The UK government formally announced yesterday that all HK BNO holders (whether it has expired or not) and their dependents are eligible to apply for a visa allowing them to stay in the UK for 5 years, and afterwards, apply for UK citizenship status. This visa allows HK-ers to study and work without the need to apply for further visas, giving a significant incentive for HK-ers to relocate to the UK.
For HK-ers who do not have a BNO but aged 18-23 AND born to at least one parent who holds a BNO, the UK government may still grant a discretionary visa for them to study and work in the UK. The only condition for this group of HK-ers is that they must prove that they are still dependant upon their families financially.
With this significant change to the UK's immigration rules for HK, we strongly recommend HK-ers to consider relocating to the UK for further education and work.
Whether you are a UK employer or HK-er, please do not hesitate to PM me if you have any enquiries on this issue.