Biometric Residence Permit Guide 2024

Under current UK rules, certain foreign nationals are required to have a biometric residence permit (BRP) as proof of their UK immigration status.

BRPs are issued following visa approval, and do not have to be applied for separately. However, specific rules apply which BRP holders must adhere to, including what to do if your BRP is lost, damaged or if the information is incorrect or out of date.

In this guide, we explain what a BRP is, who needs one, how to get one, how they are used and your obligations as a BRP holder.

We also update on important upcoming changes impacting Biometric Residence Permits. BRPs are now being issued with an expiry date of 31 December 2024, regardless of the individual’s period of leave, and from 1 January 2025, the Home Office will no longer issue BRPs. Instead, visa holders are to rely on their eVisa digital status.

 

Section A: Overview of the Biometric Residence Permit

 

As the holder of a BRP, you can prove your identity safely and quickly, when required, and provide official proof of your lawful status in the UK.

 

1. What is a BRP?

 

Those applying for a UK visa for more than 6 months will be required to enrol their biometrics as part of the application process. Biometrics refer to information about an individual’s external physical characteristics, including a digital facial photograph and a digital fingerprint scan. This information is then used in a biometric residence permit (BRP).

A BRP is a physical polycarbonate card issued by the Home Office containing both the holder’s biometric information and immigration status in a tamperproof embedded chip. The permit has a unique document number.

The BRP is designed to provide a secure and easily verified proof of identity and a person’s permission to be in the UK.

If you refuse to give your biometric information, your immigration application will be rejected or if you are already in the UK, it could lead to your deportation.

The biometric residence permit can be used to confirm your immigration status in the UK, as well as your right to any public services or benefits you may be entitled to. It can also be used as a form of identification, for example, if you wish to open a UK bank account.

As a foreign national in the UK, the BRP will provide you with both a reliable form of identification and evidence of your immigration status. The BRP also confirms your right to claim for any public services or benefits that you may be eligible for.

Recent changes, however, mean that BRPs can no longer be used as proof of the right to work or the right to rent.

 

2. What Information is on a BRP?

 

When a document is referred to as biometric, it means it has embedded information in it that can be used to authenticate the identity of the holder.

The BRP is a small card, similar to a UK driver’s licence, that holds your biographic details, including your name, gender, nationality, date and place of birth. It will also include a scan of your fingerprints, a digital image of your face, a digital copy of your signature and – depending on when it was issued – in some cases, your national insurance number.

The card will also detail your UK immigration status, stating the date when your leave expires, as well as any other restrictions placed on your leave to remain in the UK and any entitlements you have been granted, such as benefits.

There are also a number of security features on the card. Made from polycarbonate material and containing an electronic chip to make it more secure against forgery, the BRP is designed to combat illegal working and reduce illegal immigration.

 

3. Why are BRPs Used?

 

Introduced in 2008 as part of a broader modernisation of UK border controls, the BRP replaced older forms of documentation and became the standard means for non-EEA nationals to evidence their right to reside in the UK for an extended period.

They are designed to provide an easy way of reliably identifying a foreign national, and to help combat illegal working, reduce illegal immigration to the UK and prevent criminal activities such as identity fraud.

 

4. How long are BRPs valid for?

 

BRPs were previously valid for the duration of a person’s limited leave, or for up to a maximum of 10 years, or 5 years if under 16.

However, BRPs are in the process of being incrementally replaced, where the Home Office aims to phase out physical documents before the end of 2024.

For this reason, all newly issued BRPs are being endorsed with an expiry date of 31 December 2024, even where the individual’s permission to enter or remain in the UK has been granted beyond this date.

 

Section B: BRPs Expiring 31 December 2024

 

All UK BRPs are set to expire on 31 December 2024, to be replaced by the digital eVisa system. This expiry date refers to the document only, and not to the holder’s underlying immigration status.

The Home Office has confirmed that it will no longer be issuing new physical BRPs from this autumn. From 1 January 2025, you will be able to

BRP holders are required to set up an online eVisa account with UKVI, which they will use to prove their UK immigration status online without needing a BRP.

