BRP Card Replacement

May 31, 2025

The BRP Card Replacement Biometric Residence Permit is a crucial document that contains the immigration status, DOB, and name of an infinite number of applicants, not even fingerprints for visa details. However, sometimes, applicants must replace or renew their BRP due to certain conditions. 

However, there is a whole process for BRP card replacement. Applicants will get a BRP replacement application form, pay a fee, collect documents, attach biometric verification results, and upload them on the government website. They need this card to maintain their visa status. 

What Is (BRP) Biometric Residence Permit?

Applicants who wish to stay beyond six months in the UK must have a BRP. During the visa application, the applicant is subject to an overall biometric verification, which includes fingerprints and pictures. Using these verified details, the applicant will get a BRP card. 

However, understanding the use and importance of BRP cards helps applicants successfully stay. Moreover, knowing when a BRP card needs to be replaced and why it is essential is vital. The discussion below enables you to understand the detailed process of BRP card replacement. 

Why Replace The BRP Card

There are several reasons for replacing the BRP card:

  • Damaged cards do not work correctly, so it is essential to get a new one. 
  • When cards get stolen, you must report them to the home office because other people can miss using your card. 
  • Also, inform the home office about the lost card and soon reapply for the new one. 
  • With an expired card, applicants can not travel outside and can not take advantage of this card, so quick renewal is mandatory. 

Steps To Replace BRP Card

Below is a detailed breakdown of the steps involved in BRP replacement:

Report Left, Damage, and Theft

Report whether your BRP is damaged, lost, or stolen. Applicants must do this process within six months of facing such a situation. Applicants who do not inform the home office about their BRP will face severe penalties. Additionally, applicants must use the official home office website to report about their BRP card. Further, mention your details and information. 

Applying For BRP Card Replacement

For applying for BRP card replacement, applicants must have the following documents:

  • A police report
  • A valid passport or travel document
  • Details about personal address
  • Documents from the home office 

Online Application

The detailed online application process for BRP card replacement is as follows:

  • Gather documents after thoroughly reading the requirements of this process.
  • Online, from the UKVI website, you can get an applicant form for card replacement.
  • Search about the required fee for this process and pay it online.
  • Get paid fee receipt, supporting documents, and filled application form and upload them. 

Submitting Biometrics

After the application process, the applicant will be asked to provide biometric details. These details include the verified colored pictures and fingerprints to proceed in this process. The details you provide are all used to make your BRP card. 

Processing

Once all the steps are completed, the applicant will wait for the decision, which can take weeks to months. At this time, home officers will call you to confirm your details. 

BRP Card Stolen Inside The UK

If an applicant is granted a BRP card that is only valid for three and gets lost in the UK, follow these simple steps:

  • If the applicant is in the UK just for a temporary stay, inform the home office about the lost BRP card. It is not permitted to apply again for a card replacement during a temporary stay.
  • If the applicant plans to visit outside the UK, after going, the applicant will learn about the expiry. The advisor should come back before the expiry and apply for its renewal. 
  • For applicants who want to stay in the UK for a prolonged duration, you must first extend your visa and then apply for a new BRP.

BRP Card Stolen Outside The UK

Applicants who lost their BRP card outside the UK cannot apply from outside the UK. In this condition, they should come back soon and get a new bra card replacement visa, which costs approximately £154. 

What To Do If Applicant Is Outside The UK

If an applicant lost their BRP card and is outside the UK, the process will be as follows:

  • Applicants immediately inform the local police about the card or get a police report.
  • If applicable, apply online to re-enter the UK quickly.
  • Once you return, do the standard process of applying for a BRP card replacement. 

Consequences Of Not Replacing BRP Card

There are the following consequences of  not replacing the BRP card:

  • Not reporting to the home office about the damaged or stolen card can result in a £1,000 fine. 
  • With a BRP card, applicants are permitted to visit outside the UK.
  • Applicants who do not have a BRP card will need help in getting employment.
  • Moreover, this card allows applicants only to access free education, healthcare, and other public services. 

Conclusion

To summarize, BRP Card Replacement is a straightforward method of paying a fee, waiting for a decision, and checking immigration status. You should apply to renew a BRP Card if your current card is damaged, stolen, or lost and need replacing. The application comprises filling out the form, being biometrically verified, and collecting supporting documents. While waiting for the card, applicants can work by showing evidence of a copy of BRP. Applicants can check their BRP application status online through the UKVI immigration website. Frequently check the latest details of the new immigration policies because if you provide the wrong information, you can face some challenges. 

(FAQs)

What is the cost of replacing the BRP Card?

The cost of replacing the BRP Card is typically £56. This covers the administrative expenses of issuing a new card. Be mindful that this fee may change depending on immigration policies. So, checking the updated information on the official website is suitable for paying the correct cost.

How much does a BRP Card take to process?

The processing time for BRP Card Replacement can vary from eight weeks to more. However, applicants can get their card at the exact time if they provide the correct details, and the number of applications are more in the home office. Moreover, applicants can use expedited services to get their care urgently by paying additional charges.

Can I work while waiting for the replacement of my BRP Card?

Yes, applicants can work while waiting for the replacement of the BRP Card. In this situation, applicants will show their immigration status or visa to continue working. Plus, applicants must keep a copy of their BRP replacement card. Once you tell your employer about it, the employer can check your eligibility to work by using the home office website right-to-work. 

What should I do if my BRP Card expires soon?

  • First, check your visa status. If it is still valid, go for a BRP replacement. However, if its validity is about to end, first renew your visa. 
  • Collect your previous BRP card, immigration status, and passport.
  • Go and perform biometric verification and submit the application along with all the supporting documents.