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Cliff Buddle

The exodus of Hong Kong people under a controversial British visa scheme is often viewed from a political perspective.
The scheme, for British National (Overseas) passport holders, was introduced in 2021 in response to the city’s new national security law and has been presented by the UK as an escape route for the oppressed, prompting a furious response from Beijing. It is inextricably linked with politics.
But behind the rhetoric lies a human story. A recent survey, the biggest yet, provided a clear but complex picture of those who have moved to the UK.
The poll, by think tank British Future and umbrella group Welcoming Committee for Hong Kongers, sought views from more than 2,000 BN (O) migrants. It revealed the difficulties they face while highlighting positive experiences.
A stand-out figure was the 99 per cent who said they intend to stay and apply for citizenship, permitted after six years. There is, as yet, no sign of an influx of returnees to Hong Kong.
Half of BN(O) migrants jobless, but 99% do not plan to return to Hong Kong: poll
The survey showed they have generally settled in well, receiving a friendly reception. Eighty-five per cent said they like the area they live in.
Some quotes from the poll suggest a better work-life balance, more respect for personal time, cleaner air, green scenery, and less pressure on schoolchildren are appreciated.
But life in the UK is not a bed of roses. Finding a job is one of the biggest challenges. Only half of the migrants are in employment. Many are retired or looking after the home. Eighteen per cent consider themselves unemployed and 12 per cent are seeking work. But that is still much higher than the British unemployment rate of 4.3 per cent. .
Almost half of those in work have a job that either does not or barely matches their skills and qualifications. The migrants are well-educated, with 59 per cent holding degrees.
Some chose to take less skilled jobs to build confidence. Others opted for a career change. But the mismatch is a waste of talent and expertise. There is a need for this unfilled potential to be tapped.
A lack of confidence in speaking English was cited as a key barrier to finding suitable work, along with a failure to recognise Hong Kong qualifications. The appetite for English classes and career advice far outstrips the number receiving such support. These services should be stepped up or, at least, better promoted.
‘Potential waste’: just 30% of Hong Kong BN(O) migrants in UK working full-time
The BN(O) scheme has coincided with a cost of living crisis in the UK which took many migrants by surprise. Respondents said they were shocked by housing prices. More than 40 per cent revealed their financial position had worsened after moving.
Their biggest concern, therefore, is financial stress closely followed by anxiety over their future life in the UK. But Hong Kong issues still loom large.
The third biggest worry is for friends and family in the city, followed by concerns about the social and political climate in Hong Kong. Many are stressed about accessing their Hong Kong pensions. All concerned should work to ensure they receive their money. They need it.
Discrimination did not feature as prominently as might be expected, experienced by 5 per cent of those in work (still too high).
For all of the problems, 92 per cent of respondents rated their overall well-being at higher than 5/10.
Moving to another country inevitably involves risks and challenges but is often a rewarding experience in so many ways. I know this from my own move from Britain to Hong Kong in 1994 and return to the UK last year.
Whatever the politics, the BN(O) migrants deserve a fair chance to find happiness in their new home. The same applies to the many arrivals in Hong Kong under the city’s various talent schemes.
Hong Kong people, with their high education levels, common sense and strong spirit, are an asset wherever they may choose to work, whether at home or overseas. Britain should make the most of them.


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Hong Kong society

Poll reveals the complex human story of Hongkongers in the UK

Heathrow Airport, London. Photo: AFP

Hong Kong primary schools lost 19,280 pupils to UK emigration wave, making it hardest-hit among city’s education sector

UK Home Office data showed 19,280 children aged six to 11 were granted BN(O) visas. Photo: Sam Tsang

Britain has received 190,997 applications for BN(O) visas since the introduction of the bespoke scheme for Hongkongers, according to official data. Photo: Robert Ng

So Ping-fai, the acting chairman of the Subsidised Primary Schools Council, says the figures prove that primary schools have been hit hardest by the emigration wave. Photo: Xiaomei Chen

‘You have to adapt’: why Hongkongers living in UK feel move was worth it, despite less money and fewer friends

BN(O) holders starting over in the UK have struggled to find work matching their experience levels, but many refuse to live in Hong Kong again. Photo: Reuters

The British government has granted more than 166,000 visas through the scheme as of March this year. Photo: AP

Opinion

Comment

While their new life has not been a bed of roses almost all the BN(O) migrants say they intend to stay. Britain should make the most of them


While their new life has not been a bed of roses almost all the BN(O) migrants say they intend to stay. Britain should make the most of them.


My Take

British National (Overseas) passport

Expresses the views, ideas and conclusions of the author. (Eg. Enough of Crazy Rich Asians, think of crazy poor Hongkongers.)


Column

My Take | Poll reveals the complex human story of Hongkongers in the UK

While their new life has not been a bed of roses almost all the BN(O) migrants say they intend to stay. Britain should make the most of them