BRP holders who have not been contacted directly by the Home Office to set up their eVisa account are being advised to visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/online-immigration-status-evisa to find out what they need to do to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa.

 

Read more about the transition from BRPs to eVisa here >> 

 

Section C: Eligibility Criteria for a BRP

 

Not everyone needs or will be issued a BRP. Whether you’re planning to move to the UK, extend your stay, or adjust your immigration status, it’s crucial to be aware of the specific requirements and exceptions that apply.

 

1. Who Needs a BRP in the UK?

 

You will receive a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) in the following circumstances:

 

a. If you apply to stay in the UK for more than six months: Those entering the UK for long-term purposes, such as work, study, or family reunion, who receive a visa valid for longer than six months are required to obtain a BRP.

b. If you extend your visa to a period exceeding six months: Individuals already in the UK who wish to extend their stay must obtain a BRP as part of the application process.

c. If you make an application for settlement in the UK: Those applying for indefinite leave to remain or settled status in the UK must have a BRP to demonstrate their immigration status.

d. If you transfer your existing visa to a new passport: A new Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) will be needed to reflect this change.

e. If you apply for specific travel documents issued by the Home Office: If you apply for specific travel documents issued by the Home Office, such as a Certificate of Travel or a Stateless Person’s Document, you will be eligible to receive a BRP.

 

2. Do Children Need a BRP?

 

Children, as well as adults, are required to have their own BRPs if they fall under these categories.

Applicants under the age of 18 are still required to provide biometric information, although the nature of this information will depend on their age bracket. Further, any child under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or someone aged 18 or over who has legal responsibility for them.

Under 16’s will be required to provide a scan of their fingerprints and a photograph of their face, but they will not need to give a signature. If the child is under the age of 6 they will not need to give their fingerprints either.

For those aged 16 and over, they will need to provide the same biometric information as an adult, namely a scan of their fingerprints, a digital photograph of their face and a signature.

 

3. Specific Rules and Exceptions

 

While BRPs are broadly required across the above categories, there are specific scenarios and exceptions to these rules:

 

a. Short-term Visits: Visitors coming to the UK for less than six months, such as tourists and short-term business visitors, do not require a BRP.

b. EEA Nationals Pre-Brexit: EEA nationals who were residing in the UK before the end of the Brexit transition period are not required to hold a BRP. Instead, they should apply under the EU Settlement Scheme and receive a digital confirmation of their status.

c. Diplomatic Staff: Diplomats and certain official government staff may be exempt from requiring a BRP due to their diplomatic immunities and privileges.

d. Exceptions for Age: Children under the age of six do not provide fingerprints but are still required to have a BRP issued under their name, detailing their residency rights and identity.

 

4. When you cannot get a BRP

 

You will not be able to get a BRP if you used the UK Immigration: ID Check app when applying to remain in the UK. In these circumstances, you can only prove your immigration status online.

 

5. I have ILR, do I need a BRP?

 

If you have permission from the Home Office to settle in the UK, known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’ (ILR), you can apply to transfer your ILR to a BRP by making a No Time Limits (NTL) application where:

 

a. You do not have documentary evidence of your ILR

b. You have lost your passport containing your ILR endorsement, or it has been stolen or expired.

c. You have changed your identity.

There are many reasons why ILR holders opt to apply for the BRP. The permit allows for easier travel into the country as proof of indefinite status; it offers recognisable documentary evidence of the right to access public benefits; and it is a more secure document with enhanced counter-fraud features compared with passport vignettes.

To be eligible for the NTL application, you will need to show you have valid ILR, that this status has not been lost through absence and that you continue to be eligible for ILR.

There is no restriction on when you can or should make an NTL application, provided your ILR status is valid.

Applications for NTL must be made in the UK using the NTL application form and require a fee. The application form must be completed online, and you will need to have your biometrics taken (fingerprints and photo).

