What is the UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)?

A UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) primarily provides biographical and biometric information about its holders. It is useful for confirming your identity, right to study or work in the UK, and right to any public services or benefits you are entitled to. You do not have to apply separately for a BRP.

Who is a UK BRP for?

You will usually get a BRP if you:

You will usually get a BRP if you:

• Apply to come to the UK for longer than 6 months
• Extend your visa to longer than 6 months
• Apply to settle in the UK
• Transfer your visa to a new passport
• Apply for certain Home Office travel documents

You will not get a BRP if you use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to prove your identity when applying for your visa. Instead, you will get a digital immigration status.

Which information is stated on a BRP?

• Your name, date, and place of birth
• Your fingerprints and a photo of your face (this is your biometric information)
• Your immigration status and any conditions of your stay
• Whether you can access public funds like benefits and health services

You may have a National Insurance (NI) number printed on the back of your BRP. Not all BRPs have this, as it depends on factors including the date it was issued and your visa status. You will need to apply for an NI number if all of the following apply:

• There is not one on your BRP
• You do not already have one
• You are planning to work, claim benefits, apply for a student loan, or pay Class 3 voluntary National Insurance contributions.

What is the validity duration of your BRP?

A biometric residence permit is generally valid for a person’s limited leave or for the time span of 10 years maximum

What are the benefits of a BRP?

A biometric residence permit allows its holders to:

• Provide proof of right to stay in the UK
• Provide proof of identity easily at any time
• Help employers find out the identity of a non-EEA national’s current employment status and right to work in the UK