Hong Kong Watch welcomes the UK Government releasing further details of its new visa scheme for British National Overseas passport holders

Today the UK Government released further details of its new visa scheme, which would make it easier for British National Overseas passport holders to work and study in the UK as a pathway to citizenship. It includes a specific provision for the children of BNOs who were born after 1997, but are are over 18 years old.

The British Government’s new visa scheme for Hong Kongers who are BNO passport holders and their dependents will come into force in January 2021, with special dispensation given to Hong Kongers who need to enter the UK before the end of the year. The Home Office plans to announce further details of the new immigration rules for the Hong Kong BNO Visa in the Autumn, with an associated fees order.

Commenting on the release of additional details on the Government’s BNO scheme, Hong Kong Watch’s Director, Johnny Patterson, said:

“We welcome this move, which is generous & includes some provision for 18-23s. However, some questions remain unanswered & we will call for UK to ensure that the policy is streamlined for Hong Kongers.

The British have taken a bold and proportionate response to the decision by Beijing to rip up the Joint Declaration through the enactment of the National Security Law.

There are some gaps in the policy, particularly for young people whose parents are not BNOs. and so other countries should take action to establish an international lifeboat policy. The US Congress should pass the Safe Harbour Act as the provisions within for refugees will help plug some of the gaps in this policy.”

For further information on the full details announced today: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/british-nationals-overseas-in-hong-kong