Biometric residence permits (BRPs) guidance for all non-British citizens

A biometric residence permit (BRP) is a form of identity for non-British citizens. It indicates the expiry date of the holder’s leave to remain and whether he/she has the right to stay, work or study in the UK.  This card can be used as a form of identification, which is compulsory to show it together with passport at the border when travelling outside or returning to the UK. All applicants are required to give their biometrics apart from those under the age of five. The biometric data includes fingerprints and a digital photograph, but applicants who are under six are only asked to provide a photograph.

Significantly, a BRP confirms holder’s right to work or be self-employed in the UK. Employers have a responsibility to check the entitlement of prospective employees to work in the UK. Therefore, migrants who are eligible to work in the UK are strongly encouraged to collect their BRP before they start working. If not, employee can also show the short validity vignette in the passport to prove their eligibility to work and then collect their BRP before the expiration day of the vignette. Other restrictions such as police registration will also be placed on certain nationalities. Failure to comply with any of these restrictions may result in prosecution and/or removal from the UK.

If you are currently concerned about your UK visa application and wish to contact us for advice, please email us at [email protected].

The content of this article is for general use and information only. Since each case should be prepared on its own merit and in light of the constant amendments to the Immigration Rules, it is important to note that the information provided must not be relied upon unless Migra & Co has either given written consent or has been officially engaged in relation to a specific immigration matter. As a result, Migra & Co will take no responsibility for any damage, cost or loss resulting from relying on the information contained in this article, blog and website.