How to apply BNO in Hong Kong - Are you looking to apply for a BNO visa in Hong Kong? The process might seem daunting, but with the right guidance, you can navigate it successfully. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to apply for a BNO in Hong Kong, helping you understand the requirements and streamline your application process.
In this article, you'll learn about BNO visa eligibility and how to prepare your application. We'll also break down the application process into manageable steps, covering everything from gathering documents to submitting your BNO application in Hong Kong.
Understanding BNO Visa Eligibility
To apply for a BNO visa in Hong Kong, you need to meet specific criteria. You're eligible if you're 18 years or older and either a British national (overseas) or a child of a British national (overseas) born on or after July 1, 1997.
This date is crucial because adult children born after this can now apply independently, thanks to rule changes introduced in February 2022.
Key requirements
When applying for a BNO visa, you must be ordinarily resident in Hong Kong if applying from outside the UK. You can also apply from the UK if your permanent home is in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or Hong Kong.
There's no English language requirement for the visa, but you'll need good English skills if you plan to settle in the UK later.
To be eligible, you must have no serious criminal convictions and not have engaged in behavior the UK Government deems not conducive to the public good.
You'll also need to prove you can support yourself and your dependants financially for at least six months without relying on public funds.
Family member eligibility
The BNO visa is open to eligible family members of British National (Overseas) citizens. This includes your spouse or civil partner (18 years or older), children or grandchildren under 18, and children 18 or older born on or after July 1, 1997 (including their partners or children under 18).
Parents, grandparents, siblings, or adult children (18 or older) can also apply if they live with you and are highly dependent on your care.
Preparing Your BNO Visa Application
To apply for a BNO visa in Hong Kong, you need to gather all the necessary documents and meet specific requirements. Here's what you need to know:
Required documents
When preparing your BNO visa application, you'll need to provide several key documents. These include your most recent BNO passport or a letter from Her Majesty's Passport Office confirming your status if you don't have a current or expired BNO passport.
You'll also need to submit a color photocopy of both sides of your Hong Kong permanent identity card and full-color photocopies of any other valid passports you hold.
Additionally, you'll need to provide proof of your residence in Hong Kong, such as recent utility bills, bank statements, or tenancy agreements.
If you're applying with dependents, you'll need to include documents that verify your relationship with them, such as marriage certificates or birth certificates.
Financial requirements
One crucial aspect of your BNO visa application is demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependents in the UK for at least six months.
This can be challenging, especially if you don't have a stable income or substantial savings. You'll need to provide evidence such as bank statements, employment letters, or other documents that show your financial stability.
Proving your BNO status
If you're a British national (overseas), you can use your current or expired BNO passport to prove your status when you apply for a BNO visa in Hong Kong. If you no longer have a BNO passport, don't worry – you can still apply.
The Home Office will check your status, but be aware that this may lead to a longer processing time for your application.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Creating an account
To start your BNO visa application in Hong Kong, you'll need to create an account on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
Visit the official site and set up your account or log in if you already have one. This account will be crucial for managing your application throughout the process.
2. Filling out the online form
Once you're logged in, you'll need to complete the BNO visa application form. You'll provide personal information, including your BNO status and residential details in Hong Kong.
If you're applying with dependents, you'll also need to include their information. Make sure to answer all mandatory questions marked with an asterisk (*) to avoid delays.
3. Paying fees
After filling out the form, you'll need to pay the application fee and healthcare surcharge. The visa fee is £180 for a 2.5-year stay or £250 for a 5-year stay. The healthcare surcharge varies depending on your length of stay and age.
For adults staying 2.5 years, it's £2,587.50, while for a 5-year stay, it's £5,175. You'll pay these fees online as part of your application.
4. Booking biometrics appointment
The final step is to schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC) to provide your biometric information, including fingerprints and a photo.
You'll need to bring your printed application form, a passport-sized photo, appointment confirmation, and supporting documents to this appointment. Remember, you can only bring one cabin-sized bag into the VAC, and certain items are prohibited for security reasons.
Next steps after approval
Once your BNO visa application is approved, you'll receive a letter or email explaining what to do next. You'll need to travel to the UK within 90 days if you proved your identity at a visa application center. If you used the smartphone app, you should travel before your permission expires.
How to get a Hong Kong Work Visa for Foreigners
After arriving in the UK, consider preparing for the Life in the UK test, which doesn't expire. Also, start gathering evidence of your residence, such as utility bills and tax documents, as you'll need these for future applications.
Remember, after 5 years of continuous residence, you can apply for settlement, and after one more year, you might be eligible for citizenship.
