Biometric Identity Cards (ID Cards)

What are Biometric Identity Cards (ID Cards) and how will they affect me?

All students who apply to extend their student visa are now required to give biometric information (fingerprints and photographs) so that an ID card can be issued. Visa information will then be held on the ID card and not in the passport.

Once your visa extension application has been sent, you will receive a letter informing you to make an appointment at your nearest Public Enquiry Office so that data can be taken. After 31 January anyone who has applied by post to UKBA will have to use the online service to book a biometric appointment (or go to a Post Office). Each person will have to register with the UKBA booking website before making the on-line application for a biometric appointment. More information at www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/newsarticles/2012/january/71-online-services

In addition, any enquiries about BRPs (errors, delivery problems, reporting loss/theft, etc) will have to be sent in by email to email addresses specified on the web page above.

There is a Public Enquiry Office in Sheffield. You must ensure you arrange your appointment to take place within 15 working days from the date the letter was issued.

If you have any dependants, they will also need an ID card. Dependants will need to attend the appointment with you and give their biometric information, however children under 6 years old do not need to give their fingerprints.

Once data has been taken, the visa application will be processed and the card will be issued. The card and the passport will be returned separately. This is because the card is being issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). If you use the University´s visa extension scheme you will be able to collect the passport and ID card from Level 6, University House. If you submit your visa application yourself, your ID card will be sent via secure mail to your home address.

When leaving and entering the UK, you will need to present both your passport and ID card to the immigration authorities. It is important to keep your ID card in a safe place.

You can find more information on the student ID card on the UKBA website.