Government makes further changes to Immigration Rules for BN(O) Nationals

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UK Government makes further changes to Immigration Rules for BN(O) Nationals

On 4 March 2021, the UK Government released the most recent Statement of Changes to the UK Immigration Rules, including further changes to the BN(O) visa route for Hong Kong BN(O) citizens which will be incorporated into the Immigration Rules from 6 April 2021.

These latest changes demonstrate the UK Government’s commitment to BN(O) citizens by including a provision that in cases of destitution or risk to a child through exceptional financial constraints once the family is living in the UK, the Government may lift the limit on access to public funds in the UK. This generous provision is not routinely seen in other immigration routes.

In other changes, the UK Government will require applicants who have entered the UK under what is known as ‘Leave Outside The Rules’ (LOTR) on a discretionary basis and in cases where they have previously been refused the BN(O) visa, to meet the financial requirement re maintenance and accommodation in the UK (ie applicants must show that they have the ability to maintain and accommodate themselves for at least the first 6 months in the UK).

SCMP Article: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3124295/penniless-hong-kong-bno-visa-holders-britain-could-be-given

To discuss the practical effect of these changes or to discuss any aspect of the application process for a BN(O) visa, please contact our specialist immigration consultant, Antonia Grant at antonia.grant@bowers.law

This Newsletter is not intended to be and should not be relied on as legal advice. You should seek professional legal advice before taking any action in relation to the subject-matter of this Newsletter.

bowers.law and alinea would like to keep in touch with you and to keep you informed of developments in the law and the ways in which we can help, advise and share risk with you.