A misleading claim by a YouTuber recently sent waves of excitement through the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) (BNO) visa holder community in the UK. The YouTuber falsely reported that the UK government had revised its BNO policy, removing the requirement to pass the "Life in the UK" test for permanent residency. However, the YouTuber later retracted the claim, describing it as a "beautiful misunderstanding," leaving many BNO holders disheartened.

HK residents who migrate to the UK on a "BNO 5+1" visa are required to pass the "Life in the UK" test before obtaining permanent residency. However, the YouTuber recently posted a video claiming that a petition initiated by HK migrants in the UK, calling for the immediate granting of British citizenship to BNO visa holders, had received a response. According to the YouTuber, the UK Home Office had replied to the petition earlier this month, stating that it had "no intention to amend the law to grant the right to immediate British citizenship." The Home Office also cited Section 4(2) of the British Nationality Act 1981, which applies to those applying for British citizenship, noting that they do not need to prove their English proficiency or knowledge of life in the UK. Hence, the YouTuber suggested that BNO visa holders might be exempt from taking the "Life in the UK" test and demonstrating English language qualifications.

The "Life in the UK" test is a mandatory requirement for those seeking "settlement or indefinite leave to remain" (ILR) in the UK. BNO visa holders need to pass the test and demonstrate English language proficiency by the fifth year of their residency to be eligible for ILR. Failure to meet these requirements means they would have to apply for a visa extension, delaying their path to citizenship.

The false announcement initially sparked celebration among some BNO visa holders, but the eventual clarification left many disappointed. Social media commentary reflected frustration, with some users sarcastically noting that "the UK government is unlikely to waive the test, especially given the current economic situation." Others humorously remarked on the complexity of UK legal language, with one user quipping, "If you can understand the official statement, you've already passed the English test."

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