A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is one of the most important immigration documents for non-UK nationals living in the United Kingdom. It serves as official proof of your immigration status, visa conditions, and right to work, study, or access certain services. If your BRP is lost, stolen, damaged, contains incorrect details, or is expiring, you are legally required to apply for a replacement.
Understanding how to apply for a UK Biometric Residence Permit replacement is essential to avoid immigration breaches, travel restrictions, fines, or complications with employers and landlords. This guide explains the full replacement process step by step, including eligibility, timelines, fees, biometric appointments, and common mistakes to avoid—using only current and official UK immigration procedures.
What Is a UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)?
A Biometric Residence Permit is a physical immigration card issued by UK Home Office to non-British nationals who have permission to stay in the UK for more than six months.
A BRP contains:
- Full name and date of birth
- Immigration status and visa category
- Visa validity dates
- Right to work or study conditions
- Nationality
- Biometric information (fingerprints and photo)
BRPs are issued and managed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Official guidance is published at
https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits
When Do You Need to Replace a BRP?
You must apply for a BRP replacement if any of the following situations apply.
Lost or Stolen BRP
If your BRP is lost or stolen:
- You must report it immediately
- You must apply for a replacement within the required timeframe
Failure to act promptly can lead to penalties or visa compliance issues.
Damaged BRP
A BRP is considered damaged if:
- It is cracked or broken
- The chip is not working
- Text or images are unreadable
Incorrect Personal Details
You must replace your BRP if it contains errors such as:
- Misspelled name
- Incorrect date of birth
- Wrong visa conditions
BRP Expiring or Reaching Validity End
Most BRPs expire on 31 December 2024 or at the end of your visa. Even if your immigration status continues digitally, you may still need a replacement or updated record.
Change of Personal Information
You must apply for a replacement if you change:
- Your name (e.g., after marriage)
- Gender marker
- Nationality
Deadline for Applying for a BRP Replacement
UKVI imposes strict deadlines.
- Lost or stolen in the UK: apply within 3 months
- Lost or stolen outside the UK: report immediately and apply for a replacement visa to re-enter the UK
- Errors or damage: apply as soon as discovered
Late applications may result in:
- Fines
- Delays in immigration services
- Compliance issues with employers or landlords
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for UK BRP Replacement
Step 1: Report Your BRP as Lost or Stolen (If Applicable)
If your BRP is lost or stolen, you must report it online before applying for a replacement.
Official reporting link:
https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits/lost-stolen-damaged
You will receive confirmation that the BRP has been cancelled.
Step 2: Complete the Online BRP Replacement Application
All BRP replacement applications must be submitted online via UKVI.
Application portal:
https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits/replace
You will be required to provide:
- Personal details
- Immigration status information
- BRP reference number (if available)
- Police report (if stolen)
- Explanation of loss, damage, or error
Step 3: Pay the BRP Replacement Fee
As of current UKVI rules:
- Standard BRP replacement fee: £56
- Additional fees may apply for expedited services or overseas replacement visas
Fees are paid online during the application process.
Official fee guidance is available at:
https://www.gov.uk/visa-fees
Step 4: Book and Attend a Biometric Appointment
After submitting your application, you must book a biometric appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
At the appointment, you will provide:
- Fingerprints
- Digital photograph
- Supporting documents (if requested)
Biometric services are delivered through UKVI’s approved partners. Appointment booking is completed online after payment.
Step 5: Wait for Your Replacement BRP
Processing times typically range from 7 to 8 weeks, although delays may occur during peak periods.
Once approved:
- Your replacement BRP will be delivered by courier
- You must sign for the card
- Check all details immediately upon receipt
Applying for a BRP Replacement Outside the UK
If your BRP is lost or stolen outside the UK, you cannot apply for a replacement BRP directly.
Instead, you must:
- Apply for a BRP replacement visa
- Use the visa to re-enter the UK
- Apply for a replacement BRP once back in the UK
Overseas application guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits/lost-stolen-damaged
Documents Required for BRP Replacement
You may be asked to provide:
- Passport
- Police report (for theft)
- Marriage certificate or deed poll (name change)
- Previous BRP details (if available)
- Home Office correspondence
Always upload clear and accurate documents to avoid delays.
Can You Work or Travel While Waiting for a Replacement BRP?
Working in the UK
You may continue working only if:
- Your immigration status remains valid
- Your employer can verify your status using the Home Office online right-to-work system
Employer verification guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/prove-right-to-work
Travelling Outside the UK
You should not travel outside the UK while waiting for a replacement BRP, as re-entry may be denied without valid documentation.
Common Reasons for BRP Replacement Delays or Refusals
The most frequent issues include:
- Failure to report a lost or stolen BRP
- Incorrect or inconsistent information
- Missed biometric appointments
- Uploading unclear documents
- Applying under the wrong category
Double-checking your application before submission significantly reduces processing delays.
Digital Immigration Status and the Future of BRPs
The UK is gradually transitioning to digital immigration status (eVisas). However, BRPs are still widely required for:
- Employment checks
- Renting accommodation
- Travel and identity verification
UKVI updates on digital status can be found at:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/online-immigration-status-evisa
Legal Consequences of Not Replacing a BRP
Failing to replace a BRP when required may result in:
- Civil penalties
- Loss of access to employment or housing
- Issues with future visa or settlement applications
- Immigration compliance investigations
Replacing a BRP promptly is a legal responsibility, not an optional administrative task.
When to Seek Professional Help
You may benefit from professional immigration advice if:
- Your BRP contains incorrect visa conditions
- You are close to visa expiry
- You have overstayed or have compliance concerns
- Your replacement application is delayed or refused
Regulated immigration advisers can help ensure accuracy and compliance.
Conclusion: Replacing Your UK BRP the Right Way
Understanding how to apply for a UK Biometric Residence Permit replacement is essential for maintaining lawful immigration status in the UK. Whether your BRP is lost, stolen, damaged, or incorrect, acting quickly and following the official UKVI process protects your right to live, work, and study without disruption.
By reporting issues promptly, submitting a complete online application, attending biometric appointments, and relying only on official guidance, you can ensure a smooth and compliant replacement process.
For the most up-to-date rules and forms, always consult
https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits