The UK is expanding its visa program to allow thousands more Hong Kong residents to settle, offering adult children of British National (Overseas) status holders and their families the chance to apply independently. The announcement comes amid growing restrictions on freedoms in Hong Kong and the 20-year prison sentence of British citizen Jimmy Lai under Beijing’s National Security Law.
Previously, only children under 18 at the 1997 handover could benefit from the British National route. The updated rules now allow adult children to apply on their own, while their partners and children can also join them in the UK. Officials estimate that around 26,000 people could move under this expanded program over the next five years.
A UK government statement emphasized that this expansion reflects the country’s longstanding commitment to Hong Kong residents, especially as rights and freedoms in the territory continue to erode. It specifically cited Lai’s sentencing as a stark reminder of the ongoing repression.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the UK has already welcomed nearly 170,000 Hong Kongers since 2021 and stressed that the expansion will help more families rebuild their lives. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper added that young people previously excluded due to age will now be able to benefit.
Since the launch of the BN(O) route, over 230,000 visas have been issued. The expansion closes gaps that previously left some family members unable to resettle. This initiative also forms part of wider UK reforms creating safe, legal pathways for those fleeing conflict and persecution, complementing programs for Ukrainians, Afghans, and others seeking refuge.
The move signals the UK’s commitment to humanitarian support while maintaining border control, aiming to offer secure alternatives to dangerous migration routes.
