Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa
For BN(O) status holders from Hong Kong and their family members who want to live, work and study in the UK.
The Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa is a UK humanitarian & refugee visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~£193 (30 months) / £268 (5 years); IHS ~£1,035/year) and processing time (~12 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa is for
For BN(O) status holders from Hong Kong and their family members who want to live, work and study in the UK.
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years, then citizenship after a further year.
Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa - eligibility criteria
- British National (Overseas) status holder, or eligible family member
- Normally resident in Hong Kong, the UK, or Channel Islands
- Able to support and accommodate yourself for 6 months
- Hold a valid TB test certificate where required
- Eligible adult dependants and children can be included
Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa (United Kingdom) is ~£193 (30 months) / £268 (5 years); IHS ~£1,035/year, with an indicative processing time of ~12 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at GOV.UK.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside or inside the UK |
| Length of stay | 2.5 or 5 years, renewable |
| Work rights | Work freely in almost any role, no sponsor needed |
| Study rights | Study freely |
| Government fee | ~£193 (30 months) / £268 (5 years); IHS ~£1,035/year |
| Processing time | ~12 weeks |
| Route to PR | Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years, then citizenship after a further year. |
Pathway & next steps
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years, then citizenship after a further year.
Many applicants also compare ILR · Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement), Citizenship · Naturalisation as a British citizen. Run a free VisaChief check to see which UK route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa pitfalls we fix
Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa cost?
The Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa government fee is ~£193 (30 months) / £268 (5 years); IHS ~£1,035/year. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at GOV.UK before applying.
How long does the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~12 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa lead to permanent residence?
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years, then citizenship after a further year.
Can I work on the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa?
Work rights: Work freely in almost any role, no sponsor needed.
Who can apply for the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa?
For BN(O) status holders from Hong Kong and their family members who want to live, work and study in the UK.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United Kingdom government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- GOV.UK - official United Kingdom immigration authority