BNO Visa vs Tier 2 Visa – a guide for Hong Kong doctors 

  • September 01, 2022
 

Once you have received a job offer to work in the NHS, Hong Kong doctors have two options to choose from when applying for a visa: the British National Overseas (BNO) visa or the Tier 2 Skilled Worker visa for health and care workers. 

The two visas have different criteria, requirements and merits, and which is best for any doctor will depend on the individual’s circumstances. 

To help you better understand which visa is best suited to Hong Kong doctors relocating to the UK, we’ve put together this blog which will touch on the following questions: 

Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for. 

British National (Overseas) Visa 

If you’re from Hong Kong and are a British national (overseas), you and your family members can apply for a British National (Overseas) visa, also known as a BNO visa. It allows you to live, work and study in the UK and was launched by the UK Home Office in 2021.  

Within the BNO visa, there are two broad ‘routes’ which have the same general conditions but cater to two different groups of people: 

  1. BNO Status Holder route – for BNOs and their dependent partners or minor children. Other adult family members with a high degree of dependency may also apply under this route. 
  2. BNO Household Member route – for BNO citizens’ adult children (born on or after 1 July 1997) and the adult child’s dependent partner and minor children. All applicants must form part of the same household as the BNO citizen (i.e. normally live together) and be applying alongside the BNO family member. 

Tier 2 Skilled Worker Visa (Health & Care) 

A Tier 2 visa is what allows overseas health and care workers to live, and work in the UK. Similarly to the BNO visa, it is provided by the Home Office following a job offer from a UK employer with a valid Tier 2 Sponsorship License. 

The list of valid Tier 2 Sponsors can be found here.  

It is safe to assume that the NHS trust you are applying to has a valid Tier 2 Sponsorship licence and that your IMG Consultant will have already checked this for you. 

The Tier 2 visa allows you to work in the UK for the duration of your sponsorship period.  

You can also bring over certain family members with you on a Tier 2 Dependent visa. 

For a detailed overview of the Tier 2 Health & Care Worker Visa, see our blog here

BNO Visa vs Tier 2 Visa 

The BNO or Tier 2 visa essentially serve the same purpose for Hong Kong doctors, but they have some differences and similarities which are important to understand in order to make an informed decision between the two. 

The main characteristics of the two visas are summarised below:  

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) 

Some of the most significant differences between the two visas is that on the BNO visa, you and your dependents must pay the IHS, whereas the IHS is no longer applicable to doctors on the Tier 2 visa. 

You can claim this back every 6 months, but processing can take up to 6 weeks, and you may be doing this several times throughout the duration of your visa. You can read more about this here

Police Check or Certificate of No Criminal Convictions (CNCC) 

For the Tier 2 visa, you are required to produce a CNCC by the Home Office, whereas it is not required for the BNO visa, but it is very likely that you will be asked by the Trust to provide one. 

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) 

On the Tier 2 visa, you will require a CoS, which is a digital reference number from a Certified Sponsor (your NHS Trust) which you will need to complete your visa application. 

With the BNO visa, you do not need a CoS because this visa isn’t dependent on a job offer. 

Dependents 

The criteria for dependents are stricter with the Tier 2 visa than the BNO visa. 

On the Tier 2 visa, the only people defined as dependents are your partner, children under 18 and children over 18 if they’re currently in the UK as your dependent, whereas the BNO visa has greater allowances for children over 18 and family members dependent on you because of illness, disability or age. 

BNO or Tier 2 Visa for HK Doctors 

Whether the BNO or Tier 2 visa is better is entirely dependent on the particular circumstances of each doctor, but options are entirely suitable for doctors relocating from Hong Kong to the UK. 

As mentioned above, some of these deciding factors may be the eligibility criteria, any dependents you may have, or your rights once you are in the UK on that visa. 

We know that securing a BNO visa in Hong Kong can be quite a challenge at present, so if you think that the Health & Care Visa is a more feasible or easier option for you, don’t hesitate to connect with us to discuss your options. 

Visas for Families 

If you are relocating to the UK with family, each member of your family will need to apply for a visa alongside you. 

BNO Visa 

For doctors travelling on the BNO visa, you will be able to have your family apply as ‘dependents’. 

This can include your:  

  • husband, wife, civil partner or unmarried partner 
  • child or grandchild under 18 
  • child 18 or older, born on or after 1 July 1997 (and their partner or child under 18) 
  • parent, grandparent, brother, sister, son or daughter (18 or older) if they live with you and they’re dependent on you because of illness, disability or their age 

When you apply, you will need to provide evidence of your relationship with these family members and that you normally live together. 

As a British national (overseas), you’ll need to submit your application first to get an application number. This is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). Your family members must use your application number when they apply. 

Your family members will need to apply for a BNO visa with the same duration as yours (i.e. 2 years and 6 months or 5 years) and will be able to extend their visa if you apply to extend yours. 

Adult dependent relatives will need to use your extension reference number, whilst other family members can apply separately from you. 

The cost of your family’s BNO visa will be the same as yours - £180 or £250 (per person). 

Tier 2 Visa 

For doctors with a Tier 2 visa, your family will need a dependent visa to live with you in the UK. They will need to complete separate applications. 

Your family members can apply for a dependent visa if they are your: 

  • husband, wife, civil partner or unmarried partner 
  • child under 18 (including if they were born in the UK during your stay) 
  • child over 18 if they’re currently in the UK as your dependent 

When you apply, you will need to provide evidence of your relationship with these family members and that you normally live together. 

There can be a range of factors that will affect a family member’s eligibility for the Dependent visa, so we recommend you check here for full details. 

Each family member will need to complete a separate application and pay the visa fee. 

Once you have completed your own application for the Tier 2 visa, they’ll also will need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application. 

As part of their application, your partner and children will need to prove their identity. 

The cost of your family’s Dependent visa will be the same as yours – either £232 or £464 (per person). 

BNO Visa Application Process 

It is important to check what documents you will need before you begin your application. 

As part of your online application, you’ll need to prove your identity. How you do this depends on what type of passport you have. You’ll either: 

BNO visa applications can be completed from within the UK or outside the UK, but in either instance, the application is completed online, and the process is as follows: 

Compile your details and scan all required documents before starting. You can find the full list of required documents here

  • Start the application 
  • Create a UK Visas and Immigration account 
  • Pay the visa fee  
  • Further actions will be prompted: 
    • Download document check list - A helpful checklist to ensure you submit everything that is needed (we strongly recommend you use this to ensure nothing is missed). 
    • Provide documents and biometric details - At this stage, you will need to download the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan your passport with a biometric chip and upload a photo of yourself*. You can choose this option if you have a British National (Overseas) passport, a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport or a passport from an EEA country. 
    • Making an appointment with your local visa application centre – If you do not hold a passport with a biometric chip, you can go to an appointment at a visa application centre to give your fingerprints and a photo - this is to get a biometric residence permit (BRP)
    • Selecting location for BRP pick up in UK – If you have applied for a BRP, you will have 30 days from your date of arrival in the UK to retrieve this from a post office, so think carefully about the location you choose in the UK. Once you’ve chosen, you will be sent a BRP collection letter which you should print and take to the post office to retrieve your BRP. 
  • Submit your completed application 

*If you choose not to apply for a BRP and your visa application is approved, you will be given a link to generate a code to share when necessary. This may be people concerned with your relocation such as your employer or landlord, and they will be able to use the code to check your status on the gov.uk website. 

You can find the online application form here and you’ll be told what you need to do when you apply. Your IMG Consultant will also be able to assist you with the application. 

Application Review 

Once you’ve applied, you can expect to receive a decision within 12 weeks, though your application may take longer to process if you need to provide more evidence. 

