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The Herald Scotland
3 days ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Scotland's Hong Kong community thriving despite China fears
Chan (not his real name) is one of those involved in the running of the market. He tells The Herald: "Our community was established three years ago, a lot of Hong Kong people moved to Scotland and the UK because of the political situation. 'The oppression is still going on so there are still a lot of people moving here. Read More: 'Three or four years ago we had some volunteers who gave us the idea to set up a community for our own people and think about how we could contribute to the city and how to integrate into this country. 'We started from zero. One day I spoke to a manager at the Barras and we had the idea to do a Hong Kong market, and that's where it all started. This is the third year we've done. "We have lots of authentic street food, stuff you can't even imagine. Most of the traders make homemade food, it's not something you can find in the restaurant. "We also have traditional Hong Kong crafts, an exhibition on connections to Scotland, workshops where people can learn traditional Chinese calligraphy and also some cultural exchange workshops and a kung fu performance and Hong Kong music." As of the 2021 census the population of Scotland born in Hong Kong was just under 12,000 but the data was collected less than two months after a new visa scheme was introduced. Following the introduction of a new national security law by the Chinese government, British National (Overseas) residents and their dependents can apply for a renewable five-year visa. This year the first wave of Hong Kongers who arrived under the scheme will be eligible to apply for permanent residency. The Hong Kong market in Glasgow (Image: Gordon Terris) Lok Pui Lo tells The Herald: "When I first arrived here four-and-a-half years ago it was Covid times so there wasn't a lot of community. 'In the last one or two years there have been a lot of organisations set up by people from Hong Kong like the badminton club, events specifically for Hong Kong people, the New Year market "Before we get the permanent residency we're still immigrants who don't have a home. If we aren't granted the indefinite leave to remain that means we could be sent back to Hong Kong at any time. 'It's proof that I'm a UK citizen, finally, and I won't have to go back to Hong Kong if things don't work out.' The fear of going back to Hong Kong is a real one. In 2019 a proposed bill which would have allowed for the extradition of accused criminals to other territories, including mainland China. Its introduction came after a 19-year-old Hong Kong resident, Chan Tong-kai, murdered his pregnant girlfriend in Taiwan and flew back to Hong Kong. He admitted to the authorities that he had killed her, but he could not be tried for her murder as it happened in Taiwan, and could not be extradited due to Hong Kong's status as a 'special administrative region' of China since it was handed over by the British in 1997. Hong Kong had no extradition agreements with mainland China as a safeguard to its separate legal system, and could not do a treaty with Taiwan as Beijing does not recognise it. When the bill was proposed critics immediately raised fears it could be used to arrest political dissidents, with the largest in the history of Hong Kong erupting. Protests in Hong Kong The bill was eventually withdrawn on October 23, 2019 but in June the following year a new national security law was passed criminalising "separatism, subversion, terrorism and foreign interference", punishable up to life in prison, which many feared would lead to a crackdown on civil liberties. In response the British government offered the visa programme to those at risk. The reach of the Chinese Communist Party is long though, with Amnesty International reporting that students studying abroad are harassed and subject to surveillance to prevent them engaging with "sensitive" issues while overseas. In 2022 a human rights group alleged the CCP was running a secret police station at the Loon Fung restaurant in Glasgow, though Police Scotland found no evidence of any criminality. Safeguard Defenders said the Chinese government was using a network of such offices to intimidate dissidents and criminal suspects and try to pressure them into returning to China. The group's report said 'persuasion to return' involved techniques such as refusing to renew passports; surveillance or punishment of family back in China; or direct threats, surveillance and harassment by undercover agents, embassy and consulate staff, and secret police. Officially all the police stations were shut down in 2023, but the Hong Kong community feels the eyes of Beijing at all times. Chan says: "This is something very real for us, it's something we fear every day. "We see news from Hong Kong and we still see the government arresting people when they arrive there. Three months ago there was a girl who posted something on Facebook when she was living in Japan, she went back to Hong Kong to visit her family and the police arrested her at the airport. 