Biometric residence permits (BRPs)

1. What a BRP is

You’ll get a biometric residence permit (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 don’t have to apply separately for a BRP. You’ll get one automatically if your visa or immigration application is approved, or you’re replacing an older document.

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.

Why you need a BRP

You can use your BRP to confirm your:

• identity
• right to study or work in the UK
• right to any public services or benefits you’re entitled to

Guidance

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

• inside the UK
• outside the UK

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