You should receive a decision within 6 months of attending your UKVCAS appointment.

If you need a BRP sooner, you can select a priority service, but you will have to pay an extra £800. With the priority service, you will receive a decision by the end of the day if you have an appointment on a weekday or 2 working days after a weekend appointment.

 

Section D: Using Your BRP in Daily Life

 

While BRPs remain in use, they offer foreign nationals in the UK a secure and standardised way to verify certain information to enable them to carry out their everyday lives without being denied their rights and entitlements.

 

1. How You Can Use Your BRP

 

BRPs can be used in various aspects of daily life, such as proof of identity, immigration status, and entitlements.

You can also use the BRP to access healthcare services, open a UK bank account, and to enrol in education courses:

 

a. Accessing Healthcare: The BRP must be presented to access NHS services, proving that you have paid the health surcharge or are exempt from it.

b. Banking Services: Opening a bank account in the UK typically requires a BRP as proof of identity and residency.

c. Education: Educational institutions may require a BRP to confirm your immigration status and eligibility for study.

d. Travel: You are not required to carry your BRP at all times, but you must show this with your passport at the UK border if required, when travelling in and out of the UK.

e. Accessing Benefits: If you are entitled to public benefits in the UK, these will be stated on the BRP.

 

2. When You Cannot Rely on a BRP

 

BRPs can no longer be used to prove your right to work in the UK. They have been removed from the list of acceptable documents that can be used by employers to conduct a manual right to work check.

Instead of the BRP, to prove the right to work, you will need to use the Home Office online service with the share code provided by the individual.

The same applies to the right to rent; landlords in England can no longer accept physical BRP cards. Instead, tenants with BRPs must use a share code.

 

3. Limitations of the BRP

 

While a BRP provides numerous rights, there are also certain limitations:

 

a. Travel: The BRP allows re-entry into the UK but it is not a substitute for a visa to visit other countries; travel visas may still be required depending on the destination.

b. Expiration: Rights are only valid until the expiration date on the BRP. Extensions or renewals must be applied for if the holder wishes to stay beyond this date.

c. Work and Study Restrictions: Some BRPs come with specific conditions, such as no access to public funds or limits on the type of employment or hours one can work.

d. Reporting Changes: Any change in circumstances, such as a change of address, marital status, or passport details, must be reported to the Home Office.

 

Section E: How to Get a BRP

 

You do not have to apply separately for a biometric residence permit. Registering your biometric information forms part of the application process for a visa of more than 6 months. You will be issued a BRP automatically if your visa or immigration application is approved, or you are replacing an older document.

 

1. How to Enrol Biometrics

 

You will be informed by the Home Office when you make your visa application whether you will be required to enrol your biometrics, namely, a scan of your fingerprints and a digital photograph of your face. You will also need to provide your signature.

You should also be notified of where this should be done, typically either at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point or a Service and Support Centre (SSC), depending on whether you are making your application from within or outside the UK.

The process is quick, taking between 5-10 minutes and does not involve any ink or mess. You will be asked to provide a digital facial image and your fingerprints.

You will also not need to take off your head covering if you wear one for either religious or medical reasons.

Your biometric information will be stored on a UK government database and managed in accordance with UK data protection laws.

If a person is physically unable to provide biometric information – for example, if they have a disability or have no fingers or hands – this will be recorded on the database.

Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, although a child under the age of 5 does not need to give their fingerprints when they apply.

 

2. Applying for a BRP from within the UK

 

If you are making an in-county application, you will either go to a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point, a service and support centre or a post office branch. There will be a fee of £19.20 payable to submit your biometrics.

Once issued, your BRP will be sent to the postal address you gave in your application form.

Your BRP should arrive within 10 working days of getting your Home Office decision letter saying that you can stay in the UK. However, it may take longer for your BRP to arrive if this is being delivered to either the Isle of Man, Isles of Scilly or the Scottish Highlands or islands.

You will get a text and/or email from the delivery company (TNT) notifying you when your BRP is due to arrive and how to change the delivery date/time.

