A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is an official document issued by the UK Home Office to individuals who have been granted permission to stay in the UK for more than six months. It serves as proof of identity, immigration status, right to work or study, and access to public services.
This guide provides detailed information about BRPs, including who needs one, how to apply, where to collect it, and what to do if your BRP is lost, stolen, or expired.
For the latest official guidelines, refer to the UK government’s page on Biometric Residence Permits.
What is a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)?
A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a secure identity document that contains:
- Full name, date of birth, and nationality
- Immigration status and visa type
- Visa expiry date and any conditions of stay
- Work and study rights
- Photograph and fingerprints (biometric data)
The BRP replaces visa stickers (vignettes) in passports and is now the primary document for proving UK immigration status.
For more details, visit the official BRP overview page.
Who Needs a Biometric Residence Permit?
You must have a BRP if you:
- Apply to stay in the UK for more than six months
- Extend an existing visa or switch visa categories
- Transfer your visa to a new passport
- Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
- Replace a lost, stolen, or damaged BRP
If you apply for a UK visa from outside the UK, you will initially receive a 30- or 90-day entry clearance vignette in your passport. After arriving in the UK, you must collect your BRP within 10 days.
Check the official BRP eligibility page for full details.
How to Apply for a Biometric Residence Permit
Applying from Outside the UK
If applying for a UK visa from abroad, follow these steps:
- Submit your visa application via UK Visas and Immigration.
- Schedule and attend a biometric appointment at your local UK visa application centre.
- Receive a decision letter confirming your visa approval.
- Collect your passport with a temporary visa vignette (valid for 30 or 90 days).
- Enter the UK and collect your BRP within 10 days from the designated location.
Applying from Inside the UK
If extending or switching your visa while in the UK:
- Submit your online application through UK Visas and Immigration.
- Book an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
- Attend your biometric appointment (provide fingerprints and a photograph).
- Wait for your visa decision (processing takes around 8 weeks for standard applications).
- Receive your BRP by post within 7-10 working days after approval.
How and Where to Collect Your BRP
When applying from overseas, your visa decision letter will confirm where you need to collect your BRP. Common collection points include:
- A Post Office branch near your UK address
- Your sponsoring organisation (if you are a student or employee)
To collect your BRP, bring:
- Your passport with the entry clearance vignette
- Your visa decision letter
If you cannot collect your BRP within 10 days, you must notify the Home Office immediately.
Lost, Stolen, or Damaged BRP: What to Do?
If your BRP is lost, stolen, or damaged:
- Report it immediately to the Home Office online.
- Apply for a replacement BRP within three months via the BRP replacement service.
- Pay the replacement fee (£56 within the UK; fees may vary if applying from abroad).
If your BRP is lost while outside the UK, apply for a "replacement BRP visa" to re-enter the UK before requesting a new BRP.
BRP Expiry and Renewal Process
Your BRP will typically expire on the same date as your visa. Before your BRP expires, you must:
- Extend your visa if eligible (extend your visa).
- Apply for settlement (ILR) if you qualify (apply for ILR).
- Leave the UK before your BRP and visa expire.
Start your renewal or extension process at least 28 days before expiration to ensure continuous legal status.
Common BRP Issues and How to Resolve Them
- Incorrect details on your BRP: Contact the Home Office immediately to request a correction.
- BRP not received after visa approval: Inform UKVI via BRP delivery problems.
- Unable to collect your BRP on time: Notify the Home Office through the BRP collection service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I travel outside the UK without my BRP?
No. You need your BRP to re-enter the UK. If your BRP is lost abroad, apply for a replacement BRP visa before returning.
How long does a BRP application take?
A standard BRP application within the UK takes 8 weeks. Faster services (priority or super-priority) are available for an additional fee. Check BRP processing times for details.
Can someone else collect my BRP?
Yes, but you must nominate someone through the Home Office and get approval. Find out more about BRP collection.
Conclusion
A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is essential for proving your immigration status in the UK. Understanding the BRP application, collection, and renewal process helps ensure compliance with UK immigration laws and avoids complications.
If you lose your BRP or need to renew it, always follow official Home Office procedures to prevent legal issues.
For up-to-date information, refer to the official UK government’s BRP page.
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