At present, pursuing higher education in the United Kingdom is on the priority list of many international students. To get admission there, students have to submit all required documents, such as proof of enough funds, a valid passport, and much more. Despite these requirements, one of the most important things that needs to be obtained is the UK Biometric Residence Permit. This BRP is essential for everyone who is non-European and plans to live in the UK for a duration of over six months.
In addition, the permit is used for numerous purposes. It shows that students are allowed to work or study in the UK and establish their legal status as well as identity. Not only this, they can also get access to public benefits and services. If you are interested in learning more about the digital Biometric Residence Permit, our team at Dunya Consultants is here to help you.
What is a Biometric Residence Permit?
The majority of people still don’t know what BRP stands for, right? A Biometric Residence Permit, also known as a BRP, is proof of your immigration status in the United Kingdom. Remember that not everybody will need a BRP; they might get a full visa status or a digital visa status in their passport instead.
Furthermore, whether you will have a BRP will only be confirmed after your visa decision letter arrives. If yes, you will have to collect this upon reaching the UK. Students must make sure they take it along with them when traveling to come back to the UK.
What is Included in a Biometric Residence Permit?
Your biometric residence permit features these details:
- Your full name, date, and place of birth
- Whether you can use public benefits like health services
- Your face picture and fingerprints (biometric information)
- Your immigration status
- You might have a NI (National Insurance) number printed on your BRP’s back.
Eligibility Criteria for UK Biometric Residence Permit
You will get a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) in these below-given situations:
- If you plan to live in the UK for over six months for long-term purposes, like study, work, or family meet-up.
- If you are already staying in the UK but are planning to extend your visa duration by more than six months,
- If you are applying for settled status in the UK, you must obtain a biometric residence permit indefinite leave to remain.
- If you want to change your current visa to a new passport.
- If you apply for particular travel documents allotted by the Home Office, like a Stateless Person’s Document or a Certificate of Travel, you will be qualified to get a BRP.
Documents Required to Apply for a BRP
The list of documents that are mandatory to apply for a Biometric Residence Permit are as follows:
- A correctly filled BRP application form.
- Current passport-sized pictures according to the UK passport requirements.
- A valid passport/travel document.
- Evidence of address such as a bank statement, utility bill, or rental agreement.
- Proof of study, work, or other reasons for living in the UK.
- Financial documents proving you can fund yourself.
- Evidence that you have already paid the BRP application fee.
- You will also need to submit your digital photo and fingerprints, which are typically done at the UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services) center.
How to Apply for a Biometric Residence Permit?
There are several steps that you will need to follow while applying for a Biometric Residence Permit. However, this entire process begins with applying for your UK student visa. Let’s discuss these steps below:
- In the first step, visit the official website of UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) or VAC (Visa Application Centre) and apply for a UK student visa.
- Once you have applied, you will be asked to book an appointment for a biometric residence permit. You are required to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a picture) at this appointment.
- After your visa is approved, you will be informed about the date and location to collect your BRP.
Processing Time for BRP
Those who have applied from within the United Kingdom will receive their BRP at their given address via courier within seven to ten days of receiving their visa decision letter. Those who have applied from outside the United Kingdom will have to collect their biometric residence permit once they travel to the UK.
Do Kids Need a BRP?
Yes, kids also have to get their BRPs. Candidates under eighteen years old are required to submit biometric details as requested by the authorities.
In addition, any child less than sixteen should be accompanied by a guardian, parent, or someone older than eighteen who has legal responsibility for those children.
Conclusion
If you are planning to stay in the United Kingdom for the long term, getting a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is very important. This permit will not just provide legal status but also allow you to study and work in the UK. However, a UK biometric residence permit can only be obtained after the approval of your UK student visa. Furthermore, those who are planning to stay in the UK for more than six years will have to apply for this permit. Please make sure you complete the BRP application appropriately while applying to avoid any delays. Still, if you need any help studying in the UK or getting BRP, contact our experts at Dunya Consultants to get expert advice regarding the whole process.
FAQs
What to do when my biometric residence permit expires?
If your biometric residence permit expires, you will have to apply for a replacement BRP visa. This BRP replacement visa permits you to enter the UK for renewal.
Where can I travel with UK biometric residence permit?
You can travel anywhere in the United Kingdom with this UK biometric residence permit. It shows that you have legal status to stay in the UK.
What is the difference between biometric residence permit and card?
The BRP is proof of your legal residence in the UK. At the same time, internationals from outside the European economic regions who are willing to stay and work here will need to apply for a biometric residence card.
