A biometric residence permit (BRP) is an immigration document that serves as proof of an individuals right to reside, work, or study in the UK. It is a polycarbonate card containing a chip to make it more secure against forgery and abuse. The BRP is similar in size to a photo-driving license or an identity card and contains the individual's personal details, biometric information, immigration status, and any conditions or restrictions of stay. The biometric information includes fingerprints and a photograph of the individual's face. BRPs are different from biometric residence cards (BRCs), which are also called "UK residence cards" and are issued to family members of someone from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein.
BRPs can be used to confirm an individual's identity, right to study, and right to any public services or benefits they are entitled to. They can also be used as a form of identity, for example, to open a UK bank account. However, they cannot be used to confirm an individual's right to work or rent, and they cannot be obtained if an individual uses the "UK Immigration: ID Check" app to prove their identity when applying to stay in the UK.
Foreign nationals from outside the European Economic Area making specific applications to the Home Office have to apply for a biometric residence permit. This applies to both postal applications and applications made in person. Successful applicants receive a biometric residence permit as evidence.
