What is a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)?

While applying for a visa or immigration status for the UK, one of the essential documents is a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card. This permit is important for several reasons, such as confirming identity. Hence, it is necessary to understand the BRP meaning UK. 

If you are wondering, 'what is a BRP card?', then read this till the end. You will also understand its usage and who requires it. We have also mentioned the steps for receiving the BRP card. 

What is BRP in UK? 

A BRP, full form is Biometric Residence Permit, it is issued by the UK Government Home Office to non-British citizens. This card is made up of plastic, similarily as driving license or other identity cards. The information present on this card is: 

• Your full name, date, and place of birth
• Your immigration status and the conditions of your stay
• Your photo and a copy of your fingerprints, also known as biometric information
• Information related to whether you can use public services, such as health benefits.

Also, some of the BRP cards have National Insurance (NI) numbers on them. Each of the cards has a digital chip to prevent forgery, fraud, and abuse.

NOTE: It is important not to get confused between BRPs and BRCs (Biometric Residence Cards). Both of them have very similar names, but they are quite different. BRCs are UK residence cards, and they are generally issued to rthe people living in the UK and have their family members in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Icelnd or Liechtenstein. They have a 'Residence Card' printed on them. 

How is a BRP Card Used?

The Biometric Residence Permits are used to confirm your identity. These cards are useful for several things, such as opening a bank account in the UK. These cards can also prove your right to access public health services, benefits, and other public funds you are eligible for, and your right to study in the UK.

There are many other benefits to this card, such as you can travel to many visa-free countries with UK BRP. However, the BRP cards cannot be used to rent a property or to prove your right to work.

Eligibility Criteria for a BRP Card

The BRP cards are made for people in specific circumstances. You will usually get the card if:

• You are going to settle permanently in the UK.
• You are transferring your visa to a new passport.
• You are applying to stay in the UK for more than 6 months, or you are extending your visa to more than 6 months.
• You are applying for the other travel documents from the Home Office, such as a Refugee Travel Document or a Certificate of Travel.

How can you get a Biometric Residence Permit?

It is important to understand that you don't have to apply separately for the BRP cards. If you are eligible, then you will automatically get yours. 

Although it is necessary to provide your biometric information. It includes your digital photo of the face and your scanned fingerprints. 

The process of providing your biometric information depends on whether you apply for a visa or immigration status for the UK or another country. 

Applying from inside the UK

If you are already present in the UK, then you have to visit a Service and Support Centre (SSC) or a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service (UKVCAS). You have to pay a fee of 19.20 Euros to provide your biometric details. After it is ready, you will receive your BRP at your  UK address.

Applying from outside the UK

If you are applying from a different country, outside the UK, then you will have to find the nearest visa application centre and visit it. You can provide your biometrics there, and the fee will be included in your application charges. You will have to collect your BRP after you have arrived in the UK. 

Processing Time to get a BRP Card

1. If you have applied for your visa application outside the UK, then you will have to collect your BRP card from the provided address. You have to collect it within a time frame; otherwise, you will be fined. You can also check out the official Government website to gain more information on this.
2. If you have applied for your visa application inside the UK, then you will receive your BRP card within 7 to 10 days after you get the decision letter. You will receive this card at the address you have provided in the application. Hence, you need to make sure that the Home Office has your current address.  

What Happens After Getting a Wrong BRP Card?

In some cases, the Home Office may print the BRP card with incorrect information on it. So, whenever you receive your BRP card, you should always check it carefully for any errors. You can report the issues within 10 days after its arrival.

If your BRP card is delivered to the wrong address, then you can contact the official delivery platforms and ask for the BRP number and Royal Mail Tracking number. 

What To Do After Facing a Delay in Receiving the BRP Card?

Many people get their BRP cards after a long delay, and it can be frustrating an ddifficult, especially in situations where you need to prove your identity.

If you have experienced the same and waited for a long time for your BRP card, then you can take the following steps:

• Send an email to the email address: [email protected], and explain that you haven't received your BRP card and it's been long overdue.
• You can also contact your local MP and request their assistance. You can explain the length of the delay and the problems you and your family are facing because of this. 
• You can also make a complaint to the Home Office and follow up in writing (if possible).
• You can also email them and make a complaint at this email address: [email protected]. 
• If you have a lawyer, then they can send a PAP to the Home Office regarding the long delay. (PAP: Pre-Action Protocol letter, it is sent before taking legal action). 
• After this, the last option left is judicial review. You can get more assistance on this from your lawyer.