Please note, you can apply for the BNO visa from overseas, but you should wait for a decision on your application before you travel to the UK. 

Tier 2 (Skilled Worker) Visa Application Process 

Like the BNO visa, we always advise that you check what documents you will need before you begin your application. 

Once you have accepted a job offer and pre-employment checks are complete, the hospital will apply for a CoS from the UK Home Office. 

Health and Care Visa applications are complete online, and the process is as follows: 

Compile your details and scan all required documents before starting. You can find the full list of required documents here

  • Start and complete the application - Once you have entered all your details, the application service will offer an appointment at a local visa appointment centre near you. 
  • Pay the visa fee  
  • Further actions will be prompted: 
    • Download document check list - A helpful checklist to ensure you submit everything that is needed (we strongly recommend you use this to ensure nothing is missed). 
    • Provide documents and biometric details - At this stage, you can upload electronic copies of your documents. 
    • Making an appointment with your local visa application centre - Once you have made an appointment you will receive your appointment confirmation letter via email. Make note of the details and print this confirmation to take with you to the appointment. 
    • Selecting location for Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) pick up in UK - You will have 30 days from your date of arrival in the UK to retrieve your BRP from a post office, so think carefully about the location you choose in the UK. Once you’ve chosen, you will be sent a BRP collection letter which you should print and take to the post office to retrieve your BRP. 
  • Submit your completed application 

Application Review 

Once you’ve completed all the above steps your application will be processed for review, and you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within: 

  • 4 weeks, if you’re outside the UK 
  • 8 weeks, if you’re inside the UK 

Every application is different however, so your application may take longer to process if you need to provide more evidence. 

You may be able to pay to get a faster decision. How you do this depends on whether you’re outside the UK or inside the UK.  

#IMG Tips 

  1. Take time to choose best visa for you – speak to your IMG Consultant to discuss your options and circumstances to decide the best visa for you. 
  2. Gather and scan all documents early – go through the relevant checklist and read the guidance provided to stay on top of your application and minimise any delays 
  3. Think about the start date you want written on your CoS – if you will be applying for the Skilled Worker visa, think carefully about what date you want written on your CoS (it is only valid for 90 days) 
  4. Have your application checked before submitting – your IMG Consultant will be more than happy to double check your visa application before it’s submitted – take advantage, we’re here to help! 
  5. Apply for the CNCC early – you will almost certainly need a CNCC regardless of which visa you choose, so apply for this early to speed up the process. 

My visa application is complete, what’s next? 

First things first, congratulations! You are just a few steps away from completing your journey to the UK and can now firm up your relocation plans, putting into action your relocation checklist.  

With your application under review, you should begin discussing your relocation plans with your IMG Consultant. This includes accommodation and travel, schooling, banking and any other questions you might have – our relocation team is happy to help! 

Don’t forget, once your application is being processed, you can track its progress online. 

Getting started 

Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss job options in the NHS, from the typical doctor salary in the UK to the most suitable hospital locations for you. 

If you have any other questions, please feel free to get in touch with our team.  

For advice, guidance and news and updates for IMGs, join the conversation through the links below. 

            

Sources 

https://www.gov.uk/british-national-overseas-bno-visa 

https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-8939/ 

https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa 

https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa 

https://www.gov.uk/apply-immigration-health-surcharge-refund/healthcare-setting

 

Relevant Jobs

105,504- 139,882

A large NHS teaching hospital in the East Midlands is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in lung, gynaecology, and/or colorectal cancer. The oncology department comprises a team of over 20 consultants and is supported by a large team of specialty doctors and junior trainees.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.

FRCR (or equivalent) and extensive oncology experience are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in lung, gynaecology, and/or colorectal cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide comprehensive non-surgical oncology services, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy clinics, for patients across lung, gynaecology, and/or colorectal tumour sites.

  • Participate in the oncology on-call rota (1:12) and provide reciprocal cover for colleagues during periods of leave.

