Biometric Residence Permit
(BRP)
A Biometric Residence Permit is a card issued to non-EEA nationals who have been granted leave to remain in the UK for more than six months. It acts as proof of the holder's right to live, work, and study in the UK and stores biometric information (fingerprints and a facial image). BRPs are being phased out and replaced by eVisas, with most holders now being directed to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to prove their immigration status digitally.
BRPs have been issued since 2008 and contain a chip with the holder's fingerprints, photo, and leave conditions. From 31 December 2024, the Home Office stopped issuing BRPs for most visa routes; applicants now receive an eVisa linked to a UKVI account instead. Existing BRP holders are being migrated to eVisas and should create or access their UKVI account at gov.uk/eVisa. Landlords, employers, and others who need to conduct right-to-rent or right-to-work checks can verify status online using the Home Office online checking service with the individual's share code. Losing a BRP must be reported to the Home Office and a replacement fee of £65 applies. BRPs for EU Settlement Scheme holders were never issued — EU citizens use their digital status directly.