Losing your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card while studying in the UK can be a stressful experience, especially for international students far from home. This card is essential as it serves as proof of your immigration status and entitles you to stay in the UK for the duration of your study visa. At 7 Sky Consultancy Pvt Ltd, we understand the challenges students face and are here to provide comprehensive guidance on what to do if your BRP card is lost or stolen while in the UK. Our goal is to help students maintain legal compliance and continue their educational journey without unnecessary disruptions.
Understanding the Importance of a BRP Card
A BRP card contains crucial information such as your biometric details (fingerprints and photo), immigration status, and your rights to work or access public services. Losing it not only puts you at risk of legal issues but also disrupts everyday activities like opening a bank account or confirming your student status.
International students, particularly those who acquired a UK study visa from Pakistan, must act swiftly to ensure that their status remains valid. Failure to report a lost BRP card in time could result in fines or complications with future visa applications. That’s why it’s vital to take immediate action and follow the legal steps to replace the BRP.
First Steps After Losing Your BRP Card in the UK
If you lose your BRP card while in the UK, the very first step is to report it to the Home Office as soon as possible. You must report the card lost or stolen online within 3 months, or you may face a fine of up to £1,000 and could be made to leave the UK.
Once reported, your BRP card will be immediately canceled, and you will need to apply for a replacement using the BRP RC form online. It is crucial to note that this replacement is not optional—it is legally required for you to have a valid BRP throughout your stay.
For students who came through 7 Sky Consultancy, we offer step-by-step admission guidance and continued support throughout your academic life, including assistance with issues like BRP replacement.
Documents Required to Replace Your BRP Card
To apply for a replacement BRP card in the UK, you must submit:
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A valid passport or travel document
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A police report or crime reference number if the BRP was stolen
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Your visa or residence permit number
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A digital photo that meets UK visa photo standards
You may also need to attend a biometric appointment, where your fingerprints and photograph will be taken again. Students are encouraged to keep a digital and hard copy of all their documents, especially while on a UK study visa from Pakistan, to ease the reapplication process.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Replacement BRP?
Once you submit your application, it typically takes 7 to 10 working days for the replacement BRP to arrive, though delays can happen. During this waiting period, you are still considered legally present in the UK, but it is advisable not to travel outside the country until you receive the replacement.
Our team at 7 Sky Consultancy will ensure that your paperwork is correctly submitted, avoiding unnecessary delays. We provide a full spectrum of services, from career counselling and application procedures to forex assistance, designed to make your study abroad experience smooth and secure.
Lost BRP Outside the UK: What to Do
If your BRP card is lost or stolen outside the UK, the process is slightly different. You cannot apply for a replacement BRP from abroad. Instead, you must apply for a ‘replacement BRP visa’ to re-enter the UK. This visa allows you to return, after which you can then apply for a new BRP card from within the UK.
To apply for the replacement BRP visa, you will need:
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A valid passport
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A police report from the local authorities where the loss or theft occurred
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Proof of your UK immigration status
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Payment of the visa fee
Once you are back in the UK, you should apply for the BRP replacement card within one month. This two-step process is more time-consuming and costly, so keeping your BRP card safe during travel is of utmost importance.
Fees and Costs Associated with BRP Replacement
Replacing a BRP card comes with associated costs. The standard fee is currently £19, but if you opt for premium services such as faster processing or in-person appointments, the costs can rise significantly.
It is also important to consider additional costs like travel to biometric centers or obtaining new passport photos. As part of our financial aid and scholarship guidance, 7 Sky Consultancy helps students prepare for such unforeseen expenses by providing complete planning and advice.
Tips to Prevent Losing Your BRP Card
While accidents happen, there are practical steps students can take to reduce the risk of losing their BRP card:
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Always store your BRP in a safe, secure place
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Avoid carrying it unless absolutely necessary
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Keep scanned copies stored digitally in secure cloud storage
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Inform your institution and our consultancy team immediately upon loss
Proactive measures not only safeguard your legal status but also provide peace of mind so you can focus on your studies and career goals.
Stay Compliant and Stress-Free with Expert Guidance
Navigating the UK’s immigration requirements can be daunting, but international students don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re applying for a UK study visa from Pakistan or facing an issue like a lost BRP card, timely and informed action is crucial.
7 Sky Consultancy Pvt Ltd specializes in helping students make the transition from Pakistan to the UK seamlessly. We offer end-to-end services that include career counselling, admission guidance, scholarships, application procedures, and expert advice on complex issues like BRP replacement.
Our commitment doesn’t end once you receive your visa—we continue to support our students throughout their educational journey. By staying updated on UK Home Office procedures and student immigration policies, we ensure that every student receives accurate and timely information.
If you’re currently studying in the UK and have lost your BRP card, don’t delay. Take the necessary steps immediately and reach out to your university’s international student office or consult with your educational advisor. Acting quickly and correctly will protect your visa status and avoid legal consequences.
For those planning to study in the UK soon, let our experienced team help you navigate every phase of your journey, starting from visa application in Pakistan to life in the UK.
