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A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) has historically been a key document for individuals living in the UK. However, with the UK’s transition to a digital immigration system, BRPs are now being phased out and replaced by eVisas.

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This guide explains what a BRP is, who needed one, how the process worked, and what has changed in 2026.

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What is a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)?

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Definition

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A BRP is an identity document issued by the UK Home Office to confirm a person’s immigration status in the UK.

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What Information It Contains

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• Full name, date of birth, and nationality.
• Immigration status and visa type.
• Visa expiry date and conditions.
• Work and study permissions.
• Biometric data (photo and fingerprints).

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Key 2026 Update

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• BRPs are no longer issued.
• Most individuals now use eVisas (digital status).
• Physical BRPs are no longer valid for right-to-work checks.

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👉 Learn about eVisas: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/online-immigration-status-evisa

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Who Needed a BRP? (Before 2026 Transition)

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Eligibility Criteria

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You previously needed a BRP if you:

• Applied to stay in the UK for more than 6 months.
• Extended or switched your visa.
• Applied for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
• Replaced a lost or damaged BRP.

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How to Apply for a BRP (Legacy Process)

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Applying from Outside the UK

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• Submit visa application via UK Visas and Immigration.
• Attend biometric appointment.
• Receive entry vignette (30–90 days).
• Travel to the UK.
• Collect BRP within 10 days.

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Applying from Inside the UK

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• Submit online visa application.
• Attend UKVCAS biometric appointment.
• Wait for decision (typically ~8 weeks).
• Receive BRP by post.

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How and Where to Collect a BRP

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Collection Locations

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• Post Office branch.
• Sponsor organisation (employer or university).

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Documents Required

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• Passport with visa vignette.
• Decision letter.

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Important Rule

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You had to collect your BRP within 10 days of arrival in the UK.

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Lost, Stolen, or Damaged BRP: What to Do

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Steps to Take

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• Report loss to the Home Office immediately.
• Apply for a replacement BRP.
• Pay the replacement fee (£56 in the UK).

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If Lost Abroad

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• Apply for a replacement BRP visa to re-enter the UK.
• Then apply for a new BRP.

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BRP Expiry and Renewal

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Expiry Rules

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• BRPs expired on the same date as your visa.
• You needed to act before expiry.

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Your Options

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• Extend your visa.
• Apply for ILR.
• Leave the UK.

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Best Practice

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Start your application at least 28 days before expiry.

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Common BRP Issues and Solutions

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Incorrect Details

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• Contact UKVI immediately to correct errors.

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BRP Not Delivered

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• Report via GOV.UK delivery issue service.

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Missed Collection Deadline

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• Notify the Home Office promptly.

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FAQs About BRPs in 2026

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Can I still use a BRP in 2026?

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No — BRPs are being phased out and replaced by eVisas.

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Can I travel without a BRP?

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You must now use your digital immigration status (eVisa) when travelling.

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How long did BRP applications take?

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Typically around 8 weeks inside the UK, with faster priority options available.

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Can someone else collect a BRP?

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Yes, but only with Home Office approval.

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How Annaizu Helps with UK Immigration Compliance

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Annaizu supports individuals and employers with:

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eVisa & Status Management

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• UKVI account setup.
• Digital status guidance.
• Transition from BRP to eVisa.

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Immigration Support Services

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• Visa applications and extensions.
• Compliance advice.
• Document and status management.

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👉 Official GOV.UK guidance: https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits
👉 Annaizu immigration support: https://www.annaizu.com/contact

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Conclusion

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While the BRP was once essential for proving immigration status in the UK, the system has now moved towards digital eVisas in 2026. Understanding this transition is crucial for staying compliant and avoiding disruptions.

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Always ensure your immigration status is up to date and accessible through your UKVI account.

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