UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

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What is a BRP?

A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a secure identity card issued by the UK Home Office. It contains biographical and biometric information about the holder and confirms your immigration status, right to study or work, and eligibility for public services or benefits in the UK.

You do not need to apply separately for a BRP when applying for a visa; it is usually issued as part of the visa process.

Who Receives a BRP?

You will generally get a BRP if you:

  • Apply to come to the UK for longer than 6 months.

  • Extend your visa for more than 6 months.

  • Apply to settle in the UK.

  • Transfer your visa to a new passport.

  • Apply for certain Home Office travel documents.

Note: If you use the UK Immigration: ID Check app, you won’t get a BRP, but a digital immigration status instead.

Information on a BRP

A BRP contains:

  • Your name, date of birth, and place of birth.

  • Your biometric information: fingerprints and facial photo.

  • Your immigration status and any conditions of stay.

  • Whether you can access public funds like benefits and NHS services.

  • Sometimes, a National Insurance (NI) number on the back (depending on visa type and issuance date).

If there is no NI number on your BRP and you plan to work, claim benefits, apply for a student loan, or pay voluntary contributions, you must apply separately for one.

Validity of a BRP

  • Valid for the duration of your limited leave to remain.

  • Maximum validity is 10 years, depending on visa type.

Benefits of a BRP

A BRP allows holders to:

  1. Prove the right to stay in the UK.

  2. Provide proof of identity easily when required.

  3. Enable employers to verify your right to work in the UK.

  4. Access public services and benefits (if eligible).