British Nationality: British Overseas Territories

(asked on 3rd November 2020) - View Source

Question to the Home Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Williams of Trafford on 13 August (HL7533), whether Hong Kong citizens who do not hold British National (Overseas) status are able to apply to enter the UK under the British National (Overseas) visa scheme rules; and if so, what the process is for doing so.


Answered by
Baroness Williams of Trafford Portrait
Baroness Williams of Trafford
Captain of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen-at-Arms (HM Household) (Chief Whip, House of Lords)
This question was answered on 17th November 2020

The bespoke new Hong Kong British National (Overseas) Visa route recognises our historic and moral commitment to British National (Overseas) citizens in Hong Kong, giving them the option to live in the UK if they decide that is an appropriate choice for them. Hong Kong citizens who do not hold BN(O) status or are not the close family member of a BN(O) will not be eligible to apply for the Hong Kong BN(O) Visa route.

Consistent with the wider Immigration Rules, individuals in Hong Kong will be able to apply under the new Points-Based System to come to live, work or study in the UK, provided they meet the necessary requirements. Those wishing to come to the UK under the new Points-Based-System will need to apply for a visa in advance of travel.

The existing youth mobility scheme is also open to people in Hong Kong aged between 18-30, with 1000 places currently available each year.

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