Losing your BRP card as a UK student isn't just annoying—it can put your studies, travel plans, and visa status at risk. But the good news? You can fix it, and it's more straightforward than you might think.
This guide shows you exactly what to do when your BRP is lost in the UK, how to replace it, how much it costs, and what not to forget along the way. Get best guidance from 7 Sky Consultancy on how to get back or renew your last card.
What Is a BRP and Why Students Must Not Ignore It
Let's keep it real—your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) isn't just a plastic card. It's the key that proves your legal status in the UK.
If you're a student, your BRP tells officials you're allowed to study, work part-time, and live in the UK legally. Losing it means losing access to those rights—until you replace it.
Here's what the BRP card includes:
- Your full name, date of birth, and photo
- Your visa type and expiry date
- Your right to work or study
- Your access to public services
If you lose it, you're required to take action quickly. And yes, it's serious—you must not delay.
Report Your Lost BRP Immediately (It's a Legal Requirement)
The first thing you do is report your lost BRP card. No skipping this. Once it's reported, the card becomes invalid—even if you find it later under your bed.
To report lost BRP UK, go to the official GOV.UK website:
- Visit the BRP lost or stolen page
- Complete the short online form
- Submit your details (name, DOB, nationality, and when the card went missing)
If the BRP was stolen, report it to the police and ask for a crime reference number. You'll need that for your replacement application.
You have to do this step before applying for a new BRP. Don't skip it, or your application won't move forward.
Apply for a BRP Replacement Within 3 Months (No Delays Allowed)
After you report it, your next move is to apply for BRP replacement UK. And yes—you must do this within 3 months of losing it. Miss that window and your visa may be affected.
Here's how to apply for BRP replacement UK:
- Visit gov.uk/replace-brp
- Choose "lost/stolen" as the reason
- Fill in your personal details
- Upload documents if needed
- Pay the replacement fee
- Book a biometric appointment (if required)
Documents you may need:
- Your valid passport
- Police report (if stolen)
- Proof of your UK address
- Home Office email confirming the report
Once you submit everything, you'll get an email with next steps. Sometimes you'll need to attend a UKVCAS appointment for fingerprints. Other times, your application moves forward online.
How Much Does a Replacement BRP Cost?
Students always ask, "How much does it cost to replace a lost BRP?" It's a fair question, especially on a tight budget.
Here's a breakdown of the BRP replacement cost UK:
| Type of Replacement | Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard service | Approx £19 |
| Premium (if offered) | Approx £100+ |
You'll pay this online when you submit the application. Save your confirmation in case you need to follow up later.
Extra costs may apply if you choose courier delivery, need to resubmit biometrics, or want faster processing.
Can You Travel If Your BRP Is Lost?
No—you can't leave or re-enter the UK without a valid BRP. If your BRP is lost, your travel plans must pause until you get a replacement.
Trying to leave or return to the UK without it will lead to delays at the border—or worse, denial of entry.
Now, if you lose your BRP abroad, your process changes. You'll need to apply for a Single Entry Replacement BRP visa to return to the UK.
To apply for a single-entry visa:
- Go to the UK visa application page
- Pay the visa fee (around £154)
- Book a biometric appointment in your country
- Wait for a decision (usually takes 2-3 weeks)
Once you