Are you facing issues with your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) renewal? Unsure about the current BRP renewal fee or application process? Primus Solicitors in Manchester are here to help you navigate it with confidence.
If you’re a visa holder in the UK, renewing your BRP is a vital step to remain legally compliant. A delay or mistake could lead to serious consequences such as loss of lawful residence, denied benefits, or travel restrictions.
This guide explains how to renew a BRP, the current BRP renewal fee, common challenges, and how immigration solicitors can assist—especially if you’re nearing your expiry date.
Need help with your BRP renewal fee, application, or replacement? Our legal experts are ready to guide you through the process with ease and clarity.
📍 Address: First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 Phone: 0161 222 5860
📧 Email: info@ansarhabib.com
🌐 Website: https://ansarhabib.com
🧾 What is a BRP and Why Must It Be Renewed?
A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a physical immigration document issued to non-UK nationals as proof of their legal status. It includes your:
Name and date of birth
Immigration status and conditions
Fingerprints and photo (biometric data)
Validity period
🔁 Why BRPs Need Renewal
BRPs are typically valid for up to 10 years or until the expiry of your leave. However, due to UK security policies, BRPs often expire on 31 December 2024, regardless of your actual visa expiry. This is because of the UK government’s plan to shift to digital status by 2025.
Is There a New Process for Linking BRP and National Insurance Number (NINo)?
Yes, there is now a phased approach in place to better connect Biometric Residence Permits with National Insurance Numbers for some migrants. If you’re aged 16 or over and have been granted leave under any Tier 2/Skilled Worker route or as a refugee, your National Insurance Number will often be printed directly on the back of your BRP.
This linked process means you no longer need to apply separately for a National Insurance Number through the Department for Work and Pensions. Instead, once you receive your BRP, just check the remarks section on the reverse—if your NINo appears there, you’re all set for both your immigration status and working in the UK. This change aims to streamline your transition and simplify the paperwork for both you and your employer.
💷 BRP Renewal Fee in the UK: Updated 2025 Costs
As of 2025, the standard BRP renewal fee for most applicants is:
| Application Type | Fee (2025) |
|---|---|
| BRP Replacement (inside UK) | £56 |
| BRP Renewal (visa extension, FLR, etc.) | £1,048 + £19.20 biometrics |
| Super Priority Service (optional) | £1,000 (additional) |
The BRP renewal fee may vary depending on your application type. Our team at Primus Solicitors can assess your case and give you a fixed quote.
📝 Who Needs to Renew Their BRP?
You need to renew or replace your BRP if:
It’s been lost, stolen or damaged
Your visa has been extended
You changed your personal details
Your BRP is set to expire on 31 December 2024
Consequences of Not Reporting a Lost or Stolen BRP
Failing to report your lost or stolen BRP can land you in some seriously hot water. Not only might you face a substantial fine—up to £1,000—but you could also risk being required to leave the UK. In short, keeping quiet about a missing BRP isn’t worth the trouble it can cause.
Should You Hold On to Your Expired BRP?
Yes, it’s a good idea to keep your expired BRP. Even after it expires, your old card can come in handy for up to 18 months. During this time, you may still be able to use it to prove your right to work or rent, access digital immigration services, or even support future applications to remain in the UK. So, before you toss it in the recycling bin, hang on to it—just in case you need that backup proof while everything updates behind the scenes.
📋 Step-by-Step Process to Renew Your BRP in the UK
✅ 1. Determine Your Application Type
Replacement – for lost or damaged cards
BRP renewal—for an extended visa
Correction—for name or detail changes
What Happens After You Report a Lost or Stolen BRP
Once you’ve reported your BRP as lost or stolen, you’ll need to safely return the card if you’re still in possession of it.
- If you’re in the UK:
Send the BRP back by post using an envelope without a window. Make sure you don’t include any extra documents—only the BRP itself should go inside, as anything else will not be returned. - If you’re outside the UK:
Hand the BRP in to either the local police or drop it off at the nearest British embassy or consulate.
After you’ve reported the loss, you can expect to hear from the authorities within a day—they’ll confirm receipt and explain the next steps.
✅ 2. Apply Online
Use the Home Office online application system.
✅ 3. Pay the BRP Renewal Fee
You will be asked to pay the BRP renewal fee during your online application. This fee is mandatory.
✅ 4. Book UKVCAS Appointment
Attend an appointment to submit biometrics and verify your documents.
✅ 5. Wait for a Decision
Standard BRP renewals may take up to 8 weeks unless you choose super priority.