  • Support the education and training of junior doctors, specialty doctors, ACPs, and medical students.

  • Contribute to clinical governance, service development, and research initiatives across the Trust.

LIFE IN THE EAST MIDLANDS

This role is based in the East Midlands, a region that offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and rural charm. Residents can enjoy city living in Derby or find quieter settings in the nearby countryside and villages. The area boasts outstanding schools, excellent transport links, and a wide variety of cultural, sporting, and outdoor activities. With its strong ties to Britain’s industrial heritage and the beautiful Peak District on its doorstep, the East Midlands is a popular choice for healthcare professionals relocating to the UK.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists

  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice

  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions

  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:

  • Document gathering and checking

  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable

  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation

  • Travel Arrangements

£105,504 - £139,882

This exceptional opportunity beckons Consultant Histopathologists specializing in Gynae oncopathology to become integral members of an NHS Trust that is a global beacon in cancer research and treatment. This role offers a chance to contribute to a consultant-led, subspecialist histopathology team, making a significant impact on the forefront of cancer care. We invite enthusiastic candidates to explore this exciting career prospect through NHS Jobs in the UK.

The NHS Foundation Trust, standing as Europe\'s largest comprehensive cancer center, commands an impressive annual budget of £360 million, employing over 3,500 staff, including 335 medical professionals. Acknowledged for its excellence, the Trust consistently ranks among the top four in national surveys, affirming its commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. The Histopathology Department, under the leadership of esteemed professionals, manages a substantial caseload, processing around 21,000 surgical pathology accessions annually. This involves the examination of approximately 280,000 slides, with a notable 1,000 cases annually seeking second opinions, underscoring the department\'s dedication to providing comprehensive diagnostic support.

This role is tailor-made for ambitious consultants looking to expand their career horizons. The well-funded department is a hub for impactful research, underscored by its recognition in a recent CQC report as an area of outstanding practice. The NHS Foundation Trust has a strong reputation for education and training, supporting junior doctor training programs across various specialties.

Living in London, a vibrant metropolis, provides a unique lifestyle enriched by cultural diversity. Residents can explore scenic spots like Hyde Park and the Thames River. World-renowned schools, including Imperial College London and University College London, contribute to the city\'s intellectual vibrancy. Excellent transport links facilitate easy travel within the city and to major cities and airports. Housing options, ranging from historic townhouses to modern apartments, accommodate diverse preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enriching life for medical professionals in the heart of London.

Apply now for a dynamic career at the forefront of cancer care, complemented by the vibrant and diverse urban lifestyle offered by the capital city.

AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?

Non-EEA candidates: 

  • FRCPath
  • Experience in Histopathology (sub specialised in Gynae oncopathology)

EEA candidates: 

  • Specialist certification in Histopathology
  • Experience in Histopathology (sub specailised in Gynae oncopathology)

UK candidates: 

  • CCT, CESR or within 6-12 months of specialist registration 
  • Experience in Histopathology (sub specialised in Gynae oncopathology)

 

83,519 - 126,025

A hospital in the Channel Islands is looking for a Staff Grade Doctor in General Medicine with interests in Respiratory, Renal, or Care of the Elderly. The department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This role is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCP qualifications are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Full registration with the General Medical Council and a minimum of 2 years of post-qualifying experience are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Respiratory, Renal, or Care of the Elderly should apply. The salary will be between £58,742 and £97,050 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide high-quality care across both inpatient and outpatient services within the chosen specialty.
  • Participate in the middle-grade tier rota, including on-call duties.
  • Support the clinical management of patients in various units, including emergency and intensive care.
  • Collaborate with consultants and multidisciplinary teams to ensure continuous service improvement.

