Undoubtedly, losing important documents can be a distressing situation. It becomes even more complex when the document in question is your UK biometric residence permit (BRP). This crucial card serves as an identity verification tool and proof of immigration status. If your BRP is lost or stolen, it’s imperative to take immediate action to minimize potential impact and apply for a replacement. This guide will take you through the necessary steps you need to take if you find yourself in such a predicament.
Reporting the loss of BRP
The first action to take after realizing your BRP is lost or stolen is to report the loss to the Home Office. This is essential, as the Home Office will cancel the lost or stolen card to prevent anyone else from using it.
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To report the loss, visit the UK government’s website and navigate to the ‘Report a lost or stolen BRP’ section. You will need to provide some personal details such as your name, date of birth, nationality, and contact information. In addition, you will also be asked to provide information about how and when the card was lost or stolen.
The Application Process for a Replacement BRP
After reporting the loss, the next step is to apply for a replacement BRP. The application process will vary depending on whether you are within the UK or outside the UK when you lose your card.
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If you are in the UK, you must apply for a replacement BRP within three months of the loss. For this, you will need to complete an online form and pay a fee of £75.20. The application process involves providing biometric information (fingerprints and a photo). You will receive a letter asking you to either go to a post office or a visa premium service center to have your biometrics taken.
If you are outside the UK when you lose your BRP, you cannot apply for a replacement card from abroad. Instead, you must apply for a ‘replacement BRP visa’, which costs £154 and allows you to re-enter the UK. Once you are back in the UK, you then apply for a replacement BRP.
How Long Does It Take to Receive the Replacement BRP?
The standard processing time for a replacement BRP is up to eight weeks. However, the actual time may vary and could take longer if your supporting documents need to be verified or if you are asked to attend an interview.
During the waiting period, it is important to note that you can still remain in the UK without your BRP, as long as you initially entered the country legally.
What If You Are a Student?
If you’re a student and your BRP is lost or stolen, the process remains the same. However, you need to inform your educational institution about the loss, as they have a responsibility to keep a copy of your visa and BRP for their records. They can also offer support and guidance during this process.
The Impact on Your Immigration Status
The loss of your BRP does not affect your immigration status in the UK. Your visa and immigration status are electronically stored and linked to your passport number. However, without your BRP, proving your right to work, study or access public services in the UK could become more challenging until you get a replacement.
Remember, it is essential to take swift action if your BRP is lost or stolen. Report the loss to the Home Office, apply for a replacement within the required timeframe, and keep communication open with relevant parties such as employers or educational institutions. By following these steps, you can ensure that the impact on your daily life and immigration status is minimal.
Mitigating Potential Risks by Reporting to the Local Police
The loss or theft of your BRP card can pose potential threats. It’s essential to mitigate these risks by promptly reporting the loss to the local police. Reporting the loss to the police is particularly important if you suspect that your BRP card has been stolen.
Contact the local police station and provide a detailed account of the circumstances surrounding the loss or theft of the card. The police will issue a crime reference number, which you should note down as this may be required when you apply for a replacement BRP.
After reporting to the police, ensure that you contact the Home Office and provide them with this crime reference number. Also, remember to inform any relevant parties such as your employer, educational institution or any public service you are accessing about the loss of your BRP. This helps you maintain transparency and avoid any potential complications related to your immigration status.
Remember that reporting the loss to your local police does not replace the requirement to report the loss to the Home Office. Both steps are critical and fulfill different purposes in the replacement process.
Applying for a British Citizenship after Losing Your BRP
Losing your BRP can be a stressful experience. However, it should not deter you from your plans to apply for British citizenship if eligible. The loss of a BRP does not impact your immigration status or ability to apply for citizenship. Your visa and all related immigration information are electronically connected to your passport.
When you apply for British citizenship after a BRP loss, you must provide evidence of your immigration status. This can be in the form of a replacement BRP. It’s important to note that you’ll need to have your replacement BRP before you can successfully apply for British citizenship.
Remember, you should apply for a replacement BRP within 3 months of the loss if you’re within the UK. If you’re outside the UK, apply for a ‘replacement BRP visa’ to re-enter the UK, then apply for a replacement BRP.
In Conclusion
The loss or theft of your BRP can indeed be a worrying situation. However, with immediate and proper action, you can minimize the impact and complications. Always remember to report the loss or theft to the Home Office and your local police first.
Then, depending on your location, apply for a replacement BRP or a ‘replacement BRP visa’. The process can take up to eight weeks, but you can legally stay in the UK during this period. Make sure to inform relevant parties such as your employer or educational institution, and keep all communication channels open.
What’s important to remember is that the loss of your BRP does not affect your immigration status. Whether you’re planning to study, work, access public services, or even apply for British citizenship, you can continue with your plans once you have your replacement BRP. The key is to act promptly and follow the necessary steps to report the loss and apply for a replacement.