BRP Delivery and Notifications
Once your renewal is approved, you’ll receive an email from the Home Office confirming your BRP application was successful. Before your card arrives, they will send you additional updates with tracking details so you can monitor the delivery progress.
The BRP itself is dispatched via Royal Mail and usually arrives within a few days after approval. There’s no need to sign for it—Royal Mail will simply deliver your BRP through your letterbox. Keep an eye on the tracking, and as always, make sure to check your mailbox regularly until the card arrives.
Can You Contact UKVCAS or the Home Office for Updates?
It’s natural to want updates on your BRP renewal, especially if you’re anxious about upcoming travel or work commitments. However, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) service does not typically provide status updates or a way to expedite the decision once your application is submitted. You’ll need to wait for their official communication—updates are not available, even if you contact them directly.
Contacting the Home Office is only recommended if:
- You face an emergency that requires urgent travel (such as a medical crisis).
- Your current BRP is about to expire and you must travel before it’s renewed.
For general inquiries, you may reach the Home Office at 0300 790 6268 (Option 2), Monday to Thursday from 9 am to 4:45 pm (until 4:30 pm on Fridays). Be prepared to provide supporting documentation if you claim an emergency; even so, there’s no guarantee that this will expedite your application. The process remains largely opaque, and there are currently no formal tracking facilities for your BRP renewal status.
Patience is key—rest assured, your next steps will be communicated directly by UKVI in due course.
⚠️ Mistakes to Avoid During BRP Renewal
Applying after your BRP expires
Skipping biometric appointments
Incorrect supporting documents
Ignoring the 31 December 2024 cut-off
The BRP renewal fee is non-refundable, so errors can be costly. Our team at Primus Solicitors Manchester offers a document-checking service to avoid rejection.
🧑💼 Why Choose Primus Solicitors for BRP Renewal?
As experienced immigration solicitors in Manchester, we offer:
Accurate BRP renewal application assistance
Full support with document submission
Fast-track service guidance
Clear advice on BRP renewal fees
We’ve helped hundreds of clients manage the BRP renewal process quickly and successfully. Visit https://ansarhabib.com to schedule a consultation.
🧠 Case Study: Late BRP Renewal Nearly Caused Visa Issues
Client: Skilled Worker Visa holder from Turkey
Problem: Missed renewal deadline; visa at risk
Fee Paid: Super Priority + BRP renewal fee
Solution: Primus Solicitors acted urgently and helped submit the correct documents within 48 hours.
Need help with your BRP renewal fee, application, or replacement? Our legal experts are ready to guide you through the process with ease and clarity.
📍 Address: First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 Phone: 0161 222 5860
📧 Email: info@ansarhabib.com
🌐 Website: https://ansarhabib.com
❓ FAQs – BRP Renewal Fee in the UK
🔹 What is the BRP renewal fee in the UK?
The standard BRP renewal fee is £56 for replacements and over £1,048 for renewal linked with visa extension.
🔹 How soon should I apply to renew my BRP?
You should apply at least 1 month before expiry to avoid being without legal status.
🔹 Can I travel while waiting for my BRP?
It’s not advisable. You need your BRP to re-enter the UK.
Can you use an expired BRP for travel?
No—you cannot travel using an expired BRP. Attempting to do so may lead to complications at the border and prevent you from re-entering the UK. Always ensure your BRP is valid before making any travel plans.
🔹 What if I miss my renewal deadline?
Your visa could be curtailed. You’ll have to pay the BRP renewal fee again if you reapply.
🔹 Is the BRP renewal fee refundable?
No. If your application is rejected, you won’t get your BRP renewal fee back.
🔹 Do I need to renew my BRP if my visa lasts beyond 2024?
Yes, you’ll still need a valid BRP card or digital status post-2024.
🔹 Can I pay a higher BRP renewal fee for faster service?
Yes. The Super Priority Service costs an additional £1,000 on top of the BRP renewal fee.
🔹 Where can I get help with my BRP application?
Our Manchester immigration solicitors provide expert help with every step of the process, including BRP renewal fee advice.
📞 Contact Primus Solicitors Manchester Today
Need help with your BRP renewal fee, application, or replacement? Our legal experts are ready to guide you through the process with ease and clarity.
📍 Address: First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 Phone: 0161 222 5860
📧 Email: info@ansarhabib.com
🌐 Website: https://ansarhabib.com
👉 Call or email us now to ensure your BRP is renewed on time and avoid immigration penalties.
