Biometric residence permits (BRP) to be issued in the Philippines from 31 May 2015
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Starting at the end of May 2015, non-EEA national visa applicants in the Philippines will be issued Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) if travelling to the UK for more than 6 months. These changes will affect workers seeking employment visas, students applying for Tier 4 visas, and nationals applying to join their families in the UK.

From 31 May 2015, a sticker valid for 30 days will be put in the passports of applicants instead of a ‘vignette’ with the full grant of leave. Applicants will receive a detailed letter explaining how they can collect their BRP on arrival. They must collect their BRP within their 10 days in the UK from a post office. The BRP card will provide evidence that the applicant has the right to work, study, and access public services across the nation.

What is the purpose of the BRP?

Biometric resident permits will provide proof of your immigration status. You will need it as evidence of your entitlement to work, access benefits, or utilise public services in the UK.

Who does the change affect?

The change will only affect the following: non-EEA nationals travelling to the UK for 6 months or longer; those joining family in the UK; or students and workers applying for a Tier 4 student visa and employment visa, respectively. You will not need a BRP if you are applying to go on a short business trip, study trip, or holiday, as a simple visit visa will suffice.

After 31 May 2015, will the rules for visa applications be the same?

The application process is basically the same. However, if travelling to the UK for over 6 months, you will need to provide additional information during the online application process, including the postcode of your new address abroad. The biggest difference is that you will need to go and collect your biometric residence permit from a post office within 10 days of arrival in the UK.

Does it cost more money?

There are no extra fees; the visa application fee is fixed.

What if I don’t have a solid travel date in place?

You must provide an accurate travel date as part of the visa application. This is important as you will be granted a 30 day travel window based on the information provided in your application. Ensure that you know your travel dates to the UK before application. Your temporary visa will only be valid for 30 days upon receipt and you need to travel within this time frame. You will need to apply for a replacement if you receive your temporary sticker and become unable to travel during the 30 day window.

What happens if my travel date changes after I receive my 30 day sticker?

You will need to apply for a short term vignette if it expires before you travel.

Where do I pick up my BRP?

When you supply your new UK address on your application form, a specific Post Office branch in the area will be designated to you for collecting the BRP in your decision letter.

Rules recently published on gov.uk. Image credit to sapeople.com.

PHILIPPINES: Visa process changes for applicants staying in the UK for more than 6 months
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