Are you considering a move from Hong Kong to the UK but feeling overwhelmed by the visa process? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will break down everything you need to know about the BNO 5+1 Visa, making your transition smoother and stress-free. From eligibility requirements to application procedures, we've got you covered every step of the way. Say goodbye to confusion and hello to your new life in the UK!
Introduction to the BNO 5+1 Visa The BNO 5+1 Visa is a new immigration route introduced by the UK government for British National (Overseas) citizens and their close family members. This visa provides an opportunity for eligible individuals from Hong Kong to live, work, and study in the UK with a path to settlement and citizenship. History of the BNO 5+1 Visa In July 2020, the UK government announced that it would offer a new visa option for Hong Kong residents holding British National (Overseas) passports. This decision came after China imposed a controversial national security law on Hong Kong, leading to concerns about human rights violations and diminishing freedoms in the region. The BNO status was created in 1987 when Britain agreed to grant citizenship to eligible Hong Kong residents who were born before the handover of sovereignty back to China in 1997. However, this citizenship did not come with any right to live or work in the UK. Eligibility Criteria for BNO 5+1 Visa To be eligible for this visa, applicants must hold a valid British National (Overseas) passport issued before July 1st, 1997. They must also have ordinarily resided in Hong Kong continuously for at least seven years before applying. Applicants must also meet other requirements such as being able to support themselves financially without relying on public funds and having no serious criminal record. Close family members, including spouses/partners and dependent children under the age of 18 can apply alongside the main applicant. Benefits of BNO 5+1 Visa The most significant benefit of this visa is that it provides a pathway towards settlement and ultimately citizenship in the UK. After five years of continuous residence through this visa route, individuals will be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), allowing them to settle permanently in the UK. After a further year, they can then apply for British citizenship. The visa also allows individuals to live, work and study in the UK without any restrictions. This opens up many opportunities for career advancement and personal growth, making it an attractive option for those looking to relocate from Hong Kong. Conclusion The BNO 5+1 Visa is a welcome opportunity for eligible individuals from Hong Kong to move to the UK with their families. It offers a path towards settlement and citizenship, along with the freedom to live and work in the country without any restrictions. In the next section of this article, we will discuss the application process and requirements in detail.
1. What is the BNO Passport? The British National Overseas (BNO) passport is a travel document issued by the United Kingdom to eligible individuals who were born in Hong Kong before the handover to China in 1997. It was created as part of the British government's commitment to protect the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong residents after the transfer of sovereignty. The BNO passport allows its holders to visit and stay in the UK for up to six months at a time without a visa. It also grants them access to consular assistance from British embassies and high commissions around the world, as well as certain privileges when traveling to other countries. To be eligible for a BNO passport, an individual must have been born in Hong Kong before July 1st, 1997, and hold either a valid Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passport or Identification Card with "British National Overseas" stated as their nationality. Applicants must also not be citizens of any other country outside of China and its territories. It's important to note that while BNO status does not grant full citizenship or right of abode in the UK, it does provide some key benefits for those who wish to move from Hong Kong to live, work or study there. These include eligibility for settlement after five years of continuous residence in the UK and eventual naturalization as a British citizen after six years. In January 2021, following Beijing's controversial implementation of a new national security law in Hong Kong, the British government announced that it would extend further rights and protections for BNO passport holders. This includes granting them permission to live and work in the UK for up to five years under a new visa scheme called "Hong Kong BN(O)". This updated policy offers an opportunity for eligible individuals who hold BNO passports but do not qualify for citizenship through descent or marriage routes, including their dependents under 18 years old, to seek a new life in the UK. The visa will also be extendable and lead to settlement after five years. The BNO passport is an important document for those who hold it, as it not only provides travel privileges but also acts as a pathway to eventual citizenship in the UK. With recent developments opening up new opportunities for BNO holders, it has become a crucial aspect to consider for individuals who are planning on moving from Hong Kong to the UK.
