What a BRP is

A biometric residence permit (BRP) can be used to confirm your:

  • identity
  • right to study
  • right to any public services or benefits you’re entitled to

You cannot use your BRP to confirm your right to work or rent. You’ll need to prove your right to work online or prove your right to rent online instead.

You’ll usually get a BRP if you:

You do not have to apply separately for a BRP.

BRPs are different from biometric residence cards (BRCs). BRCs are also called ‘UK residence cards’. You might have one if you’re in the UK as a family member of someone from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. BRCs have ‘residence card’ printed on them.

When you cannot get a BRP

You cannot get a BRP if you use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to prove your identity when applying to stay in the UK. You’ll need to prove your right to live and work in the UK online instead.

If you apply for a BRP, you will not get one.

What’s on your BRP

Your BRP will include:

  • 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, for example benefits and health services

You may have a National Insurance (NI) number printed on the back of your BRP. Not all BRPs have this - it depends on factors like the date it was issued and your visa status.

You’ll need to apply for an NI number if all of the following apply:

Guidance

Read the guidance about biometric residence permits if you’re applying from: