What is Biometric Information?
Biometric information refers to the information about someone’s physical characteristics. The Home Office guidance Biometrics information: introduction, which was published on 06/04/2022, states that the Home Office typically collects the following biometric information:
- A photograph of someone’s face
- Fingerprints
Why does the Home Office want biometric information?
If you have made an application for a visa or settlement, the Home Office will ask for your biometric information. According to their guidance, this is because they would like to:
- Establish and verify your identity
- Confirm that you meet one or more requirement(s) for a visa
- Ensure that you are not on a watchlist or here unlawfully in the UK
You will be invited to book an appointment to give your biometric information at a nearby location. However, some people can give their biometric information through their personal smartphone.
Afterwards, if your application is successful, you will get a document to prove your identity and immigration status, such as:
- A biometric residence permit (BRP)
- A biometric residence card (BRC)
- An eVisa
The rules are changing
The Home Office is going digital and has confirmed that individuals will not need a BRP card from 1 January 2025. The Home Office website states, “You do not need to do anything, and your immigration status will not be affected.” From this point on, you can check your immigration status online instead. Employers and landlords can already check your status online through a share code.
How can we help you?
Our team of immigration advisors are ready to assist you. Contact us today for more information at 0208 995 3556 or info@descartessolicitors.co.uk.
By Tiffany Carpenter
18/09/2023