More than 150,400 Hongkongers have relocated to Britain using a specialized immigration pathway since its launch in 2021, with 26,400 moving in the past year, based on official data. However, the number of applications and visas granted has been declining, with only 5,700 applications and 7,664 British National (Overseas) visas approved in the second quarter, down from the initial numbers.
The UK authorities mentioned a significant drop in applications compared to the initial surge, emphasizing a decline in recent quarters. Despite this, the total number of arrivals via the pathway stands at 150,400, with 26,400 individuals making the move between July last year and June.
The pathway was introduced in response to the national security law imposed on Hong Kong by Beijing in June 2020, prompting the UK to provide a safe haven for Hongkongers. As the situation continues to evolve, the UK Home Office plans to review the visa policy in the coming year.