Someone aged 18 or over must be present at the delivery address to receive your BRP, where they will need proof of their identity, such as a driving licence or passport.

 

3. Applying for a BRP from outside the UK

 

If you are applying from outside the UK, you will be asked to go to a visa application centre. The cost to submit your biometrics will already be included in your application fee.

Having provided your biometrics at a VAC, you will be required to collect your BRP once you are in the UK. You must usually do this before the expiry of the vignette sticker in your travel document or within 10 days of arriving in the UK, whichever is later.

You should check your decision letter, as this will tell you to collect your BRP from either a named Post Office branch or your sponsor, if you chose this option.

When collecting your BRP, you will need to bring in your passport with your vignette sticker. You will get your sticker when your visa application is approved. You can opt to pick up your BRP from a different branch, but you will need to arrange this at the Post Office branch you want to use and pay a fee, provided the branch you want to use offers a BRP collection service.

You can nominate somebody else to collect your BRP, but only if you have a serious illness or disability preventing you from collecting it in person, where the Home Office may email you for evidence of this, such as a doctor’s letter. Your nominated person will not be allowed to collect your BRP if you cannot show proof if asked. The nominated person collecting your BRP must also provide your passport to show that you have entered the UK. Having nominated a person using the online link at GOV.UK, you will be notified within 5 working days if that person has been approved to collect your BRP.

You must also be nominated to collect a child’s BRP, even if you are the child’s parent or legal guardian, unless you are named on their vignette sticker and also collecting your own BRP at the same time. Having made an online request to collect their BRP, where needed, the Home Office will tell you within 5 working days if you have been approved to do this.

 

4. BRP Fee

 

If you apply for a visa from outside the UK, the cost of enrolling your biometrics at a VAC appointment will be included in your visa application fee.

If applying from within the UK, in addition to your visa application fee, you may need to pay £19.20 to give your biometrics or to re-use this information if you have provided it before. You will be told if you need to pay this fee when you apply to extend your stay or switch to a different visa from within the UK.

 

5. BRP Processing Times

 

If you applied from inside the UK, your permit will be sent to you by courier to the address you gave in your application, within 7 to 10 days of getting your decision letter from the Home Office saying that you can remain in the UK.

If you applied from outside the UK, you will need to collect your biometric residence permit once you are in the UK. You must do this before the vignette sticker in your travel document expires or within 10 days of arriving in the UK, whichever is later.

You will be told in your decision letter where to collect the permit from, either a named post office branch or your sponsor if you choose this option when you apply. Failure to collect your BRP or to collect within the specified timeframe could result in a fine of up to £1,000.

You must be aged 18 or over to collect a biometric residence permit. You must also be nominated to collect a child’s permit, even if you’re the child’s parent.

 

6. Problems with BRP Delivery

 

You should contact TNT, the delivery company, if your BRP has not arrived within 10 working days of receiving your Home Office decision letter. You will need the postcode of the address you gave in your visa application and the 9-number consignment number that can be found in emails from TNT and the Home Office BRP courier team.

If you missed the BRP delivery, you should contact TNT to arrange re-delivery within 30 days, or it will be returned to the Home Office. However, if you do not have a consignment number, TNT is unable to help with your query, or it has been more than 30 days since the delivery was missed, you will need to tell the Home Office that your BRP has not arrived. If your BRP is being delivered to the Isle of Man, Isles of Scilly, or the Scottish Highlands or islands, your delivery will be arranged by TNT but carried out by Royal Mail. To track your BRP delivery, contact TNT to get the Royal Mail tracking number.

You can contact the Home Office about your BRP if your decision letter saying that you can remain in the UK arrived more than 10 working days ago. However, you should only contact the Home Office if any of the following apply:

 

a. you have not got a consignment number to track your delivery with the delivery company

b. you have already contacted the delivery company, and they were not able to help you

c. you missed the delivery of your BRP more than 30 days ago.

