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Expiring Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): Things You Must Know

As a foreign citizen, your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) opens the doors to legally reside and pursue your career aspirations in the United Kingdom. Alas, its validity is subject to a predetermined timeline. Therefore, when its expiration is imminent, it is essential to take the necessary actions to prolong its validity. In this article, we will reveal the steps you should take when your BRP nears expiration.

What Exactly Is a Biometric Residence Permit?

The BRP stands for Biometric Residence Permit. It is an obligatory certificate for non-EU national migrants residing in the UK, as it includes core details regarding their immigration status, identity, and conditions on their permission to remain. The document is a card resembling a driver’s license, and migrants must acquire it when they:

• intend to remain in the UK for a period exceeding six months;
• extend their stay to more than six months;
• seek settlement in the UK;
• transfer their old-style visa which is currently in a passport.

Your BRP holds the key to important information regarding your immigration status. Along with your biometric identifications, like fingerprints and a snapshot of your face, it also reveals the terms and conditions of your stay, including whether you’re eligible to work or use public funds. Your national insurance number will sometimes also be included in your BRP.

In order to obtain a BRP, a person must undergo digital photography and fingerprinting procedures at either a visa application centre or through the Home Office’s mobile application. Minors under 5 years are exempt from the fingerprinting requirement.

When is a Biometric Residence Permit Considered Expired?

The BRP has an expiry date. Usually, this date mirrors that of your visa, meaning when your visa is no longer valid, neither is your permit. However, for those who obtain ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) , the BRP’s lifespan may be extended to ten years.

From 2020, some individuals receive Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) with a shortened validity period, set to expire on 31st December 2024, despite their visa or ILR being valid beyond that date. The Home Office has attributed this to the need to adhere to new European Union (EU) encryption standards.

The new EU encryption requirement, which came into effect in 2020, mandates that biometric information on the BRP must be encrypted using the latest technology. This is meant to enhance the security of the information and protect against fraud or unauthorized access. However, the new encryption process takes longer and is more costly, which has forced the Home Office to issue BRPs with shorter validity periods, even if the visa or leave remains valid beyond the expiry date.

This has caused some confusion and frustration among individuals who have received BRPs with shorter validity periods, as it has created uncertainty about their ability to continue living and working in the UK beyond the expiry date.

The Home Office has advised affected individuals that they will no longer need a BRP from 1 January 2025. Instead, they will be able to prove their status online.

Don’t worry if your Biometric Residence Permit shows an expiry date of 31st December 2024 – this doesn’t necessarily mean your permission will expire then.

If you are an EU national or their family member, theHome Office’s “view and prove” service is an online tool which can help you confirm the actual expiry date and prove your immigration status.

If you are not an EU national or their family member and your employer or landlord asks you to prove your right to reside in the UK for a certain period, you can also use the corresponding online instruments from the UK Home Office (prove your right to rent and prove your right to work ).

By utilizing these services, you can endeavour to ensure that your residency status in the UK is confirmed to your landlord or employer with precise information regarding how long you have permission to reside in the UK. This can be extremely beneficial in situations where proof of residency is required for legal or employment purposes.

Expiring Biometric Residence Permit: What to Expect?

For a foreigner living in the United Kingdom with a BRP that is about to expire before 31st December 2024, it is crucial not to let the BRP expire without taking any action. The process of renewing your BRP may differ based on your status.

If you currently possess a UK visa that is on the brink of expiration, your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) will normally also expire on the exact same date as your visa. To obtain a new BRP, it is necessary to apply for a visa renewal or extension. The prerequisites and procedures for renewing or extending your visa will vary depending on the specific type of visa you currently possess. It may be wise to enlist the assistance of experienced immigration lawyers, such as the ones at Sterling Law, to guide you through the entire process of renewing your visa.

If you have Indefinite Leave to Remain in the United Kingdom, and your BRP is near expiration, you can utilize the online replacement BRP service offered by the Home Office for a variety of situations. These include:

• loss, damage, or theft of the BRP or other immigration documents;
• loss, theft, damage, or expiration of your passport containing your UK visa;
• expiration of your BRP or other immigration documents after obtaining ILR;
• changes to your name, gender, date of birth, nationality, or facial appearance;
• the desire to transfer or upgrade your previous immigration document to a BRP.

This service requires you to complete an application form, pay the service fee, and have your biometric information taken by the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS). You will also need to submit proof of your identity, continuous residence in the UK, current BRP, and any evidence of your change in details (if applicable).

The UK immigration legislation continuously evolves, and so do the requirements for BRP replacement. As such, you may be asked to submit some additional documents beyond those mentioned above when you fill in the application form.

It is important to note that if you have temporary permission to be in the UK and your BRP is soon to expire, it is normally because your permission to remain is expiring at the same time. If this is the case, it is very important that you apply for an extension of your permission to remain in the UK before your current permission expires. This application process is completely different from a BRP Replacement application. This process will include an application for a new BRP card, so that no separate application will be required for a new BRP in these circumstances.

Expired or Lost BRP when Abroad: What are Your Options?

Based on our extensive experience, it is not uncommon for foreigners to encounter unsettling circumstances due to an out-of-date Biometric Residence Permit while abroad. Unfortunately, the Home Office states that individuals who are not currently residing in the UK are unable to apply for a replacement BRP. This can lead to significant difficulties and setbacks for those affected by an expired permit.

However, there is a workaround available to such individuals. The alternative is to request a “BRP replacement visa”, granting the holder the required authorization to enter the United Kingdom. After arriving, the individual can then proceed to apply for a replacement BRP.

Replacement BRP vs. BRP Replacement Visa: What is the Difference?

A replacement BRP is issued to replace a BRP that has expired or been damaged, lost, or stolen. The Home Office has provided guidelines outlining that individuals can only apply for a new Biometric Residence Permit from within the United Kingdom. It is recommended that individuals apply for a replacement BRP within three months of the original permit’s expiry date, unless there are valid reasons for not doing so.

When an individual loses their BRP while traveling outside of the United Kingdom or if it becomes invalid, they can obtain a BRP replacement visa. This temporary visa permits re-entry into the UK and is valid for duration of 30 days. It can only be used once and allows the individual to return to the UK before applying for a replacement BRP. Within ten working days after returning to the United Kingdom, the individual must apply for a new BRP.

Obtaining a replacement BRP can ensure that an individual’s lawful stay in the UK can be proven and can help them avoid legal challenges.

What are the BRP Renewal Fees?

Individuals seeking to update their Biometric Residence Permit will encounter a £19 fee. This fee is exclusively for those non-nationals who are currently living in the UK with temporary permission and require an extension on their BRP.

However, if you are outside the UK and your BRP has been misplaced or is no longer valid, you must apply for a replacement BRP visa. The cost of obtaining such a visa is £154. This fee covers the handling of your visa application but not the separate BRP replacement application you must make once you are in the UK.

What Happens After Submitting Your BRP Card Replacement Application?

Once you have successfully submitted your BRP Replacement application form and paid the necessary fee, the Home Office will send you an email to confirm submission of your application. After this, you will be required to use the UKVCAS online booking system to upload your supporting documents and book an appointment where your biometric data, including your fingerprints and photograph, will be taken. This appointment may typically be scheduled at a UK visa application centre near you. Upon completion of your appointment, the normal processing time for deciding your application is 3 weeks. If you have indefinite leave to remain, the processing time may be up to 6 months.

How to Return a BRP Card in the UK?

If your Biometric Residence Permit has become outdated and you have received a new one, you must return your old BRP card to the Home Office. You can do this by mailing it to the address stated in the granting letter of your new BRP or permission. Be sure to include a note explaining why you are returning the card and include your full name and case reference number.

The Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a crucial document that non-EU citizens must obtain in order to reside in the United Kingdom for more than six months. This biometric card stores an individual’s personal information, immigration status, and biometric credentials, including fingerprints and photograph, and serves as evidence of a non-EU national’s right to reside and work in the UK. The BRP also makes it easy for employers, landlords, and government agencies to verify the immigration status of non-nationals.

Individuals’ Biometric Residence Permits are typically valid for their entire stay in the UK, and individuals need to renew their permission before it expires to obtain a new BRP and continue residing and working in the country. The process for renewing or extending your stay depends on the type of permission you have.

In relatively rare cases, the BRP will expire before the individual’s permission expires. In these circumstances, if the expiry date is before 31 December 2024, a Replacement BRP will be needed. The replacement fee for a BRP depends on whether the application is made from within or outside the country.

To avoid legal consequences such as the inability to work or rent a property, it is critical to track the expiry date of both your permission to stay in the UK and your BRP, and to take the required action within good time before it expires. To complete the relevant process, one must pay an application fee, provide supporting documents and attend a biometrics appointment.

If someone is outside the UK and their BRP is lost or no longer valid, but they still have permission to stay in the UK, they need to apply for a BRP replacement visa to re-enter the country.

Lastly, after receiving a new BRP card, it is vital to return the old one to the Home Office.

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The opportunity card (chancenkarte) for jobseekers in germany, italy: application details for digital nomad visa, important update to the biometric residence permit (brp) process.

