BNO Visa Extension UK 2025

The British National (Overseas) visa, commonly referred to as the BN(O) visa, provides a vital route for eligible Hong Kong residents and their families to live, work and study in the United Kingdom. Introduced in 2021 in response to political changes in Hong Kong, the scheme has seen significant uptake among BN(O) status holders who wish to establish their lives in the UK.

As part of the visa framework, BN(O) visa holders are granted limited leave to remain, usually for a period of either two years and six months or five years, depending on the option selected at the time of the initial application. At the end of this period, individuals who are not yet eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) must apply for an extension of their BN(O) visa to lawfully continue residing in the UK. It is critical to apply before the current visa expires to avoid overstaying, which can jeopardise future immigration applications.

What this article is about: This guide provides a detailed and practical overview of the BN(O) visa extension process. It explains the eligibility requirements, how to apply, what documents and fees are involved, and the rights applicants retain during the application period. It also clarifies how an extension fits into the broader pathway to ILR and ultimately British citizenship, including the continuing ‘no recourse to public funds’ restriction until ILR is granted, so BN(O) status holders can plan their immigration strategy with confidence.

Section A: Understanding the BNO Visa Extension

The BN(O) visa offers eligible Hong Kong residents and their families the opportunity to make the UK their home. Initially granted for either two years and six months or five years, this visa is not indefinite. Unless applicants qualify for settlement at the end of their initial grant, they will need to apply for an extension to remain lawfully in the UK. Applications must always be made before the current visa expires to avoid overstaying, which can have serious consequences for future applications.

An extension provides continuity of status and allows BN(O) visa holders to continue their journey towards Indefinite Leave to Remain. The process is not automatic: applicants must submit a formal application, meet eligibility criteria and pay the relevant fees. Understanding the purpose and function of the extension is important for planning long-term residence in the UK.

1. What is the BNO visa?

The BN(O) visa is a bespoke immigration route for British Nationals (Overseas) and certain family members, created to reflect the UK’s historic responsibility to Hong Kong residents. It allows holders to live, work and study in the UK, and provides a clear pathway to settlement and citizenship.

Unlike other temporary visas, the BN(O) route was designed with settlement in mind. However, the visa is granted for a fixed term, which means an extension may be required if the holder does not yet meet the five-year continuous residence requirement for ILR.

2. Why extension may be needed

Applicants may choose an initial two-and-a-half-year grant rather than the five-year option, usually to spread the cost of the Immigration Health Surcharge. In such cases, they will need to extend their visa to complete the required five years for ILR eligibility.

Even those granted five years may require an extension if they cannot meet the ILR residence requirements due to absences from the UK, breaks in lawful residence or other compliance issues. An extension ensures lawful status is maintained while working towards settlement.

3. How extension differs from settlement

Extending a BN(O) visa is distinct from applying for ILR. An extension provides another limited period of leave, usually for two years and six months or five years. ILR, by contrast, provides permanent residence without time restrictions, allowing the holder to remain in the UK indefinitely.

Applicants should assess their circumstances carefully. If they already meet the residence and other requirements for ILR, it may be more appropriate to apply directly for settlement rather than extending. For those not yet eligible, however, an extension is the necessary step to maintain continuous lawful residence.

Section A Summary:
The BN(O) visa is a temporary immigration status that can be extended when the initial grant expires, provided the applicant does not yet qualify for ILR. Extensions ensure lawful residence continues, maintaining access to work, study and healthcare, while allowing applicants to complete the qualifying period for settlement.

Section B: Eligibility Criteria for Extension

To extend a BN(O) visa, applicants must demonstrate that they continue to meet the requirements of the route. The extension is not automatic; the Home Office will assess eligibility in line with the Immigration Rules for BN(O) status holders and their dependants. Understanding the criteria is essential to avoid refusal and maintain lawful residence.

1. Who can apply to extend

The main applicant must hold valid leave under the BN(O) route at the time of the application. Applications can be made within the UK, and the applicant must not have breached immigration laws. Those who have overstayed are at risk of refusal unless they can show very limited and exceptional circumstances. Applying before the current visa expires is critical.

Extensions are available both to those who originally applied for two years and six months and now need more time to reach ILR, and to those whose initial five-year grant is ending but who are not yet ready to apply for settlement.

2. Family members and dependants

One of the features of the BN(O) route is its inclusive approach to family members. Eligible dependants include:

• Spouses, civil partners and unmarried partners of the main applicant
• Children under the age of 18
• Adult children born on or after 1 July 1997 and their partners or children under 18, if part of the same household
• In some circumstances, other adult family members with a high level of dependency

Family members must apply to extend at the same time as the main applicant, or already hold valid BN(O) dependant status. All dependants must demonstrate they remain part of the same household as the main applicant. Each family member must submit their own application and pay separate fees.

3. Financial and accommodation requirements

Applicants must show that they can adequately maintain and accommodate themselves and their family members in the UK without recourse to public funds. Evidence may include bank statements, employment contracts, payslips or proof of self-employment.

While there is no strict minimum income threshold, the Home Office assesses whether applicants can reasonably support themselves. Applicants must also show they have suitable accommodation, whether rented, owned or provided by family or friends, without overcrowding.

4. Immigration status and lawful residence

Applicants must continue to meet the good character and suitability requirements. This means no serious criminal convictions, compliance with UK laws and no evidence of deception in immigration matters.

Lawful residence is critical. Breaks in residence, significant absences or overstaying may affect eligibility. While the Home Office has limited discretion in certain cases, applicants should plan extensions carefully to avoid lapses in lawful status.

