Moving to a new country is exciting, but it also comes with challenges. This page provides key information to help Hong Kongers settling in the UK under the BN(O) visa, work visa, or other immigration routes.

1. Immigration and Legal Status

• BN(O) Visa Holders – You can live, work, and study in the UK. After 5 years, you may apply for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain), and after 12 months of settlement, you may apply for British citizenship.

• Registering with the Council – When you move into a local area, check your local council website for council tax, waste collection, and local services.

• National Insurance Number – You need this to work. Apply online via the UK Government website if you don’t already have one.

2. Housing and Accommodation

• Renting is common for new arrivals. Popular websites: Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom.

• A deposit is usually 4–6 weeks’ rent. Ensure your landlord uses a government-backed tenancy deposit protection scheme.

• If you plan to buy a home later, most banks require at least 10–20% deposit for a mortgage.

3. Healthcare (NHS)

• BN(O) visa applicants pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which gives full access to the NHS.

• Register with a local GP (family doctor) soon after arriving. You will need proof of address and ID.

• Emergency services: Dial 999 for life-threatening emergencies or 111 for urgent medical advice.

4. Education and Schools

• Children aged 5–16 must attend school.

• You can apply for a place through your local council.

• The UK has state schools (free), academies, and private schools.

• Universities often welcome students from Hong Kong; tuition fees vary depending on residency status.

5. Banking and Finance

• To open a bank account, you usually need: passport, proof of address (rental agreement, utility bill), and sometimes proof of employment or visa status.

• Major banks: HSBC UK, Barclays, NatWest, Lloyds, Monzo, Starling.

• Credit history starts from zero when you arrive. Consider building it with small credit card use and timely payments.

6. Work and Employment

• You can work freely with a BN(O) visa.

• Job sites: Indeed, Reed, LinkedIn, Totaljobs.

• Your CV should follow the UK format (no photo, concise, skills-focused).

• Minimum wage (2025): £11.44/hour for adults 21+.

7. Everyday Life and Community

• Public transport varies by city; London uses the Oyster/contactless system, while other cities have local bus and train passes.

• Hong Kong community groups exist across the UK for networking and support (e.g., Hongkongers in Britain, WelcomeHK).

• British culture values politeness, queuing, and punctuality.

8. Support and Resources

• UK Government BN(O) Visa Guidance: gov.uk/bno-visa

• Citizens Advice: Free support for legal, financial, and housing matters.

• NHS Website: nhs.uk

• Hong Kong Welcome Programmes: Local councils and charities often run community support services.