Study or work in the UK as a British National (Overseas) or Irish national
Updated on: 29 May 2024
Understand the immigration rules that apply to British Nationals (Overseas) and Irish nationals who want to live, work or study in the UK.
British National (Overseas)
If you have a British National (Overseas) passport you are still subject to immigration rules and require a British National (Overseas) visa to live, work and study in the UK.
Find out if you would be eligible for a British National (Overseas) visa, also known as a BNO visa.
Typically, BNO visa holders cannot access public funds but may be able to access some benefits depending on their circumstances.
You can apply to stay in the UK for either:
- two years and six months
- five years.
If you are studying a subject that requires Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance, you will need to apply for an ATAS certificate.
Do not travel to the UK to study until you have been granted your BNO visa. You do not need a BNO passport to travel to the UK. You can use any valid passport or travel document.
See what documents you'll need to apply for a BNO visa.
The University’s Student Immigration Service cannot provide immigration advice on this route.
Irish nationals
Irish nationals have a special status in the UK and are not impacted by Brexit.
If you are an Irish national, your rights in the UK are protected under the Common Travel Area arrangements. This special status means you are treated as being settled in the UK from the day you arrive. You will not need a visa to study in the UK.
According to UK government law, Irish people (existing residents or future migrants) have a general right to live in the United Kingdom and this is entirely separate to their rights as European Union (EU) citizens.
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