The British National (Overseas) Citizens (BNO) path is going to be available from January 2021 and, if approved, applicants can enter the UK with their family. Applications can be submitted from anywhere, not just inside the UK. The permit allows British Citizens Overseas, including Hong Kong nationals, to enter or remain in the UK for 30 months. The BNO Visa can be extended up to 5 years. After 5 years, successful applicants will be able to apply for settlement and, 12 months from that, to become UK citizens.
Who is eligible for a Hong Kong BNO Visa?
All British Nationals Overseas can apply for this permit including Hong Kong nationals. Applications open in January 2021. To submit a request, you will not need a BN(O) passport. However, if you hold one (even if expired) you can submit it with your supporting documents. All applicants need a valid travel document. Hong Kong nationals can use their Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport.
Applying and travelling with family members
You can include in your application family members who already live with you. This includes:
- Adult children born after 1st July 1997 (and their spouses and children under of 18)
- Children under 18
- civil partner
- Other family members in certain exceptional circumstances
- Spouse
- unmarried partner
You and your family must apply together. If you do not name them in your application, they will not be allowed to join you in the UK afterwards.
BNO Visa financial requirements
To be eligible for the new visa you must demonstrate you can accommodate and provide financial support for yourself and your family for a minimum of 6 months in the UK. As evidence, you must provide:
- Bank statements
- Written statements of offers for financial support or accommodation from friends and family
If the application documents are not in English then they must be accompanied by a certified translation.
Scarsdale Immigration Solicitors
For advice from Immigration solicitors Manchester, immigration solicitors Rochdale and immigration solicitors Oldham call Scarsdale Oldham Solicitors, Scarsdale Manchester Solicitors and Scarsdale Rochdale Solicitors on 0161 660 6050.
