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Immigration Controls: British National (Overseas)

Asked by Daisy CooperLiberal DemocratHome OfficeTabled Answered 19 May 2026UIN 503

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether she will produce new guidance on how to complete an Indefinite Leave to Remain application for families holding BNO citizenship, where one or more family members visa expiration date differs to the rest of the family.

Answered by Mike Tapp

The Hong Kong British National (Overseas) (BN(O)) route guidance already sets out the requirements for settlement, including the need for applicants to complete a period of five years’ continuous residence in the UK.

Applications under the BN(O) route are considered on an individual basis, and families have flexibility in when they apply, which can result in differing visa expiry dates between family members. Where this occurs, individuals may need to make a further application to extend their leave in order to qualify for settlement.

We keep all guidance under regular review to ensure it remains clear and up to date.

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