What You Need to Know
As a leading solicitor firm based in London, we understand that moving to the UK under the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) Visa Route, commonly known as the BN(O) visa, can be both exciting and overwhelming. This immigration route provides a significant opportunity for Hong Kong residents who hold British National (Overseas) status to live, work, and study in the United Kingdom.
At our company, we help clients from Hong Kong and other countries prepare BN(O) visa applications, making sure that each document and need is handled precisely and effectively. The BN(O) isa, the application procedure, and how our London immigration lawyers may assist you in obtaining your visa are all covered in depth below.
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Who Can Apply for the BNO Visa?
To apply for the Hong Kong BNO Visa, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- You must be a British National (Overseas).
- You must usually live in Hong Kong (or be the dependent family member of someone who does).
- You must have adequate financial means to support yourself and your family for at least six months.
- You must have proof of accommodation in the UK.
- You must be able to speak and understand English to a reasonable level.
- You must pass a tuberculosis (TB) test at a Home Office–approved clinic.
- You must not have serious criminal convictions or pose a security risk.
Family members, such as spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, and dependent children under 18, may also apply as dependents of a BNO visa holder.
How to Apply for a BN(O) Visa – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Gather essential documents:
- Valid BN(O) passport or proof of status
- Proof of residence (Hong Kong/UK)
- Financial evidence (bank statements, payslips, etc.)
- TB test certificate (from approved clinic)
- Proof of relationship (if applying with family)
Step 2: Apply Online
Apply via the UK Government’s immigration portal.
Create a UKVI account, complete the BN(O) visa form, and upload your documents.
Step 3: Pay the Fees
- Application fee: £180 (2.5 years) / £250 (5 years)
- IHS: £1,035 per adult/year | £776 per child/year
Step 4: Biometrics Appointment
Some applicants must visit a Visa Application Centre for fingerprints and photos.
If using the UK Immigration: ID Check app, a physical appointment may not be required.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Processing typically takes up to 12 weeks after submission.
Step 6: Travel to the UK
Once approved, travel within your visa validity period and begin your new life in the UK.
Extending the BN(O) Visa and Applying for Settlement
You can apply for an extension of your BN(O) visa after 2.5 years, or you can choose a 5-year visa from the start. After 5 years of continuous residence in the UK, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and after 12 months of ILR, you may apply for British citizenship.
Why Choose Adam Bernard Solicitors?
Adam Bernard Solicitors, one of the top immigration law firms in London, has a wealth of expertise helping BNO passport holders and Hong Kong residents with their UK immigration.
- Personalised legal advice
- Transparent fees and expert service
High success rate in visa and immigration cases
Get Professional Help with Your BNO Visa Application
One of the most crucial choices you’ll make is whether or not to apply for a visa, and doing it correctly the first time will save you money, time, and stress.
Our goal at Adam Bernard Solicitors is to provide you with straightforward, reliable, and expert immigration advice that is specific to your situation.
Get in touch with us right now for a private consultation if you’re thinking about applying for the Hong Kong BNO Visa or want to move your family to the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hong Kong BNO visa?
The Hong Kong BNO (British National Overseas) visa is a UK immigration route that allows BNO status holders and their eligible family members to live, work, and study in the UK, with a pathway to settlement and British citizenship.
Who can apply for the BNO visa?
You can apply if you are a British National (Overseas) status holder or the family member (spouse, partner, or dependent child) of a BNO holder who meets the eligibility and residence requirements.
Do I need a valid BNO passport to apply?
Not necessarily. You do not need a current BNO passport, but you must be able to prove your BNO status — for example, by submitting an expired passport or confirmation from the UK Home Office.
Can I apply for the BNO visa from the UK?
Yes. If you are already in the UK on another valid visa (such as a student visa, skilled worker visa, or visitor visa), you can apply for the BNO route from within the UK, provided you meet the eligibility rules.
Can I apply for the BNO visa from Hong Kong or overseas?
Yes. You can apply for entry clearance from Hong Kong or another country, as long as you are ordinarily resident in Hong Kong at the time of application.
What are the financial requirements for the BNO visa?
You must show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family in the UK for at least six months without claiming public funds. Evidence can include bank statements, payslips, or sponsor letters.
What documents do I need to apply?
You typically need:
- A valid passport or travel document.
- Evidence of BNO status (expired or current passport).
- Proof of residence in Hong Kong or the UK.
- Financial documents showing maintenance funds.
- Marriage or birth certificates for dependants.
How can Adam Bernard Solicitors help me?
Our London-based immigration solicitors provide:
- Eligibility checks to confirm your right to apply.
- Full document preparation and review.
- Professional submission of your BNO visa application.
- Representation and communication with the Home Office.
- Ongoing support for extensions, settlement, and citizenship applications.
We ensure your case is handled efficiently, accurately, and with the highest level of professionalism and confidentiality.
