Biometric residence permit
My BRP card is set to expire 31/12/2024 ... is this an error?
No, all BRP cards are being replaced by eVisa. Your visa length is unaffected by the BRP card expiration. You will need to setup an online UKVI account. The video below explains how to do so, but if you experience any issues you can always attend one of the designated "How to setup an online UKVI account" drop-in session - they are published on the portal event page.
Your BRP card will remain valid until its expiry date and both BRP cards and eVisas are a valid form of proving your immigration status.
The basics
If you apply to enter the UK on a student visa longer than six months outside of the EEA, or you are a dependant of a student, you will be issued with a one-month vignette (sticker in your passport) and a letter (or email) stating your visa conditions.
You must travel to UK within the time frame of the entry clearance and collect your Biometric Residence Permit (known as a BRP card) within 10 days from entering UK. You must collect the BRP card from the address you specified in your visa application. This would typically either be your nearest post office, or Solent University’s Admissions team (if you used our collection code).
The BRP is a plastic card that shows your photograph, personal data including your date and place of birth, and your immigration conditions, including Solent University's Student Sponsor Licence Number and the length of time you are allowed to remain in the UK.
It also contains a microchip holding your unique biometric data.
It is your responsibility to check that all details on the BRP card are correct. If you identify an error, you can request for it to be corrected online. If reported within 10 days from collection of your BRP card, the error will be corrected free of charge. Any late reporting may result in a fee.
Read the full Home Office guidance on BRPs
Keeping your documents safe
In the UK it is not a requirement to carry your immigration documents with you. Unless you need to have them with you for a particular reason, we recommend keeping them in a safe place at your residence to reduce the risk of loss or theft. An alternative for a proof of age card is the PASS Scheme. The card will act as a valid proof of age card and is much easier to replace than a visa or a passport, if lost. For further information and to apply for one of these cards, please visit the PASS Scheme website.
What is biometric data?
Biometric data is your signature, photograph, and fingerprints digitally recorded. It is usually just referred to as 'your biometrics'. It is collected as part of the visa application process.
When (and how) do I submit my biometrics?
With every visa application, the home office will verify your biometrics data. You may be asked to provide new biometrics at a UKVCAS centre or scan existing BRP card using the UKVI app. This will be specified in your application.
How do I provide biometrics at a UKVCAS centre?
During your visa application process, you will have the option to choose a UKVCAS centre where you can provide your biometrics. UKVCAS centres across the UK:
- Six core service centres offering free appointments in Belfast, Cardiff, Croydon, Glasgow, Liverpool, Sheffield, and Solihull.
- 50 enhanced service centres offering charged appointments, including Southampton.
- Premium lounge - London.
What you need to know about your appointment:
- You need to print or show your biometric invitation letter from UKVCAS when you attend your pre-booked appointment.
- Make sure you arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time, as late arrival will require you to book another appointment.
- They will capture your biometrics by taking your photograph, fingerprints and digital signature.
- All information is then sent securely to UKVI.
At your appointment at a UKVCAS centre, you will provide your biometrics and confirm your identify using your original passport.
There is also an option to scan your original documents (additional fee payable at the six service points). Following your appointment, you will be able to leave the service point with all your original documents (and passport) and await a decision pending the application method you have chosen.
Should you leave the UK while your visa application is pending, your application will be cancelled, and you may not be allowed entry back to the UK.
Please remember that you must submit your biometrics before the deadline stated in your visa application. Failure to provide your biometrics will result in visa rejection.
How do I provide biometrics using the UKVI app?
The UK immigration: ID check app lets you use your excising BRP card to complete the identity verification. You will need to scan your BRP card or the cover of your biometric passport. We recommend removing your phone case. If your phone does not support the NFC reader, it is safe to use your friends’ phone to complete that step.
What if I am applying for the super priority service in person?
If you are making a visa application in person, your biometric data will be taken on the day.