'This tension is always there in our community, the tension hasn't left us even since we moved to this country. 'The long-armed repression is something very real, especially in Glasgow where we know secret police stations are being run in Chinese restaurants. Police Scotland have said they can't find any evidence but to run something like that you don't need any paperwork, all you need is a back room. 'Even when I'm speaking with you, I said going into the interview that I don't want to disclose my identity, and that's for the same reason. "It's a very broad law, and after it passed they did arrest a lot of people. 'That's why as an organisation we always keep a very low profile and are very careful about what we're doing, and a lot of organisations have been silenced. 'A lot of us have family who still live in Hong Kong, so even when we're just making a market like this we are very careful. 'There are a lot of Chinese students who study here and we are sure that not all of them are students. We're being monitored, that is something that is undeniable for us. 'This fear still exists even living in this country.' The Hong Kong market in Glasgow (Image: Gordon Terris) The Hong Konger community may be small but it's growing, and keen to become a firm part of Scotland's cultural milieu. Chan says: "When we started our community we started to research some of the links between Scotland and Hong Kong and we found there's a big historical relationship. 'Three governors of Hong Kong were Scottish and one of the most well-regarded governors of Hong Kong, David Wilson, has the longest footpath in the country named after him. 'We tried to dig out the history and we've made an exhibition that we'll show at the Hong Kong market. 'We want local people to understand that we are moving here but we're not coming to claim benefits we're coming to integrate in this country. The Hong Kong market is a chance to show that too. "We welcome everyone, and the most important thing is that we want to help local people understand why we're here and what we're doing. 'In the exhibition we have a small part where we interview some of the Hong Kong people about what they've been doing since they moved to this country: what have they contributed, what have they established? 'One of the interviewees started a bicycle charity, and that's the kind of thing we want to show especially since immigration has been such a hot topic recently. 'We want to break the bias against immigrants.'
The Star
18-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Get a second job? Stick it out? Hongkongers on BN(O) visas rue rule changes
Some Hongkongers who moved to the UK under a bespoke migration pathway have said the country's push to tighten immigration controls could prompt them to find a second job, while others fear they will need to pay another upfront healthcare fee or wait an additional five years to access their pension money. They were voicing their worries over the impact of the British government's newly released white paper, which outlined plans to tighten the controls. The measures included lengthening the settlement qualifying period to up to 10 years based on economic and societal contributions, instead of granting residency status automatically after five years as is currently the case. Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team. Visa applicants and their adult dependants would also be required to take English tests. Television producer Matt Cheung is one of those awaiting further details on whether British National (Overseas) visa holders would be affected. He relocated to the town of Warrington, situated between Liverpool and Manchester, in 2022 with his wife and now six-year-old twin daughters under the scheme. The 43-year-old said the biggest impact would be having to pay another upfront, five-year fee to the National Health Service (NHS). 'We already paid a five-year [NHS] fee for the family before we moved here. Another five-year payment will be a burden for us,' Cheung said. He estimated the family would have to pay an upfront bill of £18,110 (US$23,930), or about HK$186,400, based on the annual rate of £1,035 per adult and £776 per child. Cheung's family is among the more than 200,000 Hongkongers who have been granted visas under the BN(O) pathway as of March this year. The United Kingdom launched the scheme for Hongkongers in January 2021 in response to the introduction of the Beijing-decreed national security law. Under current immigration rules, successful applicants and their dependants can live, work and study in Britain, with the option to apply for permanent residency after staying in the UK for five years, followed by citizenship a year after. 'I won't say the UK has betrayed us as it initially gave us this pathway to emigrate,' Cheung said. 'The girls are in primary school now, and we've even bought a house for £400,000. It will be our forever home. So, whatever changes they make to the immigration rules, we're pretty much stuck with it.' The British Home Office on Tuesday did not give a clear answer on whether Hong Kong's BN(O) passport holders who had migrated or planned to move to the UK under the bespoke pathway would be affected by the Labour Party's plans to tighten its immigration policies. A spokeswoman only told the Post that Britain remained committed to the 'humanitarian route' of the BN(O) scheme, despite announcing plans to cut migration to Britain, adding more details were 'going to be available in due course'. Car salesman turned factory worker Wong Kin swapped Hong Kong for Sandbach, located south of Manchester, in 2022 when he, his wife and young daughters moved under the bespoke pathway. He said they were determined to stay as they had bought a £300,000 four-bedroom home in the same year. 'My girls are healthy and happy to study here, and that's all it matters,' he said. Wong, who works as a delivery rider by night, said the potential lengthening of their settlement period would add to uncertainties about the future that were already exacerbated by the poor economic situation. 'Because my wife is at home with the girls, I'm considering getting another job to ensure financial security given the very unpredictable economic situation,' he said. The tightening of the settlement rules could also delay when the couple could access the about HK$1 million (US$128,360) sitting in their Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) accounts in Hong Kong, but Wong said there was nothing he could do about it. Willis Fu Yiu-wai, the immigration director at Hong Kong's Goldmax Associates, said the possible 10-year settled status would significantly affect individuals seeking to withdraw their MPF money, as simply holding a BN(O) visa did not permit them to do so. 'The process of BN(O) visa holders involves obtaining settled status after five years, followed by the possibility of citizenship. That settled status would unequivocally allow one to claim their MPF,' Fu said. He also doubted whether British authorities would deport BN(O) visa holders if they did not meet the economic contribution requirements suggested in the white paper. 'Should the UK proceed with the new plan on BN(O) visa holders, I believe people who have not met the requirements are likely to be given a bridging status, allowing them to stay and continue meeting the necessary criteria,' Fu said. 'I doubt they would be so unforgiving as to simply deport them outright.' More from South China Morning Post: For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2025.
Time Business News
15-05-2025
- Time Business News
How to Apply for a British Passport: A Comprehensive Guide
Applying for a British passport is an essential step for anyone looking to travel internationally or establish their identity formally. Whether you're applying for the first time or renewing an existing passport, understanding the process can simplify your experience. In this guide, we'll explore the steps involved in applying for a British passport, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to identify fake documents, including fake drivers licenses and passports. 1. Eligibility Requirements Before you begin your application, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. You must be a British citizen, a British Overseas Territories citizen, or a British National (Overseas). If you're unsure about your status, check with the official UK government resources. 2. Collect Necessary Documents Your British passport application will require several documents, including: Proof of Identity : This can be your birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or a previous passport. : This can be your birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or a previous passport. Photographs : You'll need at least two recent passport-sized photos that meet the official guidelines. : You'll need at least two recent passport-sized photos that meet the official guidelines. Payment Information: Have your debit or credit card ready for the application fee. 3. Choose Your Application Method You can apply for a British passport online or via a paper application form. The online method is generally quicker and more efficient. To apply online, visit the official UK government website and create an account. If you prefer a paper application, you can download the form or request one from the relevant authorities. 4. Fill Out the Application Form When completing the application form, ensure all information is accurate and matches the documents you are submitting. Any discrepancies could lead to delays or rejection. Take your time to verify all entries, especially your name, date of birth, and address. 5. Submit Your Application Once you've completed the form and gathered your documents, submit your application. If you're applying online, follow the prompts to upload your documents. For paper applications, send your completed form and supporting documents to the address specified on the form. 6. Track Your Application After submission, you can track your application status online. This feature is available for online applications and can give you peace of mind as you await your passport. Incomplete Applications : Ensure you provide all requested information and documents. Missing items can delay processing. : Ensure you provide all requested information and documents. Missing items can delay processing. Incorrect Photos : Follow the guidelines strictly when preparing your passport photos. Non-compliance can result in rejection. : Follow the guidelines strictly when preparing your passport photos. Non-compliance can result in rejection. Fakes and Fraud: Be aware of the risks associated with fake documents. If you're unsure about the authenticity of your ID or supporting documents, seek advice from professionals. As you navigate the passport application process, it's crucial to be able to identify fake documents, including fake drivers licenses and passports. Here are some tips to help you discern authenticity: 1. Examine the Material Genuine IDs and passports are made from high-quality materials. If the document feels flimsy or has a paper-like texture, it may be counterfeit. Authentic documents have a certain weight and durability. 