What Is a BRP?
A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a card that proves your immigration status in the UK. It contains your photo, name, date of birth, fingerprints, and immigration permission details.
What to Do Immediately
- Report it to the police — Get a crime reference number
- Report it to the Home Office — Use the online BRP cancellation service
- Contact your employer or university — They may need to know
How to Apply for a Replacement
- Go to gov.uk/replace-brp
- Complete the online application form
- Pay the replacement fee (£85)
- Book a biometric appointment at a UKVCAS centre
- Attend the appointment to provide fingerprints and photo
- Wait for the replacement BRP (usually 8 weeks)
If You Need to Travel
If you need to travel while waiting for your replacement BRP:
- You can apply for a BRP Transfer of Conditions vignette (a sticker for your passport)
- This allows you to travel and return to the UK
- Apply separately and pay an additional fee
If Your BRP Is Expiring Soon
If your BRP expires within 3 months, you may need to apply for renewal rather than replacement. Check the expiry date before applying.
Key Information
- Fee: £85
- Processing time: Usually 8 weeks
- You must apply from within the UK
- You must not leave the UK while your application is pending
Having your BRP in order is important for your immigration status. Once you reach ILR and eventually citizenship, you will no longer need a BRP.
Libby writes and maintains UKRoute's guides on visas, settlement (ILR) and British citizenship. She keeps immigration pages in line with current GOV.UK guidance and fee schedules.
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