Hong Kong BN(O) Visa: Dependent Children Under 18

• Published date: 14 May 2021
• Subject Matter: Immigration, General Immigration, Work Visas
• Law Firm: Richmond Chambers
• Author: Zoe Bantleman

The BN(O) Household Child route is for the dependent child or grandchild of a person who is making an application for entry clearance or permission to stay as a BN(O) Status Holder or as the partner of a BN(O) Status Holder at the same time.

This Guide is for children under the age of 18. We have separate guides for the other applicants:

• Hong Kong BN(O) Visa for BNO Status Holders
• Hong Kong BN(O) Visa for Dependent Partners of BNOs
• Hong Kong BN(O) Visa for Adult Dependant Relatives
• Hong Kong BN(O) Visa for Children over 18 born after 1997 of BNOs

Applications for Hong Kong BN(O) visas opened on 31 January 2021.

There are validity, suitability and eligibility requirements that a child must meet to make the application. The eligibility requirements cover your:

• Relationship
• Care
• Age
• Ordinary residence
• Adequate maintenance and accommodation
• TB Certificate

You do not need to apply under this route if you are a BN(O). You can instead, apply as a BN(O) Status Holder in your own right, see our Guide: Hong Kong BN(O) Visa for BNO Status Holders.

Validity Requirements for a Hong Kong BN(O) Visa

How do you apply for a BN(O) visa?

If you have a chipped HKSAR, BN(O), or EEA passport you can apply for the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) Visa using the UK Immigration: ID Check app. Alternatively, you can apply online using the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) Visa application form.

What are the application fees for a BN(O) visa?

You must pay the application fee ('180 to apply to stay for 30 months or '250 to apply to stay for 5 years) and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) fee ('1,175 if you're applying to stay for 30 months or '2,350 if you're applying to stay for 5 years).

Do you need to apply from outside the UK?

If you are not currently in the UK, you will need to apply to make your BN(O) visa application and obtain entry clearance before you travel to the UK. If you are in the UK lawfully, or if you fall within the exception for overstayers, you can apply to switch to this visa from within the UK.

Additionally, for your BNO visa application to be valid, you will need to provide any required biometrics, and provide a passport or other travel document to prove your identity and nationality.

Suitability Requirements for a Hong Kong BN(O) Visa

You must not fall for refusal under the general grounds for refusal. This will consider your personal history and immigration history. If there are any concerns, you should seek immigration advice prior to applying.

Additionally, if you are applying from within the UK, you must not be in breach of immigration laws (unless paragraph 39E, the exception for overstayers, applies), or on immigration bail. See my blog for an answer to the question: What is Paragraph 39E?

If you are in...