Introduction

In response to the implementation of the controversial national security law in Hong Kong, the United Kingdom government announced its promise to offer a new visa route to British National (Overseas) (BNO) passport holders and their immediate relatives. This article will discuss the details of BNO visa scheme and its potential impact on Hong Kong citizens.

Background

BNO is a special passport granted to Hong Kong residents who were British Dependent Territories Citizens before the handover of Hong Kong to China in 1997. It grants holders certain consular assistance in foreign countries. However, BNO does not provide right of abode or any other form of citizenship in the United Kingdom.

Following the enactment of the national security law in Hong Kong by the Chinese government, the UK government announced its plan to open a new visa route for BNO passport holders. The visa would allow them to live and work in the UK for up to five years and eventually apply for British citizenship.

Details of BNO visa scheme

The BNO visa scheme is set to launch in early 2021. The visa is open to all BNO passport holders and their immediate family members, including spouses, partners, and children under the age of 18. The visa will be renewable, offering an opportunity for successful applicants to stay and work in the UK for up to five years. After five years in the UK and meeting the eligibility criteria, BNO visa holders can apply for permanent residence and then later apply for British citizenship.

To be eligible, BNO passport holders must prove that they can support themselves for at least six months in the UK and that they have no serious criminal convictions. They also need to pay the relevant visa fees and healthcare charges.

Potential impact on Hong Kong citizens

The BNO visa is a significant opportunity for Hong Kong citizens who wish to escape the political turmoil in their home country. According to official estimates, up to 3 million Hong Kong residents are eligible for BNO passports, with many expected to apply for the new visa.

The scheme has received mixed reactions from the international community. While the UK government claimed its offer is a demonstration of its commitment to Hong Kong’s autonomy, Chinese officials have warned that the move would violate international law and that Britain should avoid interfering in Hong Kong’s affairs. It remains to be seen whether China will take any retaliatory action against the UK over the issue.

In conclusion, the BNO visa scheme is a positive step taken by the UK government to support Hong Kong citizens amid the ongoing tensions in the region. While it may face challenges from the Chinese government, the visa scheme is still likely to be attractive to Hong Kong residents who are seeking a new start in a more stable and democratic country.