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:

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