Biometric residence permit
Moving always requires detailed planning, organisation and preparation, even after you arrive in the country. Especially if it is the UK, which has its own unique features and requirements. When you arrive in the UK with the intention of staying for a long period of time, you need to apply for a document such as a biometric residence permit (BRP). It is used to verify.
- proof of identity
- the right to study;
- the right to public services or benefits available to a foreign citizen.
It should be noted that this document cannot be used to confirm the right to work or rent. The legality of these actions can only be confirmed with the help of a so-called share code.
How can I obtain a biometric residence permit?
There is no need to apply for a BRP separately, so there are several ways to obtain this document:
- apply for entry to the UK for a period exceeding 6 months;
- extend your visa for a period of more than 6 months;
- apply for residence in the UK;
- replace the visa with a new passport (if you have one and the visa was issued on the basis of the old passport);
- apply for certain Home Office travel documents.
Attention. The biometric residence permit is different from a biometric residence card (BRC). The latter is issued to people who are staying/residing in the UK as a family member of someone from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein.
When is it impossible to obtain a document?
It is not possible to obtain a biometric residence permit if a person uses the "UK Immigration: ID Check" application to prove their identity when applying to stay in the UK. Instead, you will need to prove your right to live and work in the UK online. The application involves the submission of documents and information through web portals or electronic applications, and thus no physical document can be issued.
What data does a biometric residence permit contain?
- full name, date and place of birth of the person;
- a photograph and fingerprints of the person;
- migration status and conditions of stay of the person;
- information on the possibility of access to public services and benefits;
- the back side may contain a national insurance number (NI). This is an optional item and depends on the date of issue and the status of the document.
Obtaining a national insurance number
A foreign national has the opportunity to obtain a national insurance number. To do so, they must apply under the following circumstances:
- the biometric residence permit does not contain this number;
- the person does not yet have a national insurance number, but considers it necessary to obtain one;
- the person is planning to work, claiming benefits, needs to take out a loan, applying for a loan, or paying Class III voluntary national insurance contributions (to be able to receive a state pension in the future).
Obtaining a biometric residence permit is an important step for foreigners staying in the UK. This document guarantees the rights and legitimate interests within the country. Specialists working at the legal marketplace "Consultant" understand every step of this important process and can ensure the successful receipt of the document.
