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Written question asked by Dan Carden (Labour) on Thursday, 18 December 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 5 January 2026. It was answered by Mike Tapp (Labour) on Wednesday, 7 January 2026 on behalf of the Home Office.

Immigration: Hong Kong

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether changes to immigration rules will apply retrospectively to BNO visa holders in the UK.

Answer

The Government remains steadfast in its support for members of the Hong Kong community in the UK.

BN(O) visa holders will attract a 5-year reduction in the qualifying period for settlement, meaning they will continue to be able to settle in the UK after 5 years’ residence, subject to meeting the mandatory requirements.

We are seeking views on earned settlement through the public consultation A Fairer Pathway to Settlement and will continue to listen to the views of Hong Kongers. Details of the earned settlement model will be finalised following that consultation, including when the Rules will apply from and any transitional arrangements that will apply.

In the meantime, the current rules for settlement under the BN(O) route will continue to apply.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
101458
Session
2024-26
Related items
Subjects
Immigration Hong Kong
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk