Millions of Hongkongers will be able to begin applying to live and work in the UK when a historic immigration scheme for British National Overseas citizens finally opens its doors on Sunday.

On Friday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson hailed the scheme, which offers a route to British citizenship, saying it honoured the UK’s commitment to its former citizens.

“I am immensely proud that we have brought in this new route for Hong Kong BN(O)s to live, work and make their home in our country,” Johnson said.

“In doing so we have honoured our profound ties of history and friendship with the people of Hong Kong, and we have stood up for freedom and autonomy – values both the UK and Hong Kong hold dear.”

Over 1m people could come to UK from Hong Kong within five years – official estimate

Under the scheme, the UK estimates nearly three million Hongkongers and their dependents will be eligible to move to Britain for five years and apply for full citizenship.