 

You can contact the Home Office using its online form. You will need to provide your full name, date of birth and nationality, together with an email or postal address. You will also need your decision letter. The Home Office will email you to advise you on what to do next, and you will usually get a response within 5 working days, although this will take longer if you do not give an email address.

You must not use this service if delivery has been attempted and you were left a card, or sent a text message or email. In these circumstances, you should contact the delivery company to rearrange delivery.

 

Section F: Updating your BRP

 

You will need to report any problems within 10 days of receipt of your new BRP, or you may have to pay for a replacement card.

 

1. Correcting an Error on your BRP

 

When you receive your BRP, it is possible that it may contain an error. This could simply be a misspelling, or it could be a mistake regarding the length or conditions of your leave. You should report straightforward problems, such as a spelling mistake or physical damage to your BRP, online within ten days of receipt.

In the event that you made an in-country application and you identify an error as to the length or conditions of your leave, you apply for an administrative review. It’s recommended to take professional advice in these circumstances.

 

2. Change of Address

 

If you have applied for a visa from inside the UK and want your BRP to be sent to a different postal address than the one you gave in your application, you will need to update your address details.

If you do not have your decision letter yet, you will need to let the Home Office know that your address has changed. If your decision letter has already arrived, you will additionally need to tell the delivery company (TNT) that your address has changed, and you will get an email or text from TNT explaining how to do this.

As a BRP may take longer to arrive following a change of address, you must tell the Home Office and TNT as soon as your address changes. If your BRP is delivered to the wrong address because you did not update it, you will need to report a problem with your BRP.

 

Section G: Renew or Replace Your BRP

 

The process of replacing or renewing a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is an important aspect of maintaining your legal residency status in the UK.

 

1. Replacing a Lost or Stolen BRP

 

If your biometric residence permit is lost or stolen, and it was valid for 3 or more months, you are legally obligated to report this and to apply for a replacement from within the UK. You can face a financial penalty and be made to leave the UK if you do not apply for a replacement within a period of 3 months.

If your permit was valid for 3 months or less, you must still report it as lost or stolen, even if you do not intend to remain in the UK after its expiry date.

Alternatively, if you plan to leave and re-enter the UK within 3 months of its expiry date, you can apply for a replacement or apply to extend your visa if you want to stay in the UK after its expiry date. If granted, you will automatically be provided with a new permit.

If your biometric residence permit is lost while you are outside the UK, you must still report this, but you will need to apply for a “replacement BRP visa”, which lets you re-enter the UK once only at a cost of £154. You can then apply for a replacement permit when you return to the UK.

 

2. Expired BRP

 

The way in which you replace an expired BRP will depend on whether you are in the UK and what type of leave you have.

If your visa is about to expire, you cannot use the BRP replacement service. You will need to apply to extend your visa or apply for a new visa instead. If approved, you will automatically get a new BRP.

If you are applying to extend your stay or switch to another visa route, you must be in the UK to re-enrol your biometric information, although you may be told that your previously enrolled biometrics can be re-used.

If your BRP has expired and you have indefinite leave to remain or enter, you can apply for a replacement online from within the UK using the BRP replacement service. You will usually get a decision on your application and sent a replacement BRP within 6 months of applying online.

If you are outside the UK and your BRP expires, you cannot apply for a replacement BRP. Instead, you will need to apply for a replacement BRP visa, which will allow you to re-enter the UK only once. You will need to prove your identity at a VAC to complete your application, and you will usually get a decision on your application within 3 weeks.

If your application is approved, your BRP will be sent to you with your decision letter. You can apply for a replacement BRP within 3 months of its expiry on your return, unless you have a good reason, for example, you were unable to return to the UK within that timeframe.

 

Section H: Common Misconceptions about BRPs

 

Misconceptions and myths can lead to unintentional non-compliance, which may result in serious legal consequences, including penalties or impact on future immigration applications.

