Losing your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) can be a distressing experience, but knowing what to do in such a situation can make the process less daunting.

This blog post will provide you with a straightforward guide on the steps to take when you lose your UK BRP, along with crucial information about the consequences of not reporting a lost or stolen BRP within the specified timeframe.

Photo by Siora Photography on Unsplash

Reporting a lost or stolen BRP

Inside the UK

If your BRP is lost or stolen inside the UK, you must take prompt action. Here are the steps to follow:

If your lost or stolen BRP was valid for 3 months or more, you must do ALL of the following:

1. Report it: You should report the loss or theft of your BRP within three months of losing it. Failure to do so may result in fines of up to £1,000 and potential removal from the UK.

2. Apply for a replacement: You can apply for a replacement BRP after reporting the loss or theft. The Home Office will contact you within one working day of reporting it.

If your BRP was valid for 3 months or less, you must do ONE of the following:

• report it as lost or stolen if you do not intend to remain in the UK after its expiry date
• apply for a replacement if you plan to leave and re-enter the UK within 3 months of its expiry date
• apply to extend your visa if you want to stay in the UK after its expiry date - if granted, you’ll automatically get a new BRP

Outside the UK

If you lose your BRP while outside the UK, the process is slightly different:

1. Report it: You must report the loss or theft of your BRP outside the UK.

2. Apply for a 'replacement BRP visa': You cannot apply for a replacement BRP outside the UK. Instead, you'll need to apply for a 'replacement BRP visa,' which allows you to re-enter the UK once. This visa costs £154.

3. Reapply for a replacement BRP: When you return to the UK, you must apply for a replacement BRP within three months of reporting it lost or stolen, unless you have a valid reason for the delay.

Consequences of not reporting a lost or stolen BRP

Failing to report a lost or stolen BRP within the specified timeframe can lead to significant consequences. You may face fines, potential removal from the UK, and complications with your immigration status. It's essential to act promptly if you find yourself in this situation.

Alternative ways to prove your immigration status

While waiting for a replacement BRP, you can use alternative methods to prove your immigration status. These include:

• Using the Home Office's 'right to work' service for employers.
• Requesting a 'No Time Limit' (NTL) stamp from a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point.
• Requesting a 'No Recourse to Public Funds' (NRPF) letter if you are not eligible for public funds.
• If you need to prove your status to get benefits or use the NHS, tell the government department, local council, or NHS service you’re dealing with that your BRP has not arrived. They will contact the Home Office to confirm your status.
• Prove your right to rent online if needed.

These options can help you continue your daily activities and maintain your immigration status while awaiting your replacement BRP.

Finding your BRP after reporting It lost or stolen

Discovering your BRP after reporting it lost or stolen can be quite a relief, but there are specific actions you should take:

You will not be able to use your BRP if you find it after you report it lost or stolen.

If you're inside the UK:

• Even if you find your BRP, you should still apply for a replacement.
• When your replacement BRP arrives, cut your old BRP into pieces and send it to the Home Office at the provided address. Ensure you destroy your personal details, the royal coat of arms, and the gold biometric chip.

If you're outside the UK:

• You'll need to apply for a 'replacement BRP visa' to travel back to the UK before applying for a replacement.
• Apply for a replacement while in the UK.
• When your replacement BRP arrives, cut your old BRP into pieces and send it to the Home Office at the provided address. Ensure you destroy your personal details, the royal coat of arms, and the gold biometric chip.

Returns Unit
PO Box 195
Bristol
BS20 1BT

Handling someone else's lost or stolen BRP

If you happen to find someone else's lost or stolen BRP, it's essential to handle it appropriately to assist the rightful owner:

Inside the UK:

• Post the found BRP to the Home Office at the provided address without any other items or documents. This ensures the BRP is returned to its rightful owner.

Returns Unit
PO Box 195
Bristol
BS20 1BT

Outside the UK:

• Hand the found BRP to the local police or the nearest British embassy or consulate. They will take the necessary steps to return it to the owner.

Conclusion

Losing a UK BRP can be a challenging experience, but knowing the right steps to take is essential to avoid complications with your immigration status. Always report a lost or stolen BRP promptly, and be aware of the consequences of failing to do so within the specified timeframe.

If you find your BRP after reporting it lost or stolen, follow the appropriate procedures to ensure your immigration status remains secure. Additionally, handling someone else's lost or stolen BRP responsibly is a good deed that can greatly assist others in their immigration journey.

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