Eligibility Criteria for the BNO 5+1 Visa: The BNO 5+1 visa is a new immigration route introduced by the UK government for British National (Overseas) citizens and their immediate family members who hold a valid BNO passport. This visa allows them to live, work, or study in the UK for an initial period of five years, after which they can apply for settlement and eventually citizenship. To be eligible for the BNO 5+1 visa, applicants must meet certain criteria set by the UK government. These eligibility requirements are as follows: 1. Hold a Valid BNO Passport: The first and most important requirement is that applicants must hold a valid British National (Overseas) passport at the time of application. This passport must have been issued either before or on September 30th, 1997. 2. Be a Resident of Hong Kong: Applicants must also be residents of Hong Kong with a permanent residence status at the time of application. They should not have any criminal record or pose any security threat to the UK. 3. Show Proof of Identity and Relationship: Applicants must provide evidence to prove their identity as well as their relationship with their accompanying family members (spouse/partner and children under 18). This could include birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc. 4. Meet Financial Requirements: To qualify for the BNO 5+1 visa, applicants need to show that they can support themselves financially without relying on public funds in the UK. They will need to demonstrate an income level that meets or exceeds £18,600 per year if they are coming alone or higher if accompanied by family members. 5. Have Good Character: Applicants must also pass character checks conducted by relevant authorities in both Hong Kong and the UK. Any criminal record or previous immigration violations may affect an applicant's eligibility for this visa. 6.Vaccinations: All applicants will need to provide proof of having received any required vaccinations, including the COVID-19 vaccine, before traveling to the UK. 7. English Language Requirement: Applicants will also need to demonstrate their proficiency in the English language by taking an approved English language test or showing evidence that they have completed a degree or qualification taught in English. The BNO 5+1 visa is a great opportunity for British National (Overseas) citizens and their families to relocate to the UK. By meeting these eligibility criteria, applicants can start their journey towards making the UK their new home.
The BNO 5+1 Visa offers numerous benefits for those looking to move from Hong Kong to the UK. This visa was recently introduced in response to China's implementation of a new national security law in Hong Kong, which has caused many residents to seek opportunities abroad. Here are some of the key benefits that come with the BNO 5+1 Visa: 1. Right to live and work in the UK One of the main benefits of this visa is that it allows BNO passport holders and their dependents (spouse and children under 18) to live and work in the UK for an initial period of five years. This can be extended for another five years, after which applicants may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. 2. Access to public services With the BNO 5+1 Visa, individuals will have access to public services such as healthcare, education, and social welfare schemes in the UK. This provides peace of mind and ensures that BNO passport holders can settle into their new life without worrying about these basic necessities. 3. Pathway to citizenship After residing in the UK for five years on this visa, individuals may be eligible to apply for British citizenship. This would give them all the rights and privileges that come with being a British citizen, including right to vote and travel freely within Europe. 4. No minimum income requirements Unlike other visas offered by countries like Australia or Canada, there is no minimum income requirement for obtaining a BNO 5+1 Visa. However, applicants must demonstrate that they can support themselves financially during their stay in the UK. 5. Relatively easy application process Compared to other visas, applying for a BNO 5+1 Visa is relatively straightforward and does not require extensive documentation or proof of language proficiency. 6. Flexibility The BNO 5+1 Visa also offers flexibility as it allows individuals to switch between visa categories, for example from work to study or vice versa. This gives BNO passport holders the opportunity to explore different options and make the most of their time in the UK. The BNO 5+1 Visa offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for those looking to move from Hong Kong to the UK. From ease of application to access to public services and a pathway to citizenship, this visa provides a solid foundation for individuals and families seeking a better future in the UK.
If you are a British National (Overseas) (BNO) passport holder and considering moving from Hong Kong to the UK, then the BNO 5+1 Visa is an option that should be on your radar. This visa allows BNO passport holders to live, work, and study in the UK for up to 5 years with the option of applying for settlement after this period. In this section, we will guide you through the process of applying for the BNO 5+1 Visa. Step 1: Check Your Eligibility Before beginning your application, it is important to make sure that you meet all the eligibility requirements. To be eligible for the BNO 5+1 Visa, you must: - Be a British National (Overseas) passport holder - Have been born before July 1st, 1997 or have at least one parent who was born before this date - Reside in Hong Kong or have strong ties to Hong Kong - Fulfill English language requirements - Have sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents during your stay in the UK If you meet all these criteria, then you can move on to the next step. Step 2: Gather Required Documents The next step is to gather all necessary documents for your application. These include: - A valid BNO Passport - Proof of financial stability such as bank statements or pay slips - Evidence of English language proficiency - TB test results if applicable - Any other supporting documents that may strengthen your application It is important to note that all documents must be in English or translated by a certified translator. Step 3: Submit Online Application To apply for the BNO 5+1 Visa, you will need to submit an online application form on the UK government's website. You will be asked questions about personal details, immigration history, and reasons for wanting to move to the UK. Make sure to answer all questions accurately and provide all necessary information. Step 4: Pay Fees You will be required to pay a fee for your visa application as well as an Immigration Health Surcharge. The current fee for the BNO 5+1 Visa is £250 and the Immigration Health Surcharge is £624 per year of stay. Step 5: Attend Biometrics Appointment After submitting your online application, you will need to book an appointment at a designated visa application center in Hong Kong to submit your biometric information (fingerprints and photo). Step 6: Await Decision Once you have completed all steps and submitted your application, it may take several weeks for a decision to be made. You can track the status of your application online. If your application is successful, you will receive a visa vignette in your passport which will allow you to enter the UK. It is important to note that this visa does not automatically grant settlement after five years and you will need to apply separately for this if desired. Applying for
