UK Visas assists those who wish to apply for a BNO Visa UK. The agency offers a range of services to help applicants navigate the complex visa application process, including advice on eligibility criteria, costs, required documents, and extensions. UK Visas also guides accessing public services and making the most of the opportunities available in the UK.
The BNO Visa UK is a unique opportunity for Hong Kong residents who hold BN (O) status to start a new life in the UK. With the help of UK Visas, applicants can ensure that their visa application is processed smoothly and efficiently, allowing them to make the most of this exciting opportunity.
Overview of BNO Visa
The BNO visa is a type of visa that allows British National (Overseas) (BNO) citizens and their dependents to live, work, and study in the UK. It is a new immigration route that was launched by the UK government on 31 January 2021. This visa is designed to provide a path to citizenship for BNO citizens who are concerned about the political situation in Hong Kong.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a BNO visa, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Be a British National (Overseas) citizen or a child of a BNO citizen born after 1 July 1997
- Be 18 years old or older
- Have a valid BNO passport
- Have no serious criminal convictions
- Meet the English language requirement
- Have enough money to support themselves without relying on public funds
Visa Duration and Rights
The BNO visa is valid for up to 5 years. After spending 5 continuous years in the UK, BNO visa holders can apply for settlement, also known as indefinite leave to remain (ILR). Once they have ILR, they can apply for British citizenship.
BNO visa holders have the right to work, study, and access public services in the UK. They can also bring their dependents with them to the UK, including their spouse or partner and their children under the age of 18.
Overall, the BNO visa provides a pathway for BNO citizens to live and work in the UK, and eventually, obtain British citizenship. UK Visas is here to help applicants navigate the application process and ensure that they meet all the eligibility criteria.
Application Process
Required Documents
To apply for a British National (Overseas) (BNO) visa, applicants need to provide certain documents. The following list includes some of the required documents:
- A valid passport or travel document
- A recent passport-sized colour photograph
- Evidence of residential address
- Evidence of financial support
- A tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (if applicable)
- Any other documents required by UK Visas
It is important to note that the above list is not exhaustive, and UK Visas may request additional documents depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant.
Application Steps
To apply for a BNO visa, applicants need to follow these steps:
- Apply online on the UK Visas and Immigration website.
- Pay the application fee.
- Book and attend a biometric appointment at a visa application centre.
- Submit the required documents.
- Wait for a decision on the application.
It is important to note that the processing time for a BNO visa application can vary depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant.
Fees and Costs
The cost of a BNO visa application varies depending on the type of visa and the length of stay in the UK. The following table shows the current fees for a BNO visa application:
In addition to the visa application fee, applicants may also be required to pay additional fees for services such as priority processing, courier services, and SMS updates.
UK Visas recommends that applicants check the current fees and costs on the official UK government website before applying for a BNO visa.
Life in the UK
Moving to the UK with a BNO visa can be an exciting and life-changing experience. Here are some important things to consider when settling into life in the UK.
Accommodation
Finding a suitable place to live is a top priority when moving to the UK. The cost of living in the UK can vary depending on the location, so it's important to research the area and budget accordingly. There are many options for accommodation, including renting a flat or house, sharing a house with others, or staying in a hostel or hotel while looking for more permanent housing.
Employment
Finding employment in the UK can be competitive, but there are many opportunities available. UK Visas recommends that BNO visa holders research the job market and apply for jobs that match their skills and experience. It's also important to have a good understanding of the UK's employment laws and regulations.
Healthcare and Education
BNO visa holders are entitled to use the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. The NHS provides free healthcare to all UK residents, including BNO visa holders. It's important to register with a local GP (General Practitioner) to access healthcare services.
Education is also an important consideration for families moving to the UK. The UK has a wide range of schools, including state-funded schools, private schools, and international schools. It's important to research the different options and find a school that meets the needs of the family.
Overall, moving to the UK with a BNO visa can be a rewarding experience. With careful planning and research, BNO visa holders can settle into life in the UK with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for a BNO visa?
BNO visa is available for Hong Kong residents who are British Nationals (Overseas) and their family members. To be eligible, applicants must have a valid BNO passport, be able to demonstrate their ability to support themselves and any dependents without recourse to public funds and meet the English language requirements.
Can a BNO passport holder renew their passport in the UK?
Yes, BNO passport holders can renew their passports in the UK. They can apply for a new passport at the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London or the British Consulate General in Hong Kong.
What are the current fees associated with the BNO visa?
The current fees for the BNO visa are £180 for a single applicant and £540 for a family of three or more. These fees are subject to change, and applicants should check the UK Visas and Immigration website for the latest information.
How long is a BNO visa holder allowed to remain in the UK?
A BNO visa holder can stay in the UK for up to 5 years. After this period, they can apply for an extension of up to 5 years, or for indefinite leave to remain (ILR).
Is it possible to extend a BNO visa once it expires?
Yes, BNO visa holders can apply to extend their visa before it expires. They must meet the eligibility requirements for the extension, including the financial and English language requirements.
How does one obtain indefinite leave to remain under the BNO visa scheme?
BNO visa holders can apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after they have lived in the UK for 5 years. To be eligible for ILR, they must meet the requirements for the BNO visa extension, including the financial and English language requirements. Once they have ILR, they can apply for British citizenship after they have lived in the UK for a further 12 months.
