How to Replace a Lost Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) was the physical card previously issued to non-UK nationals as evidence of their immigration status, including permission to live, work, or study in the United Kingdom. Although BRPs have now been phased out in favour of eVisas, many individuals still hold valid immigration status originally evidenced by a BRP or may have recently lost their card.

If a BRP is lost, stolen, or damaged, it must be reported to the Home Office. The process for replacing or accessing immigration status now depends on whether the individual holds a valid BRP-linked status or an eVisa digital record.

This article explains the legal and procedural steps involved, including reporting requirements, replacement options, and how immigration status is now verified digitally.

What a Biometric Residence Permit Is

A BRP was an identity card issued by UK Visas and Immigration containing:

• Biometric data (facial image and fingerprints)
• Immigration status and conditions
• Validity dates of leave to remain
• Personal details such as name, nationality, and date of birth
• A unique Home Office reference number

Although BRPs are no longer issued for new applications, many remain in circulation until they expire or are replaced by digital status.

The UK immigration system is transitioning to eVisas, which store status electronically rather than on a physical card.

Legal Requirement to Report a Lost BRP

If a BRP is lost or stolen, it must be reported to the Home Office. Failure to do so can result in penalties, including a fine and potential immigration consequences.

Reporting is required even if:

• The BRP has expired
• The individual is no longer using it for travel
• A replacement is not immediately needed

Once reported, the BRP is permanently invalid and cannot be used again if found later.

Step 1: Report the Lost or Stolen BRP

Where to report

Loss or theft must be reported through the official Home Office reporting service.

The report should include:

• Personal details (name, date of birth, nationality)
• BRP number (if known)
• Circumstances of loss or theft
• Location and date of loss

A confirmation email is usually issued after submission.

Step 2: Determine Whether a Replacement Is Possible

The replacement process depends on location and immigration status.

Inside the UK

In most current cases, BRPs are no longer physically replaced. Instead:

• Individuals are directed to create or access a UKVI account
• Immigration status is provided digitally through an eVisa
• The eVisa becomes the primary proof of status

This reflects the UK's transition away from physical immigration documents toward digital records.

Outside the UK

If a BRP is lost abroad and the individual needs to return to the UK:

• A temporary visa or single-entry permit may be required
• This allows re-entry to the UK
• A UKVI account should be created upon return to access the eVisa

Step 3: Access or Create a UKVI Account

Where a BRP cannot be replaced, immigration status is accessed digitally.

To do this:

• Create a UKVI account on the official government system
• Link identity documents used in the original visa application
• Verify identity using passport details and security checks
• Access the eVisa record once confirmed

This digital record replaces the need for a physical BRP in most situations.

Step 4: Prove Immigration Status Without a BRP

Once a UKVI account is active, status is proved using a share code.

Share codes are used for:

• Right to work checks (employers)
• Right to rent checks (landlords)
• General immigration verification

The process involves:

• Logging into the UKVI “View and Prove” service
• Generating a time-limited code
• Sharing the code with the relevant organisation

The organisation then verifies status directly with the Home Office system.

Step 5: If You Still Have Valid Leave but No BRP

If you have valid immigration permission but no physical BRP:

• Your immigration status remains valid
• The BRP is only evidence, not the legal permission itself
• You must rely on eVisa records for proof

Employers and landlords are required to use the online checking system rather than physical documents in most cases.

Replacement Fees and Historical Process

Historically, replacing a BRP involved:

• Completing an online application form
• Paying a Home Office fee
• Attending a biometric appointment
• Receiving a new card by post

However, this process has been phased out as the system has moved to digital immigration status.

Common Issues After Losing a BRP

1. Difficulty proving status immediately

Before accessing an eVisa, individuals may struggle to:

• Generate share codes
• Prove right to work or rent

2. Delays accessing UKVI account

Issues may include:

• Incorrect contact details
• Mismatch between passport and Home Office records
• Technical account access problems

3. Travel complications

A lost BRP may create difficulties when:

• Boarding flights
• Re-entering the UK
• Passing border checks

Legal and Practical Risks

Failure to properly manage a lost BRP may lead to:

• Immigration compliance issues
• Delays in employment or housing
• Increased scrutiny during border checks
• Administrative penalties for non-reporting

However, immigration status itself is not cancelled due to loss of the BRP; only the evidence of that status is affected.

What to Do if You Find a Lost BRP

If a BRP is found after being reported:

• It must not be used again
• It is considered invalid
• It should be destroyed securely (cut through chip and details) or returned to the Home Office

Practical Guidance

To reduce disruption after losing a BRP:

• Report the loss immediately
• Access or create a UKVI account as soon as possible
• Ensure passport and identity details match Home Office records
• Use share codes for employment or housing verification
• Keep digital records of immigration status confirmation

Key Takeaways

Replacing a lost Biometric Residence Permit is no longer a traditional physical replacement process in most cases due to the UK's transition to digital immigration status. The correct approach involves reporting the loss, accessing or creating a UKVI account, and using an eVisa to prove immigration status. Share codes are used for employment and housing checks, replacing the need for a physical card. While the loss of a BRP can cause short-term disruption, legal immigration status remains valid and is now confirmed digitally.