1 November 2022

As part of ongoing improvements to the customer journey, UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) has streamlined parts of the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) process for customers applying for certain visas with a duration of more than 6 months.

From 10 October 2022 Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) letters are now issued via email. Physical letters will no longer be provided at the Visa Application Centre (VAC). Customers are therefore reminded to use their own personal, up-to-date email address, or one that they have easy access to, when completing their visa application. It may be necessary to check your spam/junk folder in order to receive this email. Customers will still need to collect their BRP card once they arrive in the UK.

Smith Stone Walters often receives questions from clients regarding BRPs. Following the recent announcement, we would like to take this opportunity to address some frequently asked questions about this important immigration document.

What is a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) and who needs one?

A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a document issued to foreign nationals who have been granted a visa or immigration permission to live, study or work in the UK. Your BRP is an important document which provides evidence of your immigration status in the UK.

You will usually get a BRP if you apply to come to the UK for longer than 6 months, if you apply to extend your visa for longer than 6 months, or if you apply to settle in the UK.

You will not get a BRP if you used the  UK Immigration: ID Check app  to prove your identity when you applied for your visa. If you used the app, you will not receive any physical documentation to prove your right to be in the UK, and you will instead be granted a digital immigration status which can be checked and proven to others using the  Home Office’s online service .

How do I collect my BRP when I arrive in the UK?

If you applied for your visa from overseas, you will need to collect your BRP once you have arrived in the UK. You will usually need to collect it before the vignette sticker in your travel document expires or within 10 days of arriving in the UK, whichever is later. BRPs can be collected from either:

• A Post Office branch
• An Alternative Collection Location (ACL).

BRPs can be collected from a named Post Office branch anywhere in the UK which offers this service. You can use the Post Office branch finder to locate your nearest branch. You will need to bring your passport or travel document with your vignette sticker in when you come to collect your BRP.

If you do not wish to collect your BRP from a Post Office branch, the alternative option is to use an Alternative Collection Location (ACL). Certain organisations such as legal representatives or large-volume sponsors can request to become an accredited ACL if they meet the Home Office eligibility requirements.

Smith Stone Walters is pleased to offer this service to our clients, with both of our UK office locations accredited as ACLs. By instructing SSW to manage your visa application, you can choose to have your BRP sent to our office address where it will be held securely until you can collect it or we can send it to your address. Your dedicated SSW Account Manager will take receipt of your BRP when it arrives at the SSW office, and notify you when it has arrived.

How do I get my BRP if I applied in the UK?

If you made your visa or immigration application from inside the UK, your BRP will be sent to the address you gave in your application. You do not need to collect it. Your BRP will usually arrive within 10 working days of getting your ‘decision letter’ from the Home Office saying that you can remain in the UK.

Can I use my BRP to prove my right to work?

No. Recent changes to the rules around right to work and right to rent checks mean that employers and landlords can no longer accept BRPs when carrying out these checks on prospective employees or tenants. You will need to prove your right to work online  or  prove your right to rent online  instead.

However, your BRP can still be used to confirm your:

• right to study
• right to any public services or benefits you’re entitled to.

How can I prove my status without a BRP?

You may be able to prove your immigration status a different way if you have not received your BRP yet, or if your BRP is lost or stolen.

If you need to prove your status to get benefits or use the NHS, you should tell the government department, local council or NHS service you’re dealing with that your BRP has not arrived. They will contact the Home Office to confirm your status.

If you need to leave and re-enter the UK before you get your BRP, you can apply for a ‘replacement BRP visa’. This will let you re-enter the UK once only. It costs £154. When you apply, you’ll need to:

• choose the country you’re going to provide your fingerprints and photo in
• confirm that you can travel to a visa application centre.

What should I do if my BRP is lost or stolen?

You can report your BRP as lost or stolen from inside or outside the UK. You can only apply for a replacement from inside the UK. The Home Office will contact you within one working day of reporting it. You can get someone to report it for you, for example a legal representative, a charity, employer, college or university.

If you are in the UK and your lost or stolen BRP was valid for 3 months or more, you must  report it  and  apply for a replacement . You must do this within 3 months of losing it. You can be fined up to £1,000 and made to leave the UK if you do not apply for a replacement within 3 months.

If you are in the UK and your lost or stolen BRP was valid for 3 months or less, you must do one of the following:

• report it as lost or stolen if you do not intend to remain in the UK after its expiry date
• apply for a replacement   if you plan to leave and re-enter the UK within 3 months of its expiry date
• apply to extend your visa if you want to stay in the UK after its expiry date – if granted, you’ll automatically get a new BRP.

If you are overseas, you must  report your lost or stolen BRP outside the UK . You cannot apply for a replacement BRP outside the UK. Instead, you’ll need to  apply for a ‘replacement BRP visa’ , which lets you re-enter the UK once only. It costs £154.

You can apply for a replacement BRP when you return to the UK. You must do this within 3 months of reporting it lost or stolen unless you have a good reason, for example you were unable to return to the UK in that time.

I have found my BRP after reporting it as lost or stolen – can I still use it?

No. You will not be able to use your BRP if you find it after you report it lost or stolen.

If you’re in the UK, you’ll still need to  apply for a replacement . If you’re outside the UK, you’ll still need to  apply for a ‘replacement BRP visa’  to travel back to the UK before applying for a replacement.

When your replacement arrives, you should cut your older BRP into pieces and post it to the Home Office at the following address:

Returns Unit PO Box 195 Bristol BS20 1BT

Why does my BRP expire on 31 December 2024 when I have permission to stay for longer?

All BRPs now expire on or before 31 December 2024. This is because the Home Office intends to stop issuing BRPs beyond this date and will be transitioning to digital immigration statuses.

You do not need to tell the Home Office if your BRP expires on 31 December 2024 but your immigration status (for example, your visa) allows you to stay longer. You will not need a BRP from 1 January 2025. You’ll be able to prove your immigration status online, without a BRP.

UKVI will update their information on how to prove your immigration status in early 2024. You do not need to do anything and your immigration status will not be affected.

Speak to an immigration advisor

If you have any questions about your BRP, please contact UKVI for help .

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The Inbounder

Everything you need to know about the Biometrics Residence Permit (BRP)

Last updated 27/01/2022 by Sarah

Categories: Resources , UK Visas

Want to know more about the UK Biometrics Residence Permit, or BRP as we commonly refer to it as? We've put together an entire article dedicated to this topic! Might not be the most exciting read but it should prove informative!

What exactly is the BRP?

The Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a residence permit which holds your biographic details (name, date and place of birth) and biometric information (facial image and fingerprints) that you provided at your appointment as part of your UK visa application process. It shows your immigration status and entitlements while you remain in the UK.

How do I apply for a BRP?

You don't actually apply for the Biometrics Resident Permit as it is something that is included as part of your visa application. If your application is successful then the BRP card will printed and sent to the post office ready for you to collect when you arrive.

If you have not yet applied for your visa, then you might be interested in this article - Which UK Visa do I need to apply for? or Everything you need to know about the Tier 5 Visa.

What does the BRP look like?

It is a small credit card sized piece of plastic that looks like a drivers licence - see the image above.

Why do I need a BRP?

Basically this drivers licence style card is your evidence to prove you have the right to live and work in the UK. There are several occasions where you will be asked to provide it:

• Your employer or employment agency
• Your landlord - landlords are now required to do a 'right to rent' check to ensure you have permission to be in the country.
• To open a Bank Account
• National Insurance Appointment
• Registering with a GP

Where do I collect my BRP from?

You’ll need to collect your BRP from a UK Post Office branch. When your passport is returned you will also receive a ‘decision letter’ which will tell you the address.

The specific branch is decided by the postcode you enter as your UK address in your application- it will be the closest Post Office to this address. So when entering your UK address, remember that this is going to be used when locating a local Post Office.

I cannot remember which post office I need to go to to collect my BRP

It is printed on the last page of your Document Checklist that you had to print out and take along to your biometrics appointment. If you no longer have this then you will need to log back into your UKVI visa portal and download it again.

It is the first green box - see below!

I need to change the address of the Post Office where my BRP is being sent

Firstly you will need to be in the UK to do this. But once you are you can follow our guide here on how to do this.

Can I use my BRP as an ID card?

I would seriously advise against this! We have had sooooo many BritBounders lose their BRP whilst out 'on the lash!'. To replace it can take a few weeks, if you have any tours or travels planned then you might be faced with the issue of getting back into the UK at the end of your holiday.

When can I collect my Biometrics Resident Permit?

If your visa application is successful then you will receive an accompanying piece of paper that provides the location of the Post Office where your BRP will be stored, ready for you to collect. This letter will have a date printed on it, this is the date that you can collect your BRP. It will be helpful to have the letter when you collect your BRP so take this with you to the UK as well.

Note - the post office chosen is based on the accommodation postcode that you give when you apply for your visa. So don't use your great granny in Scotland unless you are planning on staying with her, as your BRP will be sent to the closest post office to her address!

Can I collect my BRP before the date on the letter?

You can certainly try, there is nothing to stop you going before the date on the letter. We always advise everyone to go as soon as they get here regardless of the date given on the letter. Because you need the BRP to get a few of the formalities underway.

