Since 2021, more than 160,000 Hong Kongers have come to the United Kingdom through the British National (Overseas) or BN(O) scheme. The plan, launched after China tightened its control in Hong Kong, lets residents apply for a special visa that can lead to British citizenship and a passport.
The number has grown quickly. In the first year, roughly 45,000 people used the passport route; the latest figures show the figure has now passed 160,000. That’s up far from the 30,000 expected when the policy went live.
Why are so many moving? Many Hong Kongers face political uncertainty and worry about future rights under Beijing’s rule. The BN(O) visa offers a legal path to stay in the UK and, if they choose, to settle and work without restrictions.
UK officials say the scheme is working well. They note that migrants are starting businesses, joining NHS teams, and boosting local economies. The government plans to keep the program open until at least 2027, giving more people a chance to secure a safer future in the United Kingdom.
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