2. Check Security Features Most official IDs and passports include various security features such as holograms, watermarks, and microprinting. Familiarize yourself with what these features look like on a genuine British passport or drivers license. For instance, authentic passports have holographic images that change when viewed from different angles. 3. Inspect the Print Quality Real documents have crisp, clear text and images. If you notice any blurriness, smudging, or inconsistencies in the font, it could indicate that the document is fake. 4. Use UV Light Many authentic documents contain features that are only visible under ultraviolet light. If you have access to a UV light source, use it to check for hidden markings or patterns that are characteristic of real IDs and passports. 5. Verify Information If you suspect a document might be fake, you can verify the information against official databases. For example, contact the relevant authorities to check the validity of a drivers license or passport. Applying for a British passport is a straightforward process if you understand the requirements and steps involved. By gathering the necessary documents, choosing the right application method, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can successfully navigate the application process. Additionally, being able to identify fake drivers licenses and passports is essential in today's world. By knowing what to look for, you can protect yourself and others from potential fraud. Whether you're traveling for leisure or need to establish your identity, a British passport is a valuable asset. Follow this guide to ensure a smooth application process and stay vigilant against counterfeit documents. For more information, always refer to the official UK government website for the latest updates and resources. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
South China Morning Post
14-03-2025
- South China Morning Post
Hong Kong BN(O) passport holders exempt from needing ETA to travel to UK
Hongkongers holding British National (Overseas) passports no longer need to obtain an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) document before travelling to the United Kingdom. Advertisement The UK government updated its website on Thursday to reflect the development, expanding the original exemption that applied to BN(O) visa holders. The change came after migration and citizenship minister Seema Malhotra confirmed the decision in a letter to a member of the parliament last week. She wrote that the decision was based on the fact that the BN(O) passport is issued by the UK, thereby providing a greater level of assurance to the identity of the holder. Malhotra added the move had been made on the basis of the close ties that the BN(O) community has with the UK and the historical commitments made to them. Advertisement Since January, non-European nationals who do not need a visa for short stays in the UK have had to obtain an ETA before arrival. This included Hongkongers who were BN(O) passport holders but did not have a visa.
South China Morning Post
06-03-2025
- Politics
- South China Morning Post
UK exempts Hong Kong BN(O) passport holders from needing ETA ahead of travel
Hongkongers holding British National (Overseas) passports will no longer need to obtain an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) document before heading to the United Kingdom, with London expanding the original exemption that applied to BN(O) visa holders. Advertisement The development came to light in a letter by the migration and citizenship minister, Seema Malhotra, who said BN(O) passport holders would no longer need an ETA to travel to the UK, after the government had 'listened to evidence'. 'This decision has been made on the basis of the close ties that the BN(O) community has with the UK, the historical commitments made to them and, critically, the fact that just like for British citizens with passports, it is the UK issuing their travel documents,' she said in a letter to David Alton, a member of the House of Lords, dated March 3. She added that as the UK had issued the BN(O) passport it had a 'higher degree of certainty' of the identity of an individual. BN(O) passport holders will not need an ETA to enter the UK. Photo: Fung Chang Malhotra said the Home Office would amend the immigration rules 'at the earliest opportunity' and the exemption would be kept under review in case there was any evidence of it being abused.
