Give your fingerprints and photo

You’ll be asked to provide your fingerprints and photo (‘biometric information’) if you’re getting a biometric residence permit (BRP) as part of your visa or immigration application.

You need to:

  • have a digital photo taken of your face
  • put your fingers on a glass screen to be scanned

The process takes less than 5 minutes and does not involve any ink or mess. You will not need to take off your head covering if you wear it for religious or medical reasons.

If you do not have any fingers you only need to have a digital photo taken of your face. It will be noted on your records that you’re physically unable to provide fingerprints.

You do not need to pay a fee to give your fingerprints and photo.

What children need to do when they give their biometric information

Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or someone over 18 who has legal responsibility for them.

Children do not need to give their fingerprints if they are under 5 when they apply.

Where to provide your biometric information

Where you give your biometric information depends on how you’re making your visa or immigration application.

If you’re applying from within the UK, you’ll usually go to one of the following:

If you’re outside the UK, you’ll be asked to go to a visa application centre.

If you’re applying to extend your stay or switch to a different visa, you must be in the UK to provide your biometric information.