India: changes to visa process for applicants travelling to UK for more than 6 months
Biometric residence permits to launch in India.
From today (15 April 2015) Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) for non-EEA nationals travelling to live in the UK for more than six months will begin to be issued to visa applicants in India. The changes will affect those applying to join family in the UK, as well as students and workers applying for a longer stay visa.
From this date, applicants will receive a 30 day sticker in their passport instead of a ‘vignette’ with the full grant of leave. The 30 day vignette will be dated from an applicant’s intended date of travel.
Applicants will be required to collect their BRP from a designated post office within ten days of arrival in the UK. The BRP card can then be used as proof of the right to work, study and access public services in the UK. The card will also need to be presented when travelling in and out of the UK, along with a valid travel document.
BRPs will be introduced globally throughout 2015, in line with European Council regulations.
Applicants will receive a letter, at the same time as they receive their visa, which provides detailed information about how to collect their BRP on arrival. See here for further information for overseas visa applicants.
Frequently asked questions
Will this affect me?
The change will only affect non-EEA nationals travelling to the UK for more than six months, such as those applying for a Tier 4 student visa, employment visa or to join family in the UK. 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.
How do I apply for a visa after 15 April?
The application process is largely the same. If you want to go to the UK for more than six months, you will be asked for additional information when you complete your online visa application, which will include the postcode of your new address in the UK. The main differences are:
- your visa will only allow you to enter the UK for the first time during the 30 day period from your intended date of travel.
- when you arrive in the UK, you will need to go to a post office to collect your residence permit.
How much will this cost?
There is no additional fee and the visa application fee remains the same.
I’m not sure what date I will travel to the UK, what should I do?
Make sure you know the date you will travel to the UK before you apply. Your temporary visa will only be valid for 30 days once you receive it and you will need to travel within this period. If you receive your temporary sticker, and can’t travel during the 30 day window, you will need to apply for a replacement.
What happens if I decide to change my travel date after I receive my 30 day passport sticker?
If the short term vignette has expired or will expire before you travel then they will need to apply for a new short term vignette.
How will I know where to collect my BRP?
When you apply for your visa you will be asked for the first part of the postcode of your new address. You will be given the details of the post office when you receive your decision letter.
What can I use the BRP for?
The purpose of the BRP is to provide evidence of your immigration status. You will need to show it to demonstrate your entitlement to work or to access benefits or public services.
How can I find out more?
Click here for further information and full guidance.
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