What to do if your BRP card is lost or stolen?
So, your BRP (Biometrics Residence Permit) card has been lost or stolen... What do you do?
Applying for a new BRP card (or a new visa to enter the UK) is not cheap OR easy, especially if you are outside the UK when it is lost or stolen!
- First, you should conduct a thorough search of all your baggage, clothes and bedding. Better to ensure it is actually gone, before you start the process of applying for a new one!
- Next, retrace your steps and see if the card has been handed in anywhere. Make sure you stay safe (if you think it might have been stolen while you're travelling outside the UK).
- Go to the local police station to find out if it has been handed in, and if not, report it has been lost or stolen and obtain a police report (you will need a police report in order to apply for a new BRP).
- Go onto the GOV.UK website and report the card as missing. Here is the link where you can complete this step: https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits/lost-stolen-damaged
If you are in the UK: Follow the instructions on the website and apply for a new BRP. DO NOT leave the UK before you have the new BRP replacement in your possession. If you do leave, you will not get back into the UK without applying for a new visa.
If you are outside the UK: Follow the instructions on the website when reporting the loss/theft of your BRP. You will need to have the reference number and a police report in order to apply for a ‘replacement BRP’ visa which will allow you to re-enter the UK without your Biometric Residence Permit.
Applying for a new BRP card and/or new visa could take up to 3 weeks unless you are prepared to pay the priority fee (or the super priority fee), so be prepared to stay overseas until you have the new visa in your hand.
And if all else fails, or you get stuck, be sure to contact us for assistance (yes, we can help with this kind of thing too)!