What is the BN(O) visa?

The British National (Overseas) visa is a route for Hong Kong residents who hold BN(O) status or are direct dependants of BN(O) holders. It allows you to live, work, and study in the UK for 5 years and then apply for ILR. It was introduced in January 2021 in response to political changes in Hong Kong.

Do Hong Kong residents need a TB test?

Yes. Hong Kong is on the Home Office list of countries requiring TB screening.

Is Hong Kong a majority English-speaking country?

No. Despite English being one of Hong Kong's official languages, Hong Kong is not on the Home Office list. However, BN(O) visa applicants do not need to pass an English language test. Other routes (Skilled Worker, spouse) do require it.

How much does the BN(O) visa cost?

The BN(O) visa costs £180 for 30 months or £250 for 5 years, plus the IHS of £1,035 per year. This is significantly cheaper than other visa routes.

Moving to the UK from Hong Kong: Guide 2026

Since the introduction of the BN(O) visa in January 2021, tens of thousands of Hong Kong residents have moved to the UK. This route offers an affordable pathway to settlement for BN(O) status holders and their families. This guide covers the BN(O) visa, alternative routes, and practical considerations.

The BN(O) Visa Route

The BN(O) visa is available to Hong Kong residents who hold British National (Overseas) status, and their close family members. Since its launch, over 180,000 applications have been made.

Key features:

You can live, work, and study in the UK without restrictions.
No job offer or sponsor required.
No English language requirement.
You can apply for ILR after 5 years.
Your spouse, partner, children, and other close dependants can apply with you.

Other Visa Routes

Skilled Worker visa. For those without BN(O) status. See the Skilled Worker visa guide.
Student visa. See the student visa guide.
Family visa. See the spouse visa guide.
Graduate route. See the Graduate route guide.

Document Requirements

BN(O) passport or HKSAR passport (plus evidence of BN(O) status for the BN(O) route).
TB test. Required. Get tested at an IOM-approved clinic in Hong Kong.
No English language test for the BN(O) route. Required for Skilled Worker and spouse visa routes.
Criminal record certificate. From the Hong Kong Police Force. Apply through the Police Licensing Office.
Financial evidence. BN(O) applicants must show they can support themselves for at least 6 months.

Costs in Hong Kong Dollars

BN(O) visa (30 months): £180 (approximately HKD 1,800)
BN(O) visa (5 years): £250 (approximately HKD 2,500)
IHS (per year): £1,035 (approximately HKD 10,400)
TB test: approximately HKD 800 to 1,200

The BN(O) visa is exceptionally affordable. A 5-year visa with IHS costs approximately HKD 55,000 total. See our UK visa fees guide.

The Hong Kong Community in the UK

The Hong Kong community has grown rapidly since 2021. New arrivals have settled across the UK, not just in London. Manchester, Birmingham, Reading, Glasgow, and many other cities have significant new Hong Kong communities. Community groups, churches (particularly Cantonese-speaking churches), and social media groups (especially on WhatsApp and Telegram) provide support.

After Arrival

Collect your BRP within 10 days
Apply for a National Insurance number
Register with a GP
Open a UK bank account
Understand your employment rights

Path to Settlement

After 5 years on the BN(O) visa, apply for ILR. After 12 months with ILR, apply for British citizenship.

Next Steps

Check whether you hold BN(O) status. For the BN(O) visa application, visit the GOV.UK BN(O) visa page.