I’m very proud that Greater Bristol has one of the largest and most vibrant Hong Kong National (Overseas) communities anywhere in the UK.
Given the specific circumstances of the BN(O) Visa being established, I was very pleased to see the Home Secretary confirm that Hong Kong BN(O) visa holders will retain the existing 5-year pathway to settlement.
Ahead of this announcement, having heard from and met with residents who have British National (Overseas) status and moved here from Hong Kong for greater security, I spoke with Migration and Citizenship Minister, Mike Tapp MP, personally to raise the community’s concerns and mine.
I followed up on this meeting with a letter to Minister Tapp. In response to this, Minister Tapp sent me a letter that made clear that the Government remains steadfast in its support for members of the Hong Kong community in the UK and that it is fully committed to the BN(O) route, which will continue to welcome Hong Kongers.
I appreciate that some BN(O) visa holders have further questions about wider proposed changes, and it would be valuable for residents to feed into a consultation which was flagged by Minister Tapp in his letter. The consultation can be found here. Please be aware, this consultation closes at 11:59pm on Februrary 12, 2026.
I have already contacted the Home Office to ask for further clarification on how the English-speaking and income requirements will be implemented for older residents, those being cared for by or caring for others, and also for those nearing the point where they would be able to apply for ILR.
As your local MP, I was glad to speak up for our local community and I am glad this 5-year settlement pathway has been protected by our Labour Government.