1. Moving to the UK with Your BNO Passport: Step-by-Step Guide The British National Overseas (BNO) passport is a travel document issued to British nationals who were born in Hong Kong or have acquired Hong Kong permanent residency before the handover of sovereignty from Britain to China in 1997. This passport allows holders to visit, live, and work in the UK for up to six months at a time without a visa. However, with recent changes in UK immigration policies, BNO passport holders are now eligible for a new pathway that grants them a right to live and work permanently in the country. If you are considering moving from Hong Kong to the UK with your BNO passport, here is a step-by-step guide on what you need to do: 1. Determine your eligibility: To be eligible for this pathway, you must hold a valid BNO passport and be ordinarily resident in Hong Kong or any other country outside of the UK. 2. Apply for pre-arrival registration: Before making any travel plans, it is essential first to apply for pre-arrival registration through the online portal provided by the government of Hong Kong. This process will determine your eligibility and generate an electronic notification letter that will serve as evidence during visa application. 3. Gather required documents: Next, gather all necessary documents required for your visa application, including proof of identity (BNO passport), proof of residence (utility bills or bank statements), proof of relationship (marriage certificate if applicable), and proof of English language proficiency (if non-native speaker). 4. Submit visa application: Once you have gathered all required documents, it's time to submit your visa application online or via mail at one of the designated centers. 5. Book biometric appointment: After submitting your visa application form and paying the fee, book an appointment at one of the specified locations where your photo and fingerprints will be taken as part of biometric data collection. 6. Wait for the decision: The processing time for BNO visa applications can vary, but it typically takes around three to four weeks from the biometric appointment date. Once your application is approved, you will receive a vignette in your passport that allows you to travel to the UK. 7. Arrive in the UK and apply for settlement: Upon arriving in the UK, you must apply for settlement within 90 days of entry. This process will grant you permanent residence status and allow you to live and work indefinitely in the country. Obtaining a BNO visa is an excellent opportunity for Hong Kong residents looking to move to the UK permanently. By following these steps, you can successfully navigate through the application process and start your new life in this beautiful country.
Moving to a new country can be an exciting and daunting experience, especially if you are unfamiliar with the immigration process. If you are considering moving from Hong Kong to the UK with a BNO 5+1 visa, there are some important things that you need to know before making the big move. This visa was recently introduced by the UK government as a pathway for British National Overseas (BNO) citizens and their dependents to relocate to the UK. First and foremost, it is crucial to understand the eligibility criteria for this visa. To be eligible, individuals must hold BNO status, which means they were born in Hong Kong or granted citizenship before July 1st, 1997. Additionally, applicants must also have a current valid passport and not hold any other type of British nationality or citizenship. Another important consideration is the application process itself. The application for a BNO 5+1 visa can be completed online through the UK government's official website. It is recommended to start this process well in advance as it may take several months for your application to be processed and approved. One of the key benefits of this visa is that it allows successful applicants to live, work and study in the UK for up to five years with their dependents. After five years of continuous residence in the UK, individuals will become eligible for permanent residency and then apply for British citizenship after a further year. It is also essential to understand your rights and entitlements under this visa category. As a BNO citizen living in the UK on this visa, you will have access to public services such as healthcare and education like any other resident of the country. However, unlike other visas, BNO 5+1 does not grant automatic permission to work; therefore individuals will need to apply separately for employment authorization. In terms of financial requirements, applicants must demonstrate that they can support themselves financially during their time in the UK without relying on public funds. This includes having enough funds to cover accommodation, food, and daily expenses. Furthermore, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the cultural and lifestyle differences between Hong Kong and the UK. The climate, culture, and social norms may differ significantly from what you are used to in Hong Kong. It is advisable to do some research beforehand to help you adjust more smoothly when you arrive in the UK. Moving to the UK with a BNO 5+1 visa can be an excellent opportunity for eligible individuals and their families. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, entitlements, financial requirements, and cultural differences beforehand; you can make a more informed decision about whether this is the right move for you.
1. Comparison Moving from Hong Kong to the UK can be an overwhelming process, especially when it comes to understanding the different visa options available. One of the most popular routes for Hong Kong residents is the British National Overseas (BNO) visa, which was recently introduced by the UK government in response to China's new national security law. In this section, we will compare the BNO visa with other common visas for moving from Hong Kong to the UK, providing you with a comprehensive overview of each option and its requirements. 1. Work Visas If you are planning on working in the UK, there are several work visas that you may be eligible for based on your skills and qualifications. These include the Skilled Worker Visa, Intra-Company Transfer Visa, and Youth Mobility Scheme Visa. The BNO visa differs from these work visas as it does not require appli