I have forgotten to collect my BRP within the 30-day window

Oops! Well firstly go along and see if it's there. I believe they actually keep the BRP cards for 3 months. But not sure where I read that! But we've certainly had people go and successfully collect it after the 30-day window.

If it is not there then you can report this here and start the process of getting a replacement one - https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits/not-arrived

Will I need my BRP to travel?

Yes always take your BRP when you go travelling. It is essentially proof that you can enter the UK without having to show an exit route. Whether or not you will be asked to show your BRP largely depends on the country. Some countries, Portugal for example will ask you to provide evidence of your work visa when returning to the UK.

Help! I've lost my BRP card!

Eek! Sorry to hear this - right so you need to go here and start the process of applying for another one. https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits/lost-stolen-damaged

You are advised not to as this is your evidence of your right to live and work in the UK. Though reading through several forums it sounds like the Immigration process at Heathrow is now automated and you now scan your passport into a machine. Apparently, it does not ask you for your BRP. But proceed with caution here, if you are requested to speak to an Immigration official instead of the machine, you will need to have an explanation ready.

Further Reading

How to change the post-office location for your BRP card

Everything you need to know about your UK Visa Biometrics Appointment

How to Open a UK Bank Account: Everything You Need to Know!

How to prove your immigration status to an employer

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A vignette is a sticker placed in your passport following a successful entry clearance application. It contains basic details about you and the permission you have been granted. A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a document in the shape of a card issued by the Home Office to Students (and their partners and children) as evidence of their immigration permission (also known as permission to enter or stay). The BRP card includes a microchip which contains two of your fingerprints and a digital photograph. As part of the process of applying for permission (outside, or inside, the UK) you have to give your fingerprints and have your photograph taken (these are known as your "biometrics"). For more details on the process for giving your biometrics, please see our information on applying for Student route immigration permission from outside the UK and inside the UK .

If you make a successful immigration application, you will be issued with one of the following documents: a vignette for full length of permission; or a 90-day vignette (formerly 30-day vignette); or a biometric residence permit (BRP). The following information outlines the steps to take if you are in possession of one of these documents and it is lost, stolen, or damaged, and/or it contains errors, and/or you receive a new passport while you are in possession of the document. See Report change of circumstances  about what to do if you have a change of circumstances while in possession of one of these documents.

Any reference to 'Student' includes 'Tier 4 (General)' immigration permission, and any reference to 'Child student' includes 'Tier 4 (Child)' immigration permission. 

Vignette for full length of permission

A vignette for the full length of permission is issued following a successful entry clearance application if the permission is for six months or less. [Vignettes for the full length of permission used to be issued to all applicants, before the phasing in of the 30-day vignette (now 90-day vignette), which happened between 18 March 2015 and 31 July 2015.]

The following information outlines the steps you will need to take if there is a problem with a vignette issued for the full length of permission.

Vignette lost/stolen/damaged outside the UK

(1) Obtain evidence, eg police report, of loss or theft (if relevant)

(2) Obtain a new passport

(3) Apply online

Fee: £154

For 'Confirm your visa type', select 'BRP Vignette transfer'.

For 'Category of application', select 'To transfer or replace your visa (vignette)'.

You do not need to provide a CAS or evidence of funds or qualifications etc (unless requested by UKVI to show no change of circumstances). However, you should submit a letter from your Student sponsor confirming you are studying with them in the UK, in addition to a photocopy of your evidence of permission and your police report.

Vignette lost/stolen/damaged inside the UK

Apply for transfer of conditions, using an  online form .  

You will be required to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) as part of this application. You will be sent a BRP to replace your vignette.

The fee for this application and how you apply will depend upon your visa status. Please view the Home Office website for further details of the application process.

Seek advice if your immigration permission is going to expire soon.

Errors on vignette

Outside the uk:.

Students are usually required to contact the International Enquiries Service to request any errors be amended. Please note, there is a charge to use this service. Alternatively as soon as you become aware of the error, you may wish to contact the visa application centre where you made your application in order to have your vignette amended. It is also recommended that you contact your institution to seek their advice.

Follow the instructions in entry clearance guidance ECB19 .

If the UKVI agrees there’s an error, it will request your passport and photo, and correct the error(s) free of charge.

You can use this method to request a correction to any error on your vignette, including incorrect:

• length of permission
• work conditions

The ECB19 guidance states that you must request a correction of the error within three months of arrival in the UK. If you fail to request a correction within this three-month period UKVI instructs that you must, instead, make a new application for permission to stay in the UK. If you realise that you are in this position, you should speak to the international student adviser at your institution.

The ECB19 guidance also confirms that if you are not expected to collect a BRP (such as with Visitor permission for the full length of your stay), you will not be able to correct any errors in the UK. You will need to leave the UK to correct any errors through the visa application centre where you made your application.

New passport (and you have a vignette for your full length of permission)

Apply online  for a vignette transfer

Apply for a transfer of conditions, using an  online form

The fee for this application and how you apply will depend upon your visa status. Please view the Home Office website  for further details of the application process.

Do you need to do anything? 

If your passport has expired since you were granted entry clearance, you can travel to the UK without needing to transfer your entry clearance vignette to your new passport but you must normally present both passports when going through immigration control. However, you might wish to transfer your visa from an old passport, which is not lost/stolen, to a new passport:

• Students who want to enter into a tenancy with a private landlord in England require evidence of their ‘right to rent’. Only a current BRP, or permission endorsed in a current passport, is acceptable. The same requirement applies to employment; only a current BRP, or permission endorsed in a current passport, is acceptable.
• Not all countries accept evidence of permission in an expired passport. Therefore, Students who plan to travel outside the UK at some point after their passport expires should apply to transfer conditions before they make their travel plans.
• It is perhaps easier to remember to travel with a current passport and a BRP, rather than with two passports.

90-day vignette

A 90-day vignette is issued if you apply for entry clearance for permission of more than six months. You will need to use this 90-day vignette to enter the UK and then collect a biometric residence permit (BRP) . You must not enter the UK earlier than the first date of your 90-day vignette. Entering the UK prior to the first date on your vignette will result in two different outcomes depending on if you are a visa or non-visa national . For visa nationals who have obtained entry clearance in another immigration category in addition to the grant of your Student permission, this will mean that your Student permission will be invalidated. For non-visa nationals, entering prior to the start date of your 90-day vignette, this will mean that you enter as a Visitor and not as a Student. Entry as a Visitor will mean that you will not be permitted to study on your course. You will need to leave the UK and re-enter within the validity dates of your 90-day vignette in order to be permitted to study your course. 

The following information outlines the steps to take if there is a problem with your 90-day vignette.

90-day vignette lost/stolen/damaged/expired outside the UK

Information about applying for a new vignette from outside of the UK is contained within the Home Office guidance for staff ECB17.3 . You will have to pay £154 for this new application and provide your biometric information again, but you will not have to submit a new Student route application. 

If your 90-day vignette is lost or stolen, you will need to obtain evidence of your lost/stolen passport, eg police report of loss or theft. You will then need to obtain a new passport before applying for a new vignette.

You will need to apply online for a Transfer of conditions (vignette transfer ). You should select the following options:   

• Confirm your visa type: BRP Vignette Transfer
• Category of application: To transfer or replace your visa (vignette)

In the additional information section you should explain that you have been granted a Student route visa to study in the UK but you need a new 90-day vignette as you have not been able (or will not be able) to travel to the UK before the end of the 90-day vignette that you have been issued; or because your vignette has been damaged, lost or stolen. 

Note : You must collect your BRP within 10 working days of entry to the UK, or before the vignette expires, whichever is later.

90-day vignette lost/stolen/damaged inside the UK

(1) Your 90-day vignette will be placed in your passport. If you lose your passport (and 90-day vignette), or have it stolen, you will have to notify the Home Office that you cannot collect your BRP  (see 'If you have problems collecting your BRP'). The UKVI will email you, or send you, details of what you must do in order to collect your BRP.

Errors on 90-day vignette

If the error could prevent you from entering the UK (e.g. your name, nationality or 'valid from' date) you can contact the International Enquiry Service to request the error be amended in order to travel to the UK.  Please note, you will be charged or asked to make payment to use this service. Alternatively as soon as you become aware of the error, you may wish to contact the visa application centre where you made your application in order to have your vignette amended. It is also recommended to seek advice from your institution.

You should collect your BRP before your vignette expires.  It is likely that the BRP will probably have the same error as the vignette.

Once you have your BRP, report the error online (corrections are free).

New passport (and you have a 90-day vignette)

There is no requirement to transfer evidence of your permission to your new passport, in order to travel to the UK, if you still have your previous passport containing the vignette. However, if you have time before the 90-day period expires, or before the deadline for collecting a BRP in UK passes, you may wish to do one of the following:

Outside the UK

Apply online  for a Transfer of conditions (vignette transfer).

For 'Category of application', select 'To transfer or replace your visa (vignette)'. 

Apply for a transfer of conditions, using an  online form . You will be required to enrol your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) as part of this application and you will receive a BRP once the application is successfully processed.