LIFE IN THE CHANNEL ISLANDS

The hospital is located in a vibrant town, with popular residential areas offering both urban and rural living options. The region offers excellent schools, efficient transport links, and a wide range of leisure activities for both adults and families, including beautiful beaches, sports facilities, and cultural events. The area has a rich history, having been a strategic location during World War II and now boasting a unique blend of cultural influences.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:

  • Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
  • Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
105,504 - 139,882

A UK-based mental health service is seeking a Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist to join their Neurodevelopmental Team. This is a part-time (0.8 FTE), permanent post, offering an exciting opportunity to take on a senior clinical leadership role within a well-established specialist service for children and adolescents with complex neurodevelopmental conditions.

The team operates within a multidisciplinary framework, delivering comprehensive assessments, pharmacological treatment, and evidence-based care for young people. The role is ideal for experienced consultants looking to shape service delivery while maintaining strong clinical involvement.

This opportunity is also open to international applicants, particularly those eligible for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register and who will be applying via CESR.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • Job Title: Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist – Neurodevelopmental Team

  • Contract: 8 Programmed Activities (PAs) per week – Part-Time

  • Contract Type: Permanent
  • Salary: £105,000 – £139,000 (pro rata, dependent on experience)

Applicants must have:

  • Full GMC registration with a licence to practise
  • GMC Specialist Register in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Section 12(2) MHA approval, or a willingness to complete this upon appointment
  • Experience working in child, adolescent, or neurodevelopmental psychiatric services
  • Strong leadership, multidisciplinary collaboration, and communication skills
  • The ability to travel independently across service sites, including schools and service users\' homes

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Lead on psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and pharmacological treatment planning for young people with complex and/or high-risk neurodevelopmental presentations.

  • Provide consultation and guidance to the multidisciplinary team, as well as external agencies including paediatrics, schools, Tier 4 providers, and primary care.
  • Maintain clinical oversight for young people under the care of the team, participating in emergency assessments and the consultant out-of-hours rota.
  • Attend and contribute to weekly multidisciplinary team meetings and clinical formulations.
  • Collaborate with carers, families, and professionals to co-create effective, evidence-based care plans.
  • Support transitions from child to adult mental health services in line with protocol.
  • Fulfil duties under the Mental Health Act, including conducting assessments and contributing to reports and tribunals as required.
  • Maintain clear and timely medical documentation and support audit and quality improvement initiatives.

MANAGEMENT & STRATEGIC RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Provide senior clinical leadership in partnership with the non-medical Clinical Team Lead.

  • Contribute to the development of service-wide clinical guidelines and care pathways.
  • Support service planning and transformation initiatives based on emerging need.
  • Actively participate in governance activities, clinical audit, and performance monitoring.
  • Engage with stakeholders and external partners at strategic and operational levels.

LIFE IN THE REGION

This role is based in a well-connected and scenic part of the UK, ideal for those who enjoy a balance between urban accessibility and countryside living. With excellent road and rail links, London is just 1 hour by train and car, offering easy commuting and travel.

The area is highly attractive for families, with access to top-rated schools, green open spaces, and a vibrant local community. Whether you\'re seeking historic towns, cultural attractions, or tranquil rural retreats, this region offers something for everyone.
 

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
  • At least two video interview preparation sessions.
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:

  • Document gathering and checking.
  • COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
  • Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.
105,504- 139,882

An NHS teaching hospital in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in urology. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Clinical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.

  • The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.

  • Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.

  • Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.

  • Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.

Life in Kent

The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.

Kent boasts a wide range of excellent primary and secondary schools, including several grammar schools, and is well connected to London via high-speed rail and road. Residents enjoy easy access to historic castles, the coast, national parks, shopping, and outdoor activities—perfect for both adults and families.

Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent holds historical significance with its Roman heritage, medieval cathedrals, and coastal defense legacy, offering a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists

  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice

  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions

  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you all the way to starting your new role, including:

  • Document gathering and checking

  • COS and Visa Application support, if applicable

  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation

  • Travel arrangements

  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care

Search Vacancies

Ask a question

Check your salary

error: Content is protected !!