For those who hold British National (Overseas) (BNO) status, the UK offers an opportunity to build a new life through the BNO visa. This visa opens the door for you and your family from Hong Kong to live, work, and thrive in the UK, bringing with it not only the chance to access fantastic career opportunities but also the promise of a stable, fulfilling future.
At The Nathanson Partnership, we understand that moving to a new country is a big decision, and we are here to support you through the entire process. From handling the intricate details of your visa application to guiding you on your route to settlement and eventual British citizenship, our expertise ensures your transition is as smooth and straightforward as possible.
For a personalised consultation and expert guidance, contact us today. You can reach us at 020 3476 9523 or [email protected].
Who Can Apply for the British National (Overseas) Visa?
If you are a British National (Overseas) and are aged 18 or older, you may be eligible to apply for the BNO visa. Additionally, children born after 1st July 1997, to a British National (Overseas) parent can apply separately, ensuring the whole family has a chance to join you in the UK.
If you’re currently living outside of the UK, you may apply for this visa from abroad, though it’s essential to wait for a decision before travelling to the UK. Your permanent home must be located in Hong Kong, or within the UK, Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man if applying while in the UK.
Family reunification is a key part of the BNO visa. As an applicant, you can bring your spouse, partner, children under 18, and certain adult dependent relatives, such as parents. In most cases, your dependants will need to apply alongside you, but there are exceptions for specific family members, especially in cases where dependants are already residing in the UK.
The BNO visa offers flexibility in terms of duration. Applicants can choose to stay for either 2 years and 6 months or 5 years. Should you wish to remain longer, you can apply for an extension while in the UK. After five years of residence, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency, a significant milestone in your journey toward settling in the UK.
To apply for the BNO visa, you’ll need to provide essential documentation, such as proof of your BNO status (such as a BNO passport), evidence of your financial stability, proof of accommodation, and a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate if required. If applying as the adult child of a British National (Overseas), you will need to show evidence of your relationship to your BNO parent, as well as supporting documentation for your home address and financial resources.
What Can You Do As A BNO Visa Holder?
As a holder of the BNO visa, you can live, work, and study in the UK. The visa allows you to pursue a range of professional opportunities, but you will not be able to work as a professional sportsperson or coach. While you are not initially entitled to most public benefits, certain financial circumstances may grant access to limited support, such as housing and essential living costs, if necessary.
After spending five years in the UK under the BNO visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), marking the beginning of your permanent residency in the UK. This status provides you with the freedom to stay without having to renew your visa, access to public benefits in eligible circumstances, and the ability to live without fear of having to leave.
Can I Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain and Settlement?
After five years of continuous residence in the UK, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which allows you to stay in the UK permanently. To qualify, you must meet several requirements, including demonstrating continuous residence and passing the Life in the UK Test and English language proficiency. ILR is a significant milestone on your journey, offering the freedom to stay in the UK indefinitely and opening the door for British citizenship if you wish to go down this route.
For your dependants, including your children and partner, they too can apply for ILR alongside you or independently, depending on their specific situation. Children under 18 who were previously dependants can apply for settlement, as can adult dependants if they were part of your visa application.
Can I Apply for British Citizenship?
Yes, you can apply for British citizenship under the BNO visa. After you’ve lived in the UK for five years on a BNO visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which allows you to stay in the UK permanently. Once you have secured ILR and lived in the UK for an additional 12 months, you become eligible to apply for British citizenship. This final step grants you all the rights of UK nationality, including the ability to apply for a British passport.
Once you’ve obtained ILR, your family members may also apply for British citizenship. For children under 18, if they are born in the UK or brought to the UK with you, they can apply for British citizenship. Your partner and adult dependants can also apply for citizenship through naturalisation one year after you settle in the UK, assuming they meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
Why You Should Choose The Nathanson Partnership
At The Nathanson Partnership, we specialise in guiding BNO visa applicants through the complex UK immigration process. Our team is here to make your visa application as smooth as possible.
Let our team of regulated immigration professionals provide you with the expertise and confidence you need to make a successful application.
For a personalised consultation and expert guidance, contact us today. You can reach us at 020 3476 9523 or [email protected].