The UK government has expanded its visa scheme for Hong Kong residents following the 20-year prison sentence handed to pro-democracy activist and media mogul Jimmy Lai.

Under new changes announced by the Home Office, adult children of British National (Overseas) — BNO — status holders who were under 18 at the time of Hong Kong’s 1997 handover to China will now be eligible to apply independently of their parents. Their partners and children will also qualify under the expanded route.

The Home Office estimates that approximately 26,000 additional people will move to the UK over the next five years as a result of the expansion.

The announcement comes hours after Lai, 78, received what his family described as a “heartbreakingly cruel” sentence. They say his health is deteriorating rapidly.

The BNO visa route was introduced in 2020 following Beijing’s imposition of the national security law in Hong Kong. It allows BNO passport holders to live in the UK, gain settled status after five years, and apply for British citizenship one year later.

Since its launch, more than 230,000 visas have been granted and nearly 170,000 Hongkongers have relocated to the UK.

The expansion closes an eligibility gap that previously divided families, allowing some children to resettle while others were excluded.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer raised Lai’s case directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a recent visit to Beijing. The UK government has pledged to “rapidly engage” further following the sentencing.

However, concerns remain regarding changes to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) requirements. Proposed adjustments include raising the English language requirement from B1 to B2 level and requiring migrants to earn at least £12,570 annually for three to five years before applying for permanent residency.

The government has clarified that Hongkongers on the BNO route will still be eligible for settled status after five years, unlike other migrants whose pathway may be extended to 10 years.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the UK would continue to honour its historic commitment to the people of Hong Kong, while Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the government’s steadfast support.

Advocacy group Hong Kong Watch welcomed the expansion but warned it would be only a “half-measure” unless concerns over permanent residency requirements are addressed.