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Biometric Card – History
The Biometric Residence Card (BRC) and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) form an integral part of the UK’s expansive biometric immigration policy, initiated in the 2000s. Designed to bolster security and streamline immigration procedures, these cards embed a chip holding fingerprint data, a digital photo, and personal details, simplifying the verification of an individual’s immigration status.
The inception of the UK’s biometric immigration system was marked by the UK Borders Act 2007, which required biometric Enrolment for visa holders and foreign nationals residing in the UK. The UK Border Agency introduced the inaugural BRPs for non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals in 2008, signifying the commencement of a modern system for recording non-citizen residents. Following this, the BRC, tailored for EEA family members, was launched to align with European immigration regulations.
The issuing of BRPs and BRCs has been subject to ongoing enhancements. These cards are now compulsory for all foreign nationals seeking UK residency for more than six months, integrating a digital verification layer applicable across public and private sectors. For instance, employers and landlords can utilize these cards to confirm the residency status of employees or tenants. As technology has advanced, the UK has been able to fortify the security attributes of these cards, thereby aiding in the prevention of fraud.
Biometric Card – To End December 31 2024
The UK is set to phase out physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) by December 31, 2024, in favour of a fully digital system. This change will affect anyone holding a BRP, including those with permanent statuses like Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Starting in 2025, all UK immigration statuses will be managed through electronic visas (eVisas), accessible via an online UKVI account. With eVisas, holders will no longer need to carry physical documents to prove their status, which can be verified online by employers, landlords, or other relevant parties.
This shift to digital documents aligns with global trends, as many countries, such as Australia, have moved towards eVisas. While the new system promises enhanced convenience and security, some concerns remain. These include potential issues during internet outages at border control and potential complications for non-visa nationals returning to the UK. To address this, the Home Office has implemented a 24/7 support hub to help in verifying immigration statuses if needed.
The Home Office encourages current BRP holders to transition to an eVisa and to create a UKVI account for managing their digital status. For those with indefinite leave endorsed in their passports, the No Time Limit (NTL) application remains available to transfer their status digitally. For more information, users can visit UKVI’s official site or consult legal professionals to assist with the digital transition.
What happens once your BRP has expired on December 31 2024?
If your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) expires on December 31, 2024, you won’t need a physical replacement because the UK Home Office will have transitioned to a fully digital immigration status system by January 1, 2025. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Transition to Digital Status: As of December 31, 2024, you will need to access your immigration status digitally through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. Physical BRPs are being phased out, so you’ll manage your status and prove your right to work, study, and reside in the UK through this digital platform.
Account Setup: If you haven’t done so already, create a UKVI account using your passport details and the reference number from your last visa application. This account will provide an electronic visa (e-Visa) linked to your immigration records, which you can use as official proof of residency status.
Travel Considerations: Although the digital system should be fully operational by January 1, 2025, the Home Office has advised travellers to continue carrying their physical BRP through the end of 2024 if possible. Airlines and border agencies may still rely on physical documents as they adapt to the UK’s new digital immigration system​.
No Replacement Needed: If your BRP expires on or after December 31, 2024, you won’t need a replacement card. The UK government has ceased issuing new or replacement BRPs as of October 31, 2024, so digital immigration status will be the only form of documentation from January 2025 onward​.
Lost or Stolen BRPs: If your BRP is lost or stolen, you should still report this to the UKVI. However, after September 2024, the UK stopped issuing physical replacements, so you’ll only need to rely on your digital status for verification and travel purposes.
What if you do not register for evisa status?
If you do not register for an eVisa or set up your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) digital account after the physical BRP system is phased out, it could complicate your ability to prove your immigration status in the UK. Here are some specific implications:
- Verification of Immigration Status: Without an eVisa, it will become difficult to confirm your residency status to employers, landlords, or public services, as these checks will rely on digital verification. The Home Office will no longer issue physical BRPs to confirm your status, so it’s essential to have your details updated in the UKVI online system​
- Travel Issues: For international travel, without digital registration, you may face challenges when re-entering the UK. The Home Office’s new digital system will integrate with airline and border systems for verification. Not registering could lead to delays or complications in confirming your right to return to the UK​
- Potential Legal Complications: If you fail to register your immigration status digitally, it could affect your legal standing, especially if your immigration documentation is required for work, renting property, or accessing healthcare services. Failing to comply with the Home Office’s new digital-only verification requirements could lead to legal issues if you cannot verify your lawful residency status as required​
- Loss of BRP-Linked Benefits: Some public benefits and private services that require immigration checks, such as student financial aid or bank account access, will require proof of your legal residency. Without eVisa registration, you may lose access to these services temporarily until your status can be verified.
To avoid these issues, it’s recommended that anyone with a BRP creates a UKVI account and transitions to the digital system before the BRP expiration date of December 31, 2024. For specific advice or assistance, reaching out to an immigration advisor can help ensure compliance with the new requirements.
