670 Hongkongers settle in UK with BN(O) visa, but applicant numbers miss target

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Connor MycroftFebruary 28, 2026 at 02:42 PM

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As of the end of 2025, nearly 670 Hong Kong residents have been granted settlement in the UK through the British National (Overseas) visa pathway, which was launched in January 2021 in response to China's national security law. This number is below the UK government's initial estimates. While tens of thousands of Hongkongers are expected to qualify for settled status this year, the total number of applicants has not met expectations. Despite a broader UK policy change doubling the permanent settlement qualifying period for migrants, BN(O) visa holders remain eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years and citizenship after six. Experts suggest uncertainties surrounding the UK's long-term migration policies may be deterring potential applicants.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Britain 40% Beijing 50% Home Office 60% British National (Overseas) ×270% United Kingdom ×380% Hongkongers ×490%

Keywords

bn(o) visa 100% hongkongers 100% uk settlement 90% indefinite leave to remain 80% migration 70% british national (overseas) 60% national security law 50% home office 40% citizenship 40%