 

Myth 1: The BRP is just an optional ID card.
The BRP is not just an ID card; until 31 December 2024, it is a mandatory document for certain non-UK nationals who wish to stay in the UK for more than six months. It serves as proof of the holder’s immigration status and right to live, work, and access public services in the UK.

 

Myth 2: Once you have a BRP, you no longer need a visa to travel outside the UK.
The BRP is not a travel document; it does not replace a passport or a visa for international travel. While it allows re-entry to the UK, you may still need a visa to visit other countries depending on your nationality and the destination’s entry requirements.

 

Myth 3: Your BRP automatically updates when your personal details change.
Holders must proactively update their BRP if there are changes in personal details such as name, nationality, or facial appearance. Failing to update the BRP can lead to difficulties with legal verifications and might affect your ability to prove your right to stay in the UK.

 

Myth 4: The BRP gives you automatic access to public funds.
Not all BRP holders are eligible for public funds. The permit itself must specifically state that the holder has access to public funds. Many immigration statuses restrict access to public benefits, and using public funds when not permitted can affect future immigration applications.

 

Myth 5: You can work any job with a BRP.
While a BRP often grants the right to work, there may be restrictions on the type of employment you can engage in or the number of hours you can work, particularly for students or individuals on specific visa categories.

 

Myth 6: You only need to replace your BRP if it’s lost or stolen.
Besides loss or theft, you must apply for a replacement BRP if it is damaged, contains errors, or if your circumstances change significantly (such as receiving a new visa type or changing your personal details).

 

Myth 7: You can apply for a BRP from anywhere.
You must be within the UK to apply for a BRP as part of an immigration application, extension, or switch. If applying from outside the UK, you will typically first apply for a visa and then pick up your BRP after you arrive in the UK.

 

Myth 8: BRP applications and renewals are processed within a few days.
Processing times for BRP applications and renewals can vary widely, often taking weeks or months depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of immigration services. Expedited options are available but come at an additional cost.

 

Section I: Summary

 

The Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) ensures that individuals are correctly registered within the UK’s immigration system, providing a reliable means of verifying identity and immigration status.

Having a BRP is not just about compliance with immigration laws; it’s about integrating into British society with the confidence and security that comes from knowing your status is recognised and protected. BRPs enables holder to engage fully in everyday activities, from employment and education to travel and healthcare, which are fundamental to building a stable life in the UK.

BRP holders are required to adhere to the procedures for obtaining, renewing, and replacing their permits to ensure uninterrupted legal status in the UK and to avoid potential setbacks that could arise from expired or incorrect documentation.
Section I: Need Assistance?

DavidsonMorris are experienced UK immigration specialists offering guidance and support to individuals in relation to their UK immigration status and making Home Office applications.

We can advise on the eligibility criteria you will need to evidence and the process you will need to follow for your application. We can also help where you have dependants applying for permission to join you in the UK.
Whether you are applying for a UK visa or settlement, or if you have ILR and are looking to apply for a biometric residence permit as proof of your settlement, we can help.

For specialist UK immigration advice about BRPs and proving UK immigration status, contact us.

 

Section J: FAQs on BRPs

 

What is a biometric residence permit?
The biometric residence permit is a card issued to foreign nationals in the UK as proof of their identity, immigration status and any rights to work, study or access public funds while in the UK. It is a physical card, similar in size to a standard credit card.

 

How long is a biometric residence permit valid for?
A BRP is valid for the duration of the individual’s leave to remain in the UK, or for a maximum of 10 years.

 

How much does it cost to replace a biometric card?
A replacement BRP card should be ordered on the .gov website and costs £56, plus £19.20 to re-enrol the biometric information, if required.

 

What is a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)?
A BRP is an official document issued to non-UK nationals who have permission to stay in the UK for more than six months. It serves as proof of the holder’s identity, immigration status, and rights in the UK, including work and study permissions.

 

How do I apply for a BRP?
You need to apply for a visa appropriate to your reason for staying in the UK. Once your visa application is approved, you will be instructed to collect your BRP from a designated Post Office in the UK within ten days of your arrival or before your vignette expires.