Section B Summary:
Eligibility for a BN(O) visa extension is centred on holding valid BN(O) leave, applying with eligible family members, demonstrating financial independence and suitable accommodation, and maintaining lawful residence and good character. Meeting these requirements ensures continuity of status while working towards settlement.

Section C: Application Process

Extending a BN(O) visa involves a structured application process. Applicants must prepare their documents, complete an online application form and pay the relevant fees. Careful planning helps avoid delays or refusals and ensures continuous lawful residence in the UK.

1. When to apply for an extension

Applicants should apply before their current BN(O) visa expires. The Home Office recommends applying within 28 days of the expiry date to avoid any risk of overstaying.

If an application is submitted in time, the applicant’s rights to live, work and study in the UK are automatically protected under Section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971 until a decision is made. This means applicants should not face disruption even if processing takes longer than expected.

2. Online application and documents required

The application is completed online through the GOV.UK portal. Each applicant, including dependants, must submit a separate form. After submitting, applicants will be asked to book an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo).

Key documents typically required include:

• Current passport or travel document
• Proof of BN(O) status
• Evidence of residence in the UK
• Financial documents such as bank statements or payslips
• Proof of accommodation
• Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate, if required

3. Application fees and Immigration Health Surcharge

Applicants must pay both a visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

• Visa application fee: £180 for a 2.5-year visa or £250 for a 5-year visa
• IHS: £1,035 per year for adults and £776 per year for children (payable upfront for the full visa period)

These fees apply per applicant, meaning dependants must each pay separately. Applicants should budget carefully, as costs can be significant for larger families.

4. Processing times and possible delays

Most BN(O) extension applications are processed within 12 weeks of biometrics being provided. However, timescales can vary depending on application volumes and complexity. Applicants with criminal records, incomplete documents or unclear residence histories may face longer processing times.

Priority services may be available for an additional fee, but availability depends on UKVCAS centres and Home Office resources. Importantly, applicants must not travel outside the UK while an application is pending, as this will result in the application being treated as withdrawn.

Section C Summary:
The BN(O) visa extension process requires an online application, supporting documents, payment of fees and a biometric appointment. By applying before the visa expires, avoiding travel during processing and preparing evidence carefully, applicants can ensure their rights are protected while awaiting a decision.

Section D: After Applying and Future Options

Once an application for a BN(O) visa extension has been submitted, applicants need to understand their rights during the waiting period and the long-term options available. The extension is not just about securing another period of lawful residence; it is also a stepping stone towards permanent settlement and British citizenship.

1. Rights while waiting for a decision

If an application is made before the existing visa expires, the applicant’s rights continue under Section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971 until the Home Office issues a decision. This means applicants remain lawfully present in the UK and do not lose access to work, study or healthcare during the processing period.

Applicants should retain evidence of their pending application in case they need to prove their status to employers, landlords or other authorities.

2. Work and study rights on extension

Holders of an extended BN(O) visa retain full rights to work in the UK, including employment and self-employment, without the need for sponsorship. They can also continue studying at UK institutions. These rights provide stability and allow families to plan their lives while awaiting settlement eligibility.

BN(O) visa holders cannot, however, access public funds. This restriction remains throughout the BN(O) visa route until ILR is granted.

3. Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

An extension gives applicants more time to complete the continuous five-year residence requirement for ILR. To qualify for ILR, applicants must show:

• Five years of continuous residence in the UK under the BN(O) route
• Compliance with the absence requirement (generally no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period)
• Good character and lawful conduct throughout their stay

ILR removes time restrictions and provides greater security, including access to public funds and protection from immigration control.

4. British citizenship after ILR

After holding ILR for at least 12 months, BN(O) visa holders may be eligible to apply for British citizenship by naturalisation. This is subject to additional requirements, including passing the Life in the UK Test, meeting English language requirements and demonstrating continued residence and good character.

Citizenship provides full rights as a British national, including the ability to hold a UK passport and participate fully in civic life.

Section D Summary:
Extending a BN(O) visa preserves applicants’ rights in the UK and provides continuity while they work towards settlement. It offers security for work and study, and serves as the pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain and, eventually, British citizenship.

FAQs

Can I switch from a different visa to the BNO route?
No. Only those who already hold BN(O) status can apply under this route. It is not possible to switch into the BN(O) visa from another UK visa category.

How many times can I extend my BNO visa?
There is no limit on the number of extensions, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements. Most applicants extend only once before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

What happens if my visa expires before I apply?
If your BN(O) visa expires and you have not applied for an extension in time, you may become an overstayer, which can affect future immigration applications. In exceptional cases, the Home Office may accept late applications, but this should not be relied upon.

Can dependants extend separately from the main applicant?
Dependants are expected to extend at the same time as the main applicant. If they apply separately, they must demonstrate that they remain eligible and are part of the same household as the main applicant.

How long does a BNO visa extension last?
Applicants can choose between a two-year six-month extension or a five-year extension. The choice depends on personal circumstances, such as affordability of the Immigration Health Surcharge.

Can I apply for ILR instead of extending?
Yes. If you already meet the five-year continuous residence requirement and other criteria, you can apply directly for Indefinite Leave to Remain instead of extending your BN(O) visa.

Conclusion

Extending a BN(O) visa is an important step for those who are not yet eligible for settlement but wish to maintain lawful residence in the UK. The process requires careful planning to ensure applications are submitted on time, supported by the correct documentation and in line with the Immigration Rules.

An extension preserves the right to live, work and study in the UK, while providing the time needed to complete the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain. For many BN(O) status holders, this is the bridge between temporary leave and permanent settlement, ultimately opening the path to British citizenship.

Employing a well-prepared strategy for extensions can prevent gaps in lawful residence and safeguard long-term immigration goals. For families, it also ensures that dependants continue to enjoy stability while working towards settlement together.

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