Changes to visa process for applicants travelling to the UK for more than 6 months
From 18 March 2015, Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) for non-EEA nationals travelling to the UK for more than six months will begin to be issued. The changes will affect those applying to settle in the UK, as well as students and workers applying for a longer stay visa.
From this date, applicants will receive a 30 day ‘vignette sticker’ in their passport instead of a vignette with the full grant of leave. Applicants will be required to collect their BRP from a post office within ten days of arrival in the UK. The BRP card can then be used as proof of 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, such as a passport.
Applicants will receive a letter, if their application is successful, which provides detailed information about collecting their BRP.
The change will only affect non-EEA nationals travelling to the UK for more than six months, such as those applying for a points-based system, or settlement visa.