 

What should I do if my BRP is lost or stolen?
You have to inform the UK Home Office. If you are in the UK, apply for a replacement BRP immediately. If you are abroad, you must apply for a ‘replacement BRP visa’ to re-enter the UK and then apply for a new BRP. Also report the loss or theft to the police and obtain a crime reference number.

 

Can I travel outside the UK with my BRP?
You should carry your BRP with you when you travel, but it does not serve as a travel document like a visa. You will need to carry your passport and, depending on your destination, you may also need a visa to enter other countries.

 

Are there any restrictions on what I can do with a BRP?
BRPs cannot be used to prove the right to work or rent in the UK.

 

How do I renew my BRP?
You typically need to apply to extend your visa first. Once your visa extension is approved, you will be issued a new BRP as part of that process. Apply before your current visa and BRP expire to ensure continuous legal status in the UK.

 

What happens if my BRP expires?
If your BRP expires, your permission to stay in the UK does not automatically renew. You must apply to extend your visa or switch to another visa category as needed. Failing to renew your legal status can lead to complications with immigration.

 

Can I work in the UK with a BRP?
If your BRP states that you are allowed to work, you can take up employment in the UK. However, be sure to check any restrictions that might apply, such as the type of work you are permitted to do or how many hours you can work. You also cannot rely on your BRP as proof of your right to work.

 

Section K: Glossary

 

Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): A document issued to certain foreign nationals who have permission to stay in the UK for more than six months. It serves as proof of the holder’s right to live, work, and access public services in the UK.

Visa: An endorsement on a passport indicating that the holder is allowed to enter, leave, or stay for a specified period of time in a country.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Permission to stay in the UK without any time restrictions. Also known as permanent residency.

Home Office: The government department responsible for immigration, security, and law and order in the UK.

Immigration Rules: Regulations that set out the requirements that someone must meet to enter or remain in the UK.

Public Funds: Benefits provided by the state such as jobseeker’s allowance, universal credit, and other government support.

Student Visa: A visa that allows non-UK students to enter the UK for the purpose of studying at a registered UK institution.

Sponsorship Certificate: A document required for most work and student visa applications, issued by an employer or educational institution that verifies the applicant’s intention to work or study.

Healthcare Surcharge: A fee paid by non-UK nationals who are applying to stay in the UK for more than six months, granting access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.

Priority Service: An optional service offered at an additional cost that expedites the processing of visa and immigration applications.

Super Priority Service: A more expensive service than the Priority Service, which processes applications even faster, typically within a day.

Right to Rent Checks: Assessments carried out by landlords or letting agents to ensure that a tenant or lodger has the legal right to reside in the UK.

NHS (National Health Service): The publicly funded healthcare system of the UK.

Leave to Enter: Permission granted to a person to enter the UK.

Leave to Remain: Permission granted to a person to remain in the UK either temporarily (limited leave to remain) or permanently (indefinite leave to remain).

 

Section L: Additional Resources

 

UK Home Office
https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration
Official government portal for all visa and immigration services. Provides detailed guides on BRP applications, renewals, and other immigration procedures.

 

UK Visa and Immigration Services
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration
Official site for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), offering comprehensive resources on visa types, application processes, and policy updates.

 

The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA)
https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/
Provides advice and information to international students regarding visas and living in the UK, including details about BRP.

 

National Health Service (NHS) – Healthcare for Immigrants
https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/nhs-services/visiting-or-moving-to-england/using-the-nhs-in-england/
Information on how non-EEA nationals with a BRP can access NHS services.

 

Citizens Advice – Immigration
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/immigration/
Offers practical, impartial information on immigration, including rights and laws for BRP holders.

 

The Law Society
https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/
Provides a searchable database of solicitors in the UK who specialise in immigration law and can assist with BRP applications and disputes.

 

Immigration Law Practitioners’ Association (ILPA)
http://www.ilpa.org.uk/
A professional association that provides resources and training to lawyers specialising in UK immigration law.