Fee: The fee and how you should apply will depend on your visa status. Please refer to the Home Office website for further details.

Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

A  BRP  is issued if your application is made from within the UK and is for further permission to stay in the UK. In addition, if you have a 90-day vignette  you will also be issued with a BRP which must be collected after your arrival in the UK. For more details, read Home Office information about BRPs .

The following information outlines the steps you will need to take if there is a problem with your BRP:

BRP lost/stolen/damaged outside the UK

(1) Report online

(2) Obtain evidence, eg police report, of loss or theft (if relevant)

(3) Apply online for a Single-entry visa to replace a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

(4) For 'category of application', select 'A replacement biometric residence permit (BRP) visa'.

You do not need to provide a CAS, but a letter from your Student sponsor confirming you are still studying with them would be helpful.

Once you have used the single-entry visa to replace the BRP to enter the UK, you will need to apply within 1 month of your return to the UK for a replacement BRP (see BRP lost/stolen/damaged inside the UK ).

If you are not planning to return to the UK during the period of permission evidenced by the lost BRP, or you plan to return to the UK in a different category of immigration permission, you must still report the loss/theft. The Home Office have assured us that you may not have to replace your BRP in these circumstances. Seek advice from your institution’s international student adviser if it appears that you are still required to replace your BRP.

BRP lost/stolen/damaged inside the UK

If your BRP was valid for three months or more , the two processes of reporting the loss/theft/damage of a BRP and replacing it are combined in one online process. See the gov.uk info for if your BRP is lost or stolen. Students should follow this process as soon as possible after they notice the loss/theft of their BRP and they have reported the loss/theft to the police. The Home Office website says that students should report/replace within three months of the loss/theft/damage.

You must apply for a replacement if you have more than three months' permission remaining. If you do not do this you may receive a fine, have your permission cancelled, and/or any future immigration applications you make to come to the UK may be affected.

If you have less than three months' permission remaining:

• apply for further immigration permission, if you are eligible; or
• leave the UK before your permission expires.

If the BRP was valid for less than three months you do not have to replace it but you should still report the loss. As above, see the  gov.uk info for if your BRP is lost or stolen.

If your BRP replacement application is still being processed and:

• your immigration permission is about to expire and you need to make a new immigration application: you will have to make this with a covering letter in order to vary your application;
• your immigration permission is about to expire and you do not need to make a new immigration application: speak to the international student adviser at your institution who can inform the Home Office of your travel plans, so that you can leave the UK before your permission expires;
• you need to leave the UK urgently: speak to the international student adviser at your institution who can inform the Home Office of your travel plans. When you are ready to return, you will need to follow the process of applying for a single entry visa as outlined above. Once in the UK, you will need to apply to replace your BRP once again.

If you are planning to leave the UK soon and you are not planning to return to the UK during the period of permission evidenced by the lost BRP, or you plan to return to the UK in a different category of immigration permission, the Home Office have assured us that you may not have to replace your BRP in these circumstances. Seek advice from your institution’s international student adviser if it appears that you are still required to replace your BRP.

An alternative option for those with imminent travel plans, is to travel overseas and apply for a Single-entry visa to replace a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) . For 'Confirm your visa type', select 'BRP Vignette transfer' and then follow the steps in BRP lost/stolen/damaged outside the UK .

Once you have used the single-entry visa to replace the BRP to enter the UK, you will need to apply within 1 month of your return to the UK for a replacement BRP as detailed above.

If your travel plans are not imminent, you should not travel outside of the UK until you have collected your BRP. If you have an urgent reason for needing to leave the UK whilst your replacement application remains pending, then you should seek advice from a student adviser at your institution as outlined above. If you need to leave and re-enter the UK before you have collected your BRP, the gov.uk website on biometric residents permits, advises that you will need to apply for a single entry replacement BRP. See BRP lost/stolen/damaged outside the UK . If however your 90-day vignette is endorsed as ‘multiple-entry’, you will be permitted to leave and re-enter the UK within the 90-day validity of the vignette, without having to apply for a single entry replacement BRP.

Errors on BRP

Entry clearance (you applied outside UK):

Report online  within 10 days of receipt of the BRP – corrections are free.

Student permission (you applied inside UK):

If the error is in relation to the length of your permission or the conditions of your permission, you must apply for an administrative review in order to correct the error. You must apply for an administrative review within 14 days of receipt of your BRP, and there is a fee of £80 in order to submit the application. The UKVI will refund the fee however if the UKVI agrees that an error was made.

We understand that after you have reported the error to the UKVI, the UKVI will send an email acknowledging the error (if this is agreed), and will advise you to send the old BRP back to the UKVI within 5 working days. The UKVI will then process a new BRP and send it out to you within 10 working days.

If the error does not concern the length of leave or conditions of your leave, you must report the error online within 10 days of receiving your BRP. Reporting errors here is free of charge unlike with reporting errors concerning the length of your leave or conditions of your leave. 

If you have been issued with a BRP that expires on 31 December 2024 but you know that your immigration permission should go beyond this date, notify your Student sponsor of this issue. Whilst this may appear to be an error, it is most likely not an error and is in fact deliberate on the part of the Home Office. The Home Office website has advised that Students in this situation do not need to notify the Home Office of this issue. The Home Office will update their information on how to prove your immigration status if you are in this situation in early 2024. You do not need to do anything and your immigration status will not be affected. 

New passport (and you have a BRP)

There is no need to apply to replace your BRP if you obtain a new passport, unless you will have a different nationality (see  Report change of circumstances ).

Notify the UKVI of your new passport details using form MCC .

Digital status

EU and EEA nationals who have used the UK Immigration: ID check app receive their visa in the form of an online digital status. Digital statuses (or eVisas) are also slowly being rolled out to other applicants.

Together with your online digital status you should also receive an accompanying letter from the Home Office confirming the grant of your immigration permission. This letter contains instructions on what you need to do if you spot any errors with your personal details on viewing your online digital status. If you do spot any errors with your personal details, you will need to visit the following website in order to report these errors - https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status This website is the same website you will need to use in order to view and prove your immigration status.

Concerning any other type of error, we have been advised that the Home Office has now introduced a temporary correction process which is outlined in the Study Sector Support guidance . If you discover any other type of error with your digital status, please discuss with your sponsor the steps you need to take in order to remedy this. 

Visitor permission obtained on entry to the UK

Non-visa nationals wishing to study on a course of studies for a period of six months or less, may either apply for prior entry clearance as a Visitor , or at the port of entry on arrival in the UK by having your passport endorsed with a stamp by a Border Force Officer.

Eligible nationals from the EU, EEA, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea and the United States of America, are permitted to use an eGate in order to enter the UK as a Visitor. On entry to the UK as a Visitor, you will be able to carry out your course of studies using your Visitor immigration permission. You do not need to see a Border Force Officer in order to receive a stamp.

Should you lose your passport following your arrival in the UK in any circumstance, you will firstly need to replace your passport by making the appropriate arrangements with your embassy in the UK.

If you were eligible to use an eGate, you would not have obtained a stamp in your passport when you entered the UK so there is nothing to replace. It is recommended however that you retain a copy of some form of evidence of the initial date of your arrival in the UK, for example flight tickets or your boarding pass.

Visa national Visitors who obtained prior entry clearance in order to study a course of six months or less, should follow the instructions for vignette for full length of permission  if you lose your passport following entry to the UK.

Non-visa nationals are not eligible to use the eGates as discussed above. If you lose your passport following entry to the UK, you will firstly need to replace your passport as also discussed above. Following replacing your passport, you will need to leave and re-enter the UK in order to obtain a further Visitor stamp by seeing a Border Force Officer on re-entry. Until you depart the UK and obtain a further Visitor stamp, you still remain a valid Visitor in the UK. It is recommended however that you make arrangements to depart and return as soon as possible so that you can evidence the basis for your stay in the UK. You also should keep some form of evidence of the date of your original arrival in the UK. 

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The Passport 3 Month Rule - Country Requirements & More

Home » Passports » How to Obtain a U.S. Passport

Are you ready to plan an international trip? Before booking your tickets and traveling abroad, make that the validity of your passport is up-to-date. One crucial part of this process usually overlooked by people is the 3-month rule enforced by certain countries.

Even if your passport has not expired yet, there are places you cannot travel to or through unless you have at least 90 days' worth of validity remaining before the expiration date. These passport requirements are not negotiable.

If you are looking to travel internationally, you need to be prepared with a passport that will allow you to travel to and through all the countries on your itinerary.

Short Summary

• The 3-month passport validity rule requires passports to be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended date of arrival, with exceptions and special cases.
• It is important to research entry requirements, obtain necessary visas in advance, and verify a passport's expiration date before traveling.
• If your passport does not have enough validity remaining, you will need to apply in person at a regional passport agency. Alternatively, our expert advice is to enlist the help of a registered passport expediting service to get your passport renewed as fast as possible .
• Emergency situations may require contacting one's home nation embassy or consulate to apply for emergency passport renewal service .

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

Understanding the 3-Month Passport Validity Rule

The 3-month passport validity rule mandates that a passport is valid for up to three months after the anticipated date of arrival. This regulation is in place to prevent illegal residency and guarantee travelers possess legal passports throughout their stay. Simply put, if you don't have the right travel documents, countries will deny you entry across their borders.

It's important for people intending to travel abroad to be informed about their destination country's rules about expiring passports. These differ from one nation to another.

While some countries require just a 3 month validity period, others might have different passport validity requirements. Some simply require a valid passport at time of entry. Many countries require more.

For example, many countries impose 6 month passport validity rules where individuals must have at least six additional months left before their passport expires. In some cases, requirements include other validity periods based on the nature of the traveler's stay and the corresponding visa.

To learn more, be sure to check out our guide to the six month validity rule for passports . We also maintain a list of countries that require six months of validity for entry.

Europe, The Schengen Agreement, and the 3-Month Rule

Many European countries are a part of the Schengen Agreement. This decades-old agreement between 27 European countries was designed to make travel within member nations faster, more efficient, and less expensive.

The agreement requires travelers to have valid passports during their stay, and it is governed by a 3-month passport validity rule. This same rule is also imposed by most other non-member nations across Europe in order to ensure that visitors do not overstay beyond their visa period.

Because of this common policy, countries can more efficiently monitor movement at their borders while reducing any risks connected with extended visits.

If you are planning to travel to Europe, be sure to read more about the Schengen Agreement , its rules, and its history.

Countries with a 3-Month Passport Validity Requirement

Again, passport validity is a critical factor for anyone planning international travel. Many European countries that are part of the Schengen Agreement require passports to be valid at least three months after an intended date of departure, including France, Germany, Italy and Spain among others.

Aside from these nations within Europe's borders, other non-European states impose this same 3 month passport rule too. Albania, Guatemala, and Panama being some popular examples.

It is important to research the passport policies for each country you plan on visiting. This is the only way to make sure you don't have hiccups during your travels due to invalid passports or failure to meet requirements regarding particular validity periods (which may also include six month rules). Ensure your U.S. passport holds sufficient time before leaving home by double checking beforehand!

Schengen Area Countries

The following countries are part of the Schengen Agreement and require 3 months of validity remaining on your U.S. passport:

*Travel through the microstates of Monaco , San Marino, and Vatican City are also governed by the Schengen Agreement.

It's necessary that all people in transit through any of these 27 signatory nations are certain their passports maintain at least 90 days of validity throughout the duration of their travels.

Other Countries That Require 3 Months Passport Validity

Be advised that passport validity requirements can change with little notice, so please pay attention to these rules when traveling internationally so you don't stumble upon unexpected complications!

For instance, be sure to pay attention to whether the three month validity rule is calculated based on your date of entry or anticipated date of departure from your desitnation country.

As of 2023, the countries listed below have a 3-month validity rule for U.S. passport holders:

Traveling to Countries with a 3-Month Rule: Tips and Advice

When it comes to passport validity, researching the passport requirements and regulations of each destination country is key to a successful trip.

Check your passport expiration date

Check if you need a visa.

Certain countries might require a travel visa while others allow you to enter without one. Visas are issued based on why you are traveling (e.g. tourism, school , work , business , etc.). The types and lengths of each visa is determined by each country's bilateral agreements with the United States.

Like passports, visas can take time to acquire, so make sure any permits are obtained well in advance of your trip. Even though some countries offer visas on arrival , there can be issues if you are relying on this type of service.

Be prepared for emergency situations.

Even if you plan on a short trip to a destination with a low (or no) validity rules, you want to be sure you are covered in case you have to stay longer due to a medical or personal emergency. Should you need to travel internationally in a hurry, you want to be sure your passport allows you to take the most direct and efficient route without having to worry about whether your passport has enough months remaining before it expires.

As a rule, it is wise to prepare yourself before any trips by having contingency plans ready just in case anything unpredicted may occur during your trip abroad. There is a chance an unexpected emergency may require you to travel to or through a country with a three or six month validity rule. If your passport has plenty of validity left, this is something you won't have to worry about.

In case of an emergency abroad, such as a lost or stolen passport , you should contact the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for help. You will not be able to continue your travels without a passport-no matter what the validity rules are for the countries you need to travel to or through.

Based on over 20 years of helping readers with their passport related questions, our best advice is to maintain a valid passport with at least 9 months of validity or more. When your passport gets within a year of its expiration date, don't delay; renew it!

How to Renew Your Passport and Reset Your Passport Validity

Again, if you plan to travel internationally and your passport will not be valid for three months or more, don't wait. Renew your passport as soon as possible. This will ensure you have access to any country that allows American travelers-even if it has a three or six month validity requirement.

To get yourself a new or renewed passport, you need to send an application form along with the required supporting documentation , current passport photos , and pay the passport application fees .

It should be taken into account that the time needed for this renewal process may vary, so making sure everything's in order beforehand can help avoid issues during travel plans. Currently, the time to process a passport application is 6 to 8 weeks . An expedited application will be processed in 2 to 3 weeks .

Be sure to take into account these current processing times for renewal applications before planning any international trips. Also be advised that you will need to submit your current passport as part of the passport renewal process. This means you will not be able to travel internationally until your renewed passport arrives.

Visit our complete guide to renewing a U.S. passport for step-by-step instructions for how to get your passport renewed and our best tips for speeding up the process.

Expedited Passport Services

For those who require a new passport or need to renew theirs in a hurry, expedited services are available. Choosing expedited passport renewal on your application can save you several weeks of waiting for your new travel document, but it may not be fast enough for your needs.

For a faster passport renewal, you can try to make an appointment at one of the 26 regional processing agencies across the U.S. Know that you will need to demonstrate a need to travel internationally within 14 days. This option also includes several additional costs that must be considered.

The fastest and most efficient way to get a passport renewed is through a passport expediting service . These professionals use their expertise and experience to get you a passport faster than you likely can on your own. While they charge a fee for their services, these fees are often much less than what it costs to travel to a regional passport agency on your own and potentially wait days for your new passport to be issued.

Should you opt to go this route, consult our directory of top passport expediters .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i travel with less than 3 months on my passport.

When planning any international travel, it is important to ensure that your passport will be valid for the duration of your trip and beyond. You should have at least three months remaining on your passport before going abroad. Many countries may require a validity period of six months or more.

Most airlines refuse boarding if you don't meet this requirement, so make sure you check in advance! To avoid issues while traveling overseas. For maximum travel flexibility, make certain that there's still enough time left on your passport by checking that it is valid for at least six months after departure dates from each destination on your itinerary.

Can I travel with 2 months on my passport?

Most countries require that your passport remain valid for a minimum of either three or six months beyond the duration of your trip. If you are planning to travel to one of these locations, you can't travel with only two months left. You likely will not even be able to board your international flight as most airlines deny boarding if relevant passport requirements for the destination country are not met.

To make sure that you are able to have a secure and safe journey, be certain to check all details in advance like dates or other information about any passports used before taking off.

However, some countries require only that your passport is valid upon entry. For peace of mind, always be sure your passport has enough extra validity remaining to account for any potential emergencies or disruptions to your travel plans.

Can I travel to Mexico if my passport expires in 3 months?

As long as your passport is still valid for the duration of the trip, you may go to Mexico even if it's expiring in three months. Mexican travel regulations don't mandate any minimum validity period for passports.

Can I travel to Canada if my passport expires in 3 months?

You can go to Canada as long as you have a valid passport during your stay-even if it's expiring in three months. Canadian travel requirements do not have any minimum validity period for U.S. passport holders.

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry? 2. What exactly does a passport expediter do? 3. Are passport expediting services legitimate? 4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor? 5. Is expedited passport service worth it?

You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting .

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BRP: Frequently Asked Questions

Anne morris.

• 23 October 2019

IN THIS SECTION

• 8 minute read
• Last updated: 23rd October 2019

The Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a document given to non-UK nationals and their dependents that is usually applied for as part of a UK visa or immigration application. It can be used as a form of identification and is proof of the holder’s right to stay, work or study in the UK.

This article covers:

What is a brp, who needs a brp, do children need a brp, what information will the card show, how do you apply for a brp, how long is brp processing, how much is a brp, how long does the biometric residence card last.

• What if there is an error on my card ?

Replacing a lost or stolen BRP

I have ilr, do i need a brp.

As a foreign national in the UK, the BRP will provide you with both a reliable form of identification and evidence of your immigration status. The BRP also confirms your right to claim for any public services or benefits that you may be eligible for.

The BRP is a small card, similar to a UK drivers’ licence, that holds your biographic details, including your name, gender, nationality, date and place of birth. It will also include a scan of your fingerprints, a digital image of your face and a digital copy of your signature.

The card will also detail your UK immigration status, stating the date when your leave expires, as well as any other restrictions placed on your leave to remain in the UK.

Foreign nationals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland will require a BRP in the following circumstances:

• When you apply to come to the UK for longer than 6 months
• When you extend your visa to longer than 6 months
• When you apply to settle in the UK
• When you transfer your visa to a new passport
• When you apply for certain Home Office travel documents

Where you are required to have a BRP, this will be stated on your visa or immigration application form. In circumstances where a BRP is not required, you will instead receive a vignette inside your passport.

Applicants under the age of 16 are still required to enrol their biometric information.

Under 16’s, must give a scan of their fingerprints and a photograph of their face, but they will not need to provide a signature. For children age under the age of 6, they will only need to provide a photograph.

Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or someone aged 18 or over who has legal responsibility for them.

When a document is referred to as biometric it means it has embedded information in it that can be used to authenticate the identity of the holder.

You will need to give some biometric information to be included in your BRP. You will be asked to provide a digital facial image and your fingerprints. The process is a quick digital process (no mess or ink) and you will not be required to take off a head-covering if you wear one for medical or religious reasons.

Your biometric information will be stored on a UK government database and managed in accordance with strict UK data protection laws.

Your card will contain personal information including your name, date and place of birth, fingerprints and photo, information regarding your visa and conditions of stay, confirmation of your access to public services and – depending on when it was issued – your national insurance number.

There are also a number of security features in the card. Made from polycarbonate material and containing an electronic chip to make it more secure against forgery, the BRP is designed to combat illegal working and reduce illegal immigration. The International Civil Aviation Organisation ‘chip inside’ symbol, found on the front of the permit above your image, a two-colour Ultraviolet design, and a unique permit number.

If a person is physically unable to provide biometric information – for example, if they have a disability or have no fingers or hands – this will be recorded on the database.

If you refuse to give biometric information, your immigration application will be rejected and it could lead to your deportation from the UK.

When submitting your visa or immigration application, you will not be required to make a separate application for a BRP. If your application is approved, you will automatically receive a BRP, assuming you have enrolled your biometric information.

You will be told where to enrol your information after you have applied. The location to attend will depend on whether you are making your application from within or outside the UK.

In the event that you are making an in-county application, you will either go to a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point, a service and support centre or a post office branch. There will be a nominal fee of just £19.20.

If, on the other hand, you are applying from outside the UK, you will be asked to go to a visa application centre and the cost will already be included in your application fee.

How you receive your BRP will depend on whether you are making your application from within or outside the UK.

In the event that you applied from within the UK, your permit will be delivered to your home address, or the address provided in your visa or immigration application, by courier within 7 to 10 days of receiving your Home Office decision letter. If your BRP has not arrived by ten days after the decision letter, you will need to report it as missing to the Home Office.

If, on the other hand, you applied from outside the UK, you will be required to collect your BRP once you have arrived in the UK. You will be told in your decision letter where to collect the permit. This could be from a named post office branch, or from your UK sponsor if you selected this option when you submitted your application.

You must collect the BRP before the expiry date in your travel document or within ten days of reaching the UK, whichever is later. Failure to collect your BRP, or to collect within the specified timeframe, could result in a fine of up to £1,000.

If you are providing your biometric information in the UK there is a set fee of £19.20, if you are applying from outside the cost will be included in your application fee.

Your BRP will not only contain biometric and biographical information, it will also hold information relating to your immigration status, including the date when your leave to remain in the UK expires and any specific restrictions on your right to stay.

Your permit will be valid for the duration of your leave. Although you are not required to carry your BRP at all times, you must present it with your passport at the UK border if you are leaving or re-entering the UK. As such, you must ensure that your BRP remains valid.

In the event that you have been granted limited leave to enter or remain in the UK and wish to extend your stay, you will need to make a further application to the Home Office before your leave expires.

What if there is an error on my biometric residence card?

When you receive your BRP, it is entirely possible that it may contain an error. This could simply be a misspelling or it could be a mistake as to the length or conditions of your leave.

In the event that you made an in-country application, and you identify an error as to the length or conditions of your leave, you can seek what’s known as an administrative review.

Other more straightforward problems, such as a spelling mistake or even physical damage to your BRP, can be reported online. However, you will need to report any problems within 10 days of receipt of your BRP, or you may have to pay for a replacement card.

If your biometric residence permit is lost or stolen, you must report this to the Home Office and apply for a replacement. In the event that you do not seek a replacement within a period of three months, you risk being fined up to £1000 and could be made to leave the UK.

If your BRP is lost outside the UK, you must again report this, but you will need to apply for a replacement BRP visa. Although this will let you re-enter the UK, you will need to apply for a full replacement permit on your return. This costs £154 and will allow you to re-enter the UK.

If your BRP has expired and you have indefinite leave to remain, you can apply for a replacement online from within the UK. If your visa is also due to expire at the same time you must apply for the visa extension first and if successful you will automatically receive a BRP replacement.

There are many reasons why ILR holders opt to apply for the BRP. The permit allows for easier travel into the country as proof of indefinite status; it offers a recognisable documentary evidence of right to work in the UK and to access public benefits; and it is a more secure document with enhanced counter-fraud features compared with passport vignettes.

If you have permission from the Home Office to settle in the UK, known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’ (ILR), you can apply to transfer your ILR to a BRP by making a No Time Limits (NTL) application where:

• You do not have documentary evidence of your ILR
• You have lost your passport containing your ILR endorsement, or it has been stolen or expired.
• You have changed your identity.

To be eligible for the NTL application, you will need to show you have valid ILR, that this status has not been lost through absence and that you continue to be eligible for ILR.

There is no restriction on when you can or should make an NTL application, provided your ILR status is valid.

Applications for NTL must be made in the UK on the NTL application form and require a fee. The application form must be completed online, and you will need to have your biometrics taken (fingerprints and photo).

The application fee for an NTL application is £229. You’ll get a decision within 6 months of attending your UKVCAS appointment.

If you need to get a BRP sooner you can select a priority service but you will have to pay an extra £800. With the priority service, you will get a decision by the end of the day if you have an appointment on a weekday or 2 working days after a weekend appointment.

If you have temporary leave to remain in the UK you can apply online as well. The cost, in this case, is £161 and you will receive a decision within 8 weeks. You can pay for a priority service as well.

If you are a Commonwealth citizen but do not have access to the relevant documents that prove your right to remain in the UK you could get a BRP under the Windrush Scheme.

Need assistance?

DavidsonMorris are experienced UK immigration specialists offering guidance and support to individuals in relation to their UK immigration status and making Home Office applications. We can advise on the eligibility criteria you will need to evidence and the process you will need to follow for your application. We can also help where you have dependants applying for permission to join you in the UK.

Whether you are applying for a UK visa or settlement, or if you have ILR and are looking to apply for a biometric residence permit as proof of your settlement, we can help.

For specialist UK immigration advice, contact us .

Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.

She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.

Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator , and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals

• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ UK Visa Supporting Documents Checklist 2024
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Overcoming a UK Visa Refusal: Tips & Steps
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ MAC Publishes Report into UK Graduate Route
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ UK Visa Guide: Requirements & Process 2024

About DavidsonMorris

As employer solutions lawyers, DavidsonMorris offers a complete and cost-effective capability to meet employers’ needs across UK immigration and employment law, HR and global mobility .

Led by Anne Morris, one of the UK’s preeminent immigration lawyers, and with rankings in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners , we’re a multi-disciplinary team helping organisations to meet their people objectives, while reducing legal risk and nurturing workforce relations.

Legal Disclaimer

The matters contained in this article are intended to be for general information purposes only. This article does not constitute legal advice, nor is it a complete or authoritative statement of the law, and should not be treated as such. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information is correct at the time of writing, no warranty, express or implied, is given as to its accuracy and no liability is accepted for any error or omission. Before acting on any of the information contained herein, expert legal advice should be sought.

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UK Visa Expiry Rules

By Amar Ali, Immigration Solicitor

Last update: 29 September 2022

If your current UK visa is due to expire, you will normally have 30 days to leave the country. You will be classified by the Home Office as an overstayer if you do not leave within the given time period. This may lead to you receiving a re-entry ban and a refusal of visas in the future. For this reason, it is essential to have a plan in place and in good time before your visa comes to an end. This may include applying for an extension, switching to a different type of visa, or leaving the country.

If you are unsure how long you can stay after your visa expires, it is important to check rather than risk staying beyond the permitted time. If you decide to extend your visa or switch to another, you will be able to remain in the UK while waiting for a decision from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). It is also important to bear in mind that the Home Office will not remind you that your visa is due to expire, hence if you do overstay, you cannot rely on the argument that you were not reminded. As such, it is your responsibility to take the appropriate action when your visa is due to expire.

In this article, we will answer some of the common questions we receive around UK visa expiry rules, including whether you can stay in the UK and travel with an expiring visa.

Can I travel if my UK visa is about to expire

We are often asked, “can I travel to the UK if my visa expires in 1 month or less”. You should be able to leave the UK and re-enter the UK while your visa remains valid. But the risk for those who leave the UK, even for a very short period, is that if their visa has expired while they are away, they may be refused re-entry here. For this reason, it is important to check that your visa will remain valid for your trip outside of the UK before you travel.

How long before my UK visa expires can I renew it?

