Home Office launches BNO App

The United Kingdom has launched a smartphone application (App) for the Hong Kong British Nationals Overseas/BN(O) visa.

Key Points:

• The App allows BN(O) and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport holders to submit their biometrics and confirm their identity through their phones. European Economic Area biometric passport holders already have access to this App.
• Individuals can use the App while in the U.K. or abroad.
• Applicants with a valid BN(O) passport can use this link for their application. If the application is approved, they can travel to the U.K. using any valid passport.
• Applicants without a valid BN(O) passport who are BN(O) status holders can apply for a BN(O) passport before submitting an application.
• Those who encounter trouble scanning documents should complete their applications at a Visa Application Centre if they are in Hong Kong or at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services location.
• BN(O) status holders and BN(O) family members with existing U.K. visas are not required to apply until their current visa or Leave Outside the Rules is close to the expiry date.

Background: The App is being made available to BN(O)s after the U.K. opened a new BN(O) visa category for Hong Kong BN(O) status holders on Jan. 31, 2021.

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