LONDON, United Kingdom — In a move rooted in principle and urgency, Britain has announced the expansion of its visa route for people from Hong Kong, following the sentencing of democracy advocate Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison.
The decision comes as concern grows over the continued erosion of rights and freedoms in the former British colony.
British officials said the move reflects the UK’s moral commitment to the people of Hong Kong, which was handed back to China in 1997. This time, the expansion focuses on younger Hong Kongers—many of whom were previously left without a clear path to relocate.
UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has publicly called for Lai’s release on humanitarian grounds. The 78-year-old media tycoon and outspoken China critic is also a British citizen, adding urgency to London’s response.
Britain said it will continue to raise Lai’s case with the Chinese government, stressing that the decline of civil liberties in Hong Kong remains a serious concern.
Under the updated policy, children of British National (Overseas) status holders at the time of the 1997 handover will now be eligible to move to the UK with their families. Before this change, these children could not apply independently, limiting their options.
The UK government estimates that around 26,000 people will arrive through this expanded route over the next five years.
The move builds on an already significant migration wave. Since 2021, more than 170,000 Hong Kong residents have relocated to Britain under a special visa program created after Beijing’s crackdown on dissent in the financial hub.
Applicants will still need to meet eligibility and suitability requirements, as well as pay standard visa fees and the immigration health surcharge.
For many Hong Kong families, however, the message is clear.
As freedoms shrink back home, Britain is opening its doors wider—offering safety, stability, and a future beyond fear.