If your UK visa is due to expire, you will be able to apply for a renewal within a number of days before the expiry date. The exact number of days you can apply to renew before your current visa expires will depend on the type of visa you hold, for example:

• Skilled Worker visa : you can apply to renew no more than three months after being issued a new Certificate of Sponsorship and up to 60 days before your current UK Skilled Worker visa expires.
• Student visa: you can apply to renew up to 3 months before your current study visa expires (i.e., June if your new course starts in September)
• Spouse Visa : the earliest spouse visa renewal application can be submitted is 28 days before the expiry date of the current visa. Check our Spouse Visa renewal page for more guidance.

It is important to check whether your visa can be extended, as not all can. For example, the UK start-up visa cannot be extended, but you can apply for an Innovator visa to continue running your new business in the UK. Likewise, if you hold a UK visitor visa , you may be able to extend your stay as long as it does not exceed the maximum period permitted of 6 months (unless in very limited circumstances 1 ).

If you hold a valid visa that can be extended, you can apply to renew from within the UK. If your visa expires while waiting for another one in the UK, you can be assured that as long as you submit your application before your visa expires, you can remain in the UK while awaiting a decision.

You can also consider switching to another visa before your current visa expired. However, not all visas can be switched to another within the UK. Please check our blog switching visas within the UK for more information.

Can I renew my UK visa after it expires?

In some cases, it may be possible to apply to renew your UK visa even if it has expired. The Home Office rules for overstayers explain that overstaying will be disregarded by UKVI when processing an application if the Secretary of State considers there was a good reason outside the control of the applicant. The application must be made no more than 14 days after the visa expiry date, and the reason for the delay must be explained in the application. Some valid reasons accepted by UKVI may include:

• Admission to hospital for emergency treatment
• Bereavement of a close family member
• Delays caused by an educational institution when issuing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

How can Reiss Edwards help?

Reiss Edwards is a leading immigration law firm based in Central London and can efficiently and effectively handle any matter relating to your UK immigration, including:

• Explaining your immigration options for before your UK visa expires
• Applying on your behalf for a UK visa extension
• Switching to another visa in the UK

For assistance with your UK immigration and visas, please speak to our immigration lawyers for a free telephone consultation on 020 3744 2797 or by email at [email protected] .

References:

1 GOV.UK: Extending your stay

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• Entering and staying in the UK
• Permanent stay in the UK

Indefinite leave to remain in the UK: your rights and status

Information about what it means to have indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK, also known as settlement.

If you would like to find out how to apply for ILR please go to the application guidance to find out if you are eligible.

If you have indefinite leave to remain or enter ( ILR or ILE )

If you have ILR or ILE there is no longer any time limit on your ability to stay in the UK.

If you have ILR or ILE and your home is in the UK you are regarded as settled in the UK.

If you do not have a document to prove your ILR or ILE

If you believe that you have ILR or ILE but do not have a document to prove it, you can make a no time limit ( NTL ) application for confirmation of your status in the form of a biometric residence permit ( BRP ).

You can apply for NTL if:

• your passport containing your status or previous NTL endorsement has been lost, stolen or has expired
• you have ILR or ILE but you do not have any documentary evidence confirming this
• you have legitimately changed your identity since being granted indefinite leave and want this confirmed on a BRP

You can apply for NTL using the BRP replacement service . More information is available in the NTL guidance .

Windrush Scheme

If you were settled in the UK on 1 January 1973, or arrived in the UK before 1988, you should check if you are eligible to apply for evidence of your status under the Windrush scheme .

If you have ‘settled status’ under the EU Settlement Scheme

If you have ILR (settled status) granted under the EU Settlement Scheme , you will not need to apply for a document confirming your status. The Home Office will have emailed you a link to an online service that you can use to view and prove your status.

EU Settlement Scheme guidance provides further information on what you’ll be able to do.

For more information, including where you might be given a physical document to prove your status, visit the ‘ after you’ve applied ’ chapter of the EU Settlement Scheme guidance.

Your biometric residence permit ( BRP )

If you are settled in the UK your BRP will say either:

• ‘Indefinite leave to remain’
• ‘Indefinite leave to enter’
• ‘No time limit’

Your BRP will last up to 10 years and will have an expiry date. We advise that you apply for a replacement around 3 months before expiry. Use the BRP replacement service to do this.

You must tell the Home Office if you want to change the personal details on your BRP , such as your name or gender, or if your facial appearance changes significantly. Use the BRP replacement service to do this.

If your BRP is lost or stolen in the UK you must report the loss or theft to the police as soon as possible and get a police report and crime reference number. You must also report this to the Home Office by using the service on GOV.UK . The BRP will be cancelled.

If your BRP is lost or stolen abroad, you must apply for a short-term single-entry visa to come back to the UK and then report it to the Home Office. You will then need to apply for a replacement BRP . Use the BRP replacement service to do this.

Working in the UK

You are free to work in the UK in any business, profession or employment, including self-employment. You must comply with the law and any statutory regulations for that business, profession or employment.

If you are thinking of going to live or work on the Isle of Man or Channel Islands, you should consult the immigration authorities of those islands first.

Studying in the UK

You are free to study in the UK.

Voting in the UK

Types of election, referendums, and who can vote provides information about whether you can vote in the UK.

Access to healthcare

The NHS entitlements: migrant health guide provides information about when and how you can access healthcare in the UK.

Generally, healthcare is available free to a person who is settled in the UK.

Access to benefits and services

To find out about individual benefits and who is entitled to access them visit the GOV.UK benefits section.

The new State Pension guide provides information on State Pensions for people who have lived and worked abroad.

You usually need 10 years of UK National Insurance contributions to be eligible for the new UK State Pension.

Children born in the UK while you are settled

If you have a child in the UK while you are settled here they will normally be a British citizen automatically at birth. If you have a child who was born in the UK after 1 January 1983 and who is not a British citizen, they may be entitled to be registered as a British citizen once you are settled in the UK. You can check if you can become a British citizen .

Family members who want to live with you in the UK

Family members who are not British citizens may be able to join you in the UK. Information on this is available in the section on family in the UK .

If you have status under the EU Settlement Scheme you can find more information about family members joining you in the UK in the guidance EU Settlement Scheme family permits .

Travelling outside the UK

You should take your BRP with you if you travel outside the UK otherwise you may be refused re-entry to the UK.

If you stay outside the UK, Ireland or the Crown Dependencies (Isle of Man, Guernsey and Jersey), for 2 or more years at a time your ILE or ILR will automatically end.

If you have been granted settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, your leave will automatically end if you stay outside the UK, Ireland or the Crown Dependencies (Isle of Man, Guernsey and Jersey) for 5 or more years. If you’re a Swiss citizen with settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you and your family members can spend up to 4 years in a row outside the UK, Ireland or the Crown Dependencies before your leave automatically ends. Your family members do not have to be Swiss citizens.

If this happens you will need to apply for entry clearance as a returning resident before coming back to live in the UK. Further information is available in the guidance on returning residents visas .

Can my indefinite leave to enter or remain be taken away?

If you are deported from the UK your indefinite leave will be invalidated.

Indefinite leave can also be taken away (revoked) if you:

• are liable to deportation but cannot be removed for legal reasons, such as the UK’s obligations under the Refugee Convention or the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR)
• obtained leave by deception
• were granted leave as a refugee and cease to be a refugee

Your indefinite leave will lapse if you stay outside the UK for 2 or more years (5 or more, if granted settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme) at a time. If you’re a Swiss citizen with settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme your indefinite leave will lapse if you stay outside the UK for 4 years or more in a row.

Becoming a British citizen

To apply for citizenship, you must usually have been living in the UK for at least 12 months after being granted indefinite leave. There are also other requirements. Visit Check if you can become a British citizenship for more information on eligibility and how to apply.

Sections "travelling outside the UK" and "can my indefinite leave to enter or remain be taken away" updated to reflect Swiss citizens and their family members with settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

The title of this guidance has been changed to "Indefinite leave to remain in the UK: your rights and status".

First published.

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• Advice and Counselling Service
• Visas and international advice
• Travelling to and from the UK

Travelling and re-entering the UK

This page provides guidance about leaving and re-entering the UK and the documents you should carry in your hand luggage, depending on when you are travelling. There is also guidance on applying for a Schengen visa for those who need a visa to travel in Europe, and visas for returning to the UK for your graduation ceremony .

Leaving and re-entering the UK

There are some important questions to consider b efore you travel . ....  

• Do you need a visa for the country you are visiting or transiting through?   Check directly with the country's Embassy  
• Have you collected your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) already?   If you arrive in the UK with a 90-day visa vignette (sticker), you then have 10 days to collect your BRP. If you want to travel outside the UK shortly after you first arrive, collect your BRP first.  If you cannot collect your BRP and you need to travel in an emergency,  contact us  for advice.  
• Is your current application for Student immigration permission pending, but you need to travel in an emergency?  If you travel, you will cancel your pending application.  Contact us for advice for advice.

*If your current Student immigration permission has been curtailed, please check the section ' Can I travel and return to the UK after I have been reported to the Home Office? ' on our  Immigration Reporting and Curtailment   page.  

When and why are you re-entering the UK?  Read the relevant section below:

During your course.

With  Student permission , you can leave and re-enter the UK as often as you wish before the end date of your course. On re-entering, you may need to show the Border Force Officer evidence of your reasons for returning, so you should carry all the following in your hand luggage:  

• Your passport, and your BRP if you have one  
• An up-to-date  Queen Mary Student Status letter showing that your course is continuing.    
• If you are traveling during term-time, ask your Academic S chool to provide you with written confirmation that your absence is authorised. Direct staff in your school to Immigration Compliance’s  guidance on absence , which includes a template letter.    
• Documents relating to your finances, demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to live in the UK e.g. bank statements.  

The  UKCISA website  has useful information about what happens at immigration and customs on entering the UK.  

Visitor  immigration permission issued on arrival in the UK ends when you leave the Common Travel Area (this area comprises Ireland, the United Kingdom, the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey). When you return to the UK, you will need to apply again for entry. You should carry evidence that you are still studying in the UK in your hand luggage , and that you will leave the UK at the end of your studies. It would be a good idea to carry, for example, an up-to-date Queen Mary Student Status letter and evidence of your finances for example recent bank statements , and a return ticket to your home country, if you have one.  

A Visitor visa which you applied for before travelling to the UK allows multiple re-entries. You may be required to show that you are still studying. In your hand luggage carry an up-to-date Queen Mary Student Status letter , and evidence of your finances, for example, recent bank statements.  

For a resit

Please refer to the information in our guide  How and when do I apply for new immigration permission to undertake my re-sits .  

After a course studied as a Visitor

If you leave the UK after your studies, for example to travel to Europe, you may be questioned about your intentions if you try to return to the UK as a Visitor, even if you are planning to study another course. If the Border Force Officer believes that you are making the UK your home through successive visits, then you could be refused entry to the UK.   

  You will need to make a new application for  Visitor permission  before you travel to the UK, unless you are a non-visa national , in which case you can request permission as a Visitor again on arrival. If you are a non-visa national and request Visitor permission at the port of entry to the UK, it would be a good idea to carry evidence in your hand luggage to show your intentions in the UK, for example, proof that you have sufficient funds to stay in the UK, evidence of where you will be staying, your itinerary in the UK and your return travel tickets to your home country.   

If you are intending to enter as a V isitor, you must satisfy the requirement of ‘a genuine intention to visit’. Visitors must not live in the UK through extended periods of frequent or successive visits. This is particularly relevant, as you will have just spent a period in the UK studying.   

After your course, before graduation

Students can travel outside, and re-enter, the UK whilst they hold valid permission as a S tudent, including during the period after they have completed their course and still hold permission as a S tudent.   

Border Force Officials may still want to be satisfied that you are entering for study related reasons and will leave the UK before your visa expires, or that you will submit an in-time application to extend your permission in the UK.   

We advise you carry the printed order confirmation from 'Your Graduation' to confirm the date of your graduation ceremony so the Border Force Officer can see that you have a study-related reason to re-enter the UK.  

You will receive the order confirmation from 'Your Graduation' once you have booked the ceremony. You can also show your results , by downloading and printing a copy of your Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR). This will demonstrate to the Border Force Officer the course that you have been undertaking, and your results for the course.  Find out how to access your HEAR on the Student Enquiry Centre website .   

If your Student permission expires before your graduation, you can choose to request entry with Visitor permission instead. We have  guidance about applying for a Visitor visa to return for your graduation ceremony below .  However, you must not enter as a Visitor if, after graduation, you intend to extend your stay under the Student Route, or switch to another immigration category.   

To make a  Student application for a new course at Queen Mary

Generally, it is most straightforward to enter the UK with the Student immigration permission issued specifically for your new course at Queen Mary.   

If it is not logistically possible for you to apply for the new Queen Mary Student permission before travelling, you can enter on your current immigration permission if you meet all these requirements:  

• Your current immigration permission allows you to make a Student application in the UK.  See our guidance ' Check if you can apply in the UK ? ';  and  
• You have everything ready to make the new Student application in the UK as soon as possible, including meeting the 28-day maintenance requirement, if required. See our detailed  guidance  for full information on eligibility, evidence, and how to apply for Student permission. 

You must make the new application before your programme at Queen Mary starts, and before your current Student permission expires, whichever is sooner.  

Please note: If you have submitted an application outside the UK, you should not travel to the UK until your visa has been granted and not before the valid from date of your visa.  

In your hand luggage, we advise you carry:

• Your printed Queen Mary CAS statement  
• Evidence that you meet the other Student visa requirements, for example evidence of your funds .  

After graduation

It is important to understand that your Student immigration permission is not generic permission to enter the UK for any reason: it is issued specifically for you to enter the UK to start or continue your studies.   

If you travel during the post-study period, Border Force officials may want to be satisfied that you will either complete the study-related activity and leave the UK before your visa expires, or that you will submit an in-time application to extend or switch your leave in the UK.  

You should carry documentation to show to the Border Force Officer, if required, the reasons you are returning to the UK. You may have fewer study-related reasons to re-enter the UK after your graduation has taken place, so you may face more questions from a Border Force Officer. You could even be refused entry if the Border Force Officer is not satisfied with your reasons for entering the UK, although this is unlikely if you have evidence of your situation in your hand luggage.   

If you are planning to apply for another visa in the UK (such as a Student visa extension or switching to a Skilled Worker or Graduate Route visa), you should be prepared to explain this and if possible, provide evidence that you meet the requirements to apply. If you are not planning to apply for another visa, it would be advisable to have evidence of your intentions to leave the UK before your visa expires (such as evidence of flight booking, job or study offer outside the UK etc.).  

Travelling in and out of the UK before your studies

If you are planning to travel in and out of the UK prior to commencing your studies at Queen Mary, please note the following:    

Non visa nationals:  

If you are a  non-visa national , you are not required to apply for and obtain a visa before you enter the UK as a Visitor.   

If you are coming to the UK as a Visitor before you start your studies and plan to leave the UK before re-entering again to start your studies, you can obtain permission to enter the UK as a Visitor if you meet the  Visitor requirements .  

If you are coming to the UK to  study with Student immigration permission you cannot normally hold more than one form of permission at the same time. However, exceptionally, a non-visa national i s eligible to be granted leave as a Visitor before their Student permission is valid. You must then leave and re-enter the UK after the ‘valid from’ date of your visa vignette, to enter as a S tudent .  

Please do check which immigration permission is appropriate for your studies at Queen Mary.

Visa Nationals:  

If you are a visa national , you can enter the UK no earlier than the valid from date on your entry clearance vignette (visa) in your passport. You cannot normally hold more than one form of permission at the same time.  

In all cases, you must check to ensure that you enter the UK with the correct permission for the purpose of each entry at the border.  

Schengen Visas

The Schengen area consists of 26 countries, and the Schengen agreement allows you to travel between these countries using one visa.   

Check on the website of the Embassy of the country where you intend to apply for your visa to see if you are required to apply for a Schengen visa to travel to the Schengen area or whether you are a visa free national.  

If the website does not have the information you need, you will need to telephone the embassy (most embassies have a telephone line giving detailed recorded information). Alternatively you can try faxing or emailing them.

See the UKCISA webpages for guidance about which countries are part of the Schengen area, which type of Schengen visa to apply for and the application process, including supporting documents.   

to check what needs to be submitted with your application. You will have to fill in an application form, which you can probably download from their website. If the website does not have the information you need, you will need to telephone the embassy (most embassies have a telephone line giving detailed recorded information). Alternatively you can try faxing or emailing them.

Please note that a letter of no objection is not a requirement for a Schengen visa application.  Please check the information on the official Visa Application Centre website of the country to which you will apply.  

You can download an up to date  Student Status letter  from your Gradintelligence account as evidence of your studies.  

There are some agencies in London that charge to help you with your application. It is not necessary to use agencies and most students apply by themselves.  

If you have completed your course, check with the relevant embassy if you can still meet the eligibility requirements. 

Coming back to the UK for your graduation ceremony

If your Student permission expires before your graduation ceremony, you can apply for Visitor permission from your home country in order to return for your ceremony. If you are a non-visa national , you can request Visitor permission on entry to the UK . You cannot extend your Student visa once you have completed your course.   

You should prepare the following documents/evidence:  

• Your reason for travelling to the UK is to attend your graduation ceremony. You can print the order confirmation from 'Your Graduation' as evidence of your ceremony.   
• Evidence that you have sufficient funds to stay in the UK without working. UKVI do not stipulate a set amount, so we recommend at least £1334 for every month you intend to stay in the UK.  
• Evidence of where you will be staying in the UK   e.g. a hotel booking, or a letter of invitation if you are staying with family or friends.  
• Reasons to return to your home country/country of residence after the graduation ceremony. You could show a return ticket home or a letter from your employer or education institution showing that they expect you to return to your work or studies.  
• If you are not a national of the country in which you are applying, your residence permit, visa, or document as evidence of your status in this country ​  

You can find further details about the documents you will need to provide on the  government website . We recommend that you read the information on this page carefully before making your application.   

You can apply up to three months before you are due to travel to the UK. You will not be able to extend your Visitor permission or change it to any other category of permission from the UK.