Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Wu Chi-wai has been granted permission to remain in the United Kingdom as a visitor for six months, his lawyer announced Tuesday. The decision allows Wu to reunite with his family in the UK after more than five years of imprisonment in Hong Kong.
Paul Harris, Wu's lawyer, confirmed that immigration authorities sent a letter to his legal team stating Wu's visitor status. Wu, the former chairman of Hong Kong's largest pro-democracy party, has been imprisoned since 2021. He was sentenced in 2024 to four years and five months for conspiracy to commit subversion, stemming from his involvement in an unofficial primary election.
Wu had been on a seven-day immigration bail in the UK since last week. His situation had raised concerns among human rights groups and Hong Kongers in both the UK and his home territory. He had expressed worry in a recent interview that his stay might be cut short, as UK border authorities suspected he had intentions beyond a short visit, potentially seeking long-term residency. Wu also feared that an immigration record could impede future visits to his family in the UK.
The Home Office confirmed Monday that Wu would not be removed on Wednesday and has been granted permission to enter the UK. Wu himself declined to comment on the development.