The British National (Overseas) — BN(O) — visa lets Hong Kong BN(O) status holders and their families live, work and study in the UK, with a clear path to settlement. This 2026 guide covers who’s eligible (including the latest expansion), what it costs, and how it leads to British citizenship.
Who is eligible?
You can apply if you’re a Hong Kong resident with BN(O) status — you don’t need a current BN(O) passport, just the status. You’ll need to show you can support yourself for the first 6 months and have no serious criminal record. Eligible family members can apply with you.
From 9 February 2026, eligibility expanded so that certain adult children of BN(O) status holders (who were under 18 on 1 July 1997) can apply independently of their parents, along with their own partners and children.
Cost
- £180 — 2.5-year (30-month) visa
- £250 — 5-year visa
- plus the Immigration Health Surcharge at £1,035/year (about £3,105 for 30 months or £5,175 for 5 years)
What you can do
BN(O) visa holders can live, work and study freely in the UK and use the NHS. There’s no job offer, sponsorship or English test required to apply — English and the Life in the UK Test only come in at the settlement stage.
Route to settlement and citizenship
After 5 years of continuous residence you can apply for indefinite leave to remain, and after a further 12 months you can apply for British citizenship. Keep evidence of your time in the UK and watch the absence limits.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for the BN(O) visa?
Hong Kong residents with British National (Overseas) status (a current BN(O) passport isn’t required), plus eligible family. From 9 February 2026, certain adult children of BN(O) holders can also apply independently.
How much does the BN(O) visa cost?
£180 for 30 months or £250 for 5 years, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035/year, about £3,105 for 30 months or £5,175 for 5 years).
Can I work on a BN(O) visa?
Yes — you can live, work and study in the UK and use the NHS.
Does the BN(O) visa lead to settlement?
Yes — ILR after 5 years’ continuous residence, then British citizenship after a further 12 months.
Do I need a job offer or English test to apply?
No — there’s no job offer or English test at the application stage; English and the Life in the UK Test apply at settlement.
Can I bring my family on a BN(O) visa?
Yes — eligible family members can apply with you.
