Announcement for applicants of the UK Spouse Visa, UK Fiancée Visa, and other UK Settlement Visa.
As of May 31, 2015, UK Visa applicants who plan to stay in the UK for more than six (6) months are required to apply for a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
According to the GOV.UK website, “The change will only affect non-EEA nationals travelling to the UK for more than six months, such as those applying for a points-based system, or settlement visa. If you are applying to go on holiday or on a short business or study trip, using a visit visa, you will not need a BRP. If you are applying for, or already have a long-term visit visa, valid for 1, 2, 5 or 10 years, you will not be affected by the change and can continue to use your visa as normal.”
ECO-Friendly explains that for UK Spouse Visa applicants, UK Fiancée Visa and other UK Settlement Visa applicants, the BRP application shall be applied at the same time the actual online application for the UK Spouse Visa is filed online.
If the application for the UK Spouse Visa, UK Fiancee Visa or other UK Settlement Visa is approved, instructions on how the BRP can be obtained in the UK will be provided and attached to the approval letter.
According to the UKVI Guidance Notes on the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), “The biometric residence permit is proof of the holder’s right to stay, work or study in the UK. It can also be used as a form of identification (for example, if they wish to open a bank account in the UK).”
“The holder is not required to carry their permit at all times, but they must show it at the border, together with their passport, when travelling outside of, and when returning to, the UK.”
Thus, the primary objective of the BRP is to confirm its holder’s identity, his or her right to stay, right to study or work in the UK and right to any public services or benefits you’re entitled to
The BRP shall contain the following details of the UK Spouse Visa, UK Fiancée Visa or other UK Settlement Visa:
- Applicant’s name, date and place of birth
- Applicant’s fingerprints and a photo of your face (this is your ‘biometric information’)
- Applicant’s immigration status and any conditions of your stay
- Whether applicant can access public funds, eg benefits and health services