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How to Renew UK permit or BRP in UK? Complete Guide

October 15, 2024

For people residing in the UK but belonging to the other nations, an important document that allows them to live in the United Kingdom as a resident is the UK Permit or BRP (Biometric Residence Permit). But, what if your UK Permit or BRP expires? Then you will need to renew it. This is where the curated guide will help you to renew UK permit or BRP in the UK. After following the outlined process, you can easily and successfully renew your residence permit so that you can continue living in the UK.

Important Update Regarding the Renew UK Permit or BRP

The Home Office in the UK is phasing out the system of Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). The last date for the phase out is the 31st of December 2024 .

This means, you will not be able to get a BRP starting from the 1st of January 2024. However, the good news is you will still be able to showcase your immigration status online without having to show a BRP. That is because your new permits will be issued to all those people who have BRPs expiring after the 31st of December 2024 and they will be called an E-Visa.

But, there is one thing that you will need to know before you celebrate this good news.

If your BRP will expire before the 31st of December 2024 then you will need to renew your permit.

What is a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) in UK?

As the name implies, a Biometric Residence Permit allows you to remain in the United Kingdom as a legal resident . This permit contains crucial details about the immigration status of the holder.

Two important things are present in the BRP – your facial picture and the fingerprints. Apart from this, this important document also has your name, the place and date of your birth, and the status of your immigration. In addition to that, it will also contain details about whether you are eligible for public funds to enjoy social and healthcare benefits. Then there are the terms and the conditions that allow you to stay in the United Kingdom. Apart from this, if it is applicable, your BRP will also have your national insurance number.

You can use the BRP as a document proof while applying to travel in the Schengen region like applying for a Schengen visa from UK.

Changes in the BRP Issuance over the years

Changes in the BRP Issuance over the years

In the early days, a biometric residence permit was given for ten years to the applicants. These are the applicants who have the permission of indefinite leave. This used to allow them to stay in the United Kingdom for a long time.

On the other hand, applicants who have time-limited visas were allowed to stay in the UK for the validity duration of the visa

But, some changes were made in the year 2020. In this year, the Home Office started giving BRPs but with a new validity rule. These BRPs were only valid till the 31st of December 2024. Even though, the applicant had the permission for indefinite leave to remain in the UK, beyond that date, they will still get a BRP that is valid till the last date of 2024 .

Document Requirements to Renew UK Permit or BRP

Document Requirements to Renew UK Permit or BRP

These are some of the important documents that you will need to submit when you apply for the BRP or UK permit renewal.

The first and the most crucial document is the passport. You will also need to furnish two passport photographs. These photographs should adhere to all the requirements laid down by the Home Office of the UK. Do not forget to submit your current Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

Apart from this, if you have the permission of indefinite leave to live in the UK and that permission extends to more than two years, then before you apply for the new BRP you will need to give some important proof. You need to show proof that you are living in the UK continuously. Some of the documents that will prove your continuous residence in the UK are utility bills like electricity, gas etc., a letter from your employer that you have been working for them for a long time in the UK and council tax bills.

One last thing that you may need to take note of, and if applicable is proof of changes in your information. This means, if you are changing your name or your gender then you may need to furnish proof documents of such details.

If you’re travelling to Europe after your UK BRP is renewed our team is here to help with all your visa needs. As the best Schengen visa agency in London we offer fast track Schengen visa services so your process is smooth and stress free. Whether you need personal assistance, 24/7 customer support or quick appointments we’re here to help you travel easy. Let us make your Schengen visa application easy!

How to Renew UK Permit or BRP in the UK?

  • The first step involves you checking the current status of the validity of your BRP. Thoroughly confirm if your Biometric Residence Permit is valid after the 31st of December 2024 or before it .
  • Then you need to start the process by filling an online application through the Home Office Website.
  • After filling the application and uploading any documents (if required), you will need to pay a nominal fee and book your appointment to provide the biometric information .
  • On the day of the appointment, attend the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point . Make sure to bring all the documents and complete the appointment process.
  • After your application is processed, you will receive your new BRP to the address that you provided in the application .

Important note – Make sure to keep tracking the new expiry date of your eVisa that allows you remain in the UK as a resident. Also, check if you need to take any further actions as the UK makes the transition to the digital immigration status records.

Conclusion

The process to renew UK permit or BRP in the UK is hassle-free and quite convenient. However, one important thing that you need to keep in mind is whether your BRP is expiring after the 31st of December 2024 or before the date . This will help you to understand whether you need to apply for the renewal or wait till your BRP gets transferred into an E-visa . So, why hold yourself back any longer ? If you hold a BRP that is going to expire before the 31st of December 2024, start the renewal process today!

If you wish to travel to France, then read the complete document requirements of France visa

FAQs

When should I renew my BRP?

You should start the renewal process of your BRP in the UK if it will expire before the 31st of December 2024 . Also, if you are holding a permission of an Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), you must apply for the renewal to make sure that you are legally staying in the UK as a resident.

How do I apply for a BRP renewal?

To apply for the renewal of your BRP, simply fill an online application at the website of the Home Office of the UK. During this process, you will need to provide personal details, pay an application fee and book an appointment. After that, simply attend the appointment by carrying your documents and after your application is processed, you will receive your new BRP delivered to your doorstep in mail.

What documents are needed for BRP renewal?

Some of the important documents that you need to submit while applying for renewing your BRP includes your passport, the current BRP, your travel document (if you have) like a visa, two passport photographs and proof of living continuously in the UK. Apart from this, you may need to submit evidence paperwork, if you are making any changes like the change in your name or your gender.

How long does it take to process a BRP renewal?

The processing time for a BRP renewal can vary; typically, you may receive a decision within six months if you have ILR. For other visa types, decisions may take up to eight weeks. Check your application status online during this period.

What happens if my BRP expires before I apply for renewal?

If your BRP expires before you apply for renewal, you must act quickly to avoid legal issues. You can still submit a renewal application; however, ensure that you do not overstay your visa by applying before its expiration date.

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