This page explains what a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is, and how to request a replacement if you lose it. 

Many BRP cards are now being issued with an end date of 31 Dec 2024. This is because the Home Office intends to phase out the use of BRP cards from the 1st of January 2025.

The Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is evidence of your lawful residence in the UK. It provides details of your name, date of birth, and your biometric information such as your fingerprint.

Your BRP can also be used as a form of photographic identification e.g., to open a bank account in the UK.

You do not have to always carry the BRP with you, but you must take your BRP when you leave and return to the UK.

The Permit also shows entitlement to work as well as whether you are entitled to receive public funds.

You can apply for a replacement. There will be a fee.

See the GOV.UK advice on Biometric Residence Permits which provides details of the steps you must take to report your BRP as lost or stolen, whether you are in or outside the UK.

Many BRPs are now being issued with an end date of 31st December 2024. This is the case even if you have been granted leave to remain that ends after that date, or you have been granted Indefinite Leave to Remain. 

The Home Office intends to phase out the use of BRP cards from the 1st of January 2025. From that date, the Home Office proposes that anyone with limited leave to remain, or Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK will have to go online to obtain proof of their immigration status. Although no specific details have been published, it is anticipated that details of where to access your online status will be released by the end of 2024.

Please note that if your leave to remain is due to expire before the 31st of December 2024, you must continue to apply to extend your leave to remain or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain if you are eligible.

How to contact us

If you're an RCN member needing advice on immigration matters, you can call RCN Direct on 0345 772 6100 or contact the advice team.