in the UK, alongside a direct route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and, ultimately, British citizenship. These benefits are subject to compliance with specific visa conditions and residence rules.
1. Work and Study Rights in the UK
BN(O) visa holders may work in any role, including self-employment and voluntary work, without requiring a work sponsor. They may also study at any level without additional permission. The principal restriction is that holders cannot work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach unless specifically authorised.
2. Access to NHS and Public Services
By paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), BN(O) visa holders can access NHS healthcare on the same terms as UK residents. Children can access UK state education, and visa holders can use other public services such as the police and fire service.
3. No Recourse to Public Funds
BN(O) visa holders are subject to the immigration condition “no recourse to public funds,” meaning they cannot claim most benefits or social housing. In cases of destitution, very low income, or essential support needs relating to a child’s welfare, applicants may apply to the Home Office to lift this restriction; strong evidence is required and grants are discretionary.
4. Extension Applications and Switching to Other Routes
- 2.5-year visa holders must extend before expiry to continue their stay and to qualify for ILR via the 5-year residence route.
- 5-year visa holders can proceed directly to ILR at the end of their initial grant, provided they meet all requirements.
Applicants may switch to another immigration category if eligible, but doing so will normally restart the ILR qualifying period under the new route.
5. Settlement (ILR) and British Citizenship
- ILR eligibility: After 5 continuous years of lawful residence in the UK on BN(O) permission (or a combination of BN(O) and other eligible categories), provided you have not been absent for more than 180 days in any rolling 12‑month period during the qualifying period, and you meet the Knowledge of Life in the UK and English language requirements (unless exempt).
- Citizenship: After holding ILR for 12 months, you may apply for British citizenship if you meet nationality law requirements. If married to a British citizen, you may apply immediately after ILR without the 12‑month wait, subject to meeting residence and good character rules.
Section Summary
The BN(O) visa offers broad work and study rights and a clear settlement pathway. Compliance with the “no recourse to public funds” condition, maintaining continuous lawful residence, and meeting ILR knowledge and language requirements are critical to progressing to permanent status and citizenship.
FAQs
Can I apply without a current BN(O) passport?
Yes. You can apply using an expired BN(O) passport or by obtaining written confirmation of BN(O) status from HM Passport Office. A current BN(O) passport is recommended but not mandatory.
Can dependants join later?
Yes, provided they still form part of the same household and meet the eligibility rules in Appendix BN(O). They must provide strong evidence of the relationship and household membership.
Do I need to speak English to apply?
No. There is no English language requirement for the BN(O) visa. However, you will need to meet the English language requirement if you later apply for ILR or British citizenship, unless exempt.
Can I travel freely in and out of the UK on this visa?
Yes, but if you are planning to apply for ILR you must ensure you do not exceed 180 days’ absence in any rolling 12-month period during your qualifying residence.
How long does it take to get ILR after a BN(O) visa?
You can apply for ILR after 5 continuous years in the UK, provided you meet all residence and eligibility requirements.
Conclusion
The BN(O) visa provides a generous and flexible route for Hong Kong BN(O) status holders and their eligible family members to build a long-term future in the UK. It allows applicants to live, work, and study without sponsorship, while offering a clear settlement pathway to British citizenship.
Success depends on meeting eligibility rules, providing strong supporting evidence, and maintaining compliance with visa conditions, particularly the continuous residence requirement for ILR. Choosing the right visa length at the outset and budgeting for the associated costs can make the process smoother.
For those intending to settle permanently, careful planning of travel, finances, and application timing will help ensure a successful outcome.
Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| BN(O) status | A form of British nationality created in 1987 for certain Hong Kong residents before the 1997 handover, retained for life once acquired. |
| Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) | UK immigration status granting permanent residence with no time restrictions. |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | A fee paid to access NHS healthcare during your stay in the UK. |
| Dependants | Family members eligible to join or accompany a main BN(O) applicant, including partners, children, and certain dependent relatives. |
Useful Links
| Resource | URL |
|---|---|
| GOV.UK: British National (Overseas) visa guidance | https://www.gov.uk/british-national-overseas-bno-visa |
| GOV.UK: BN(O) status information | https://www.gov.uk/types-of-british-nationality/british-national-overseas |
| GOV.UK: Apply for a BN(O) visa | https://www.gov.uk/british-national-overseas-bno-visa/apply |
| DavidsonMorris: BN(O) visa guide | https://www.davidsonmorris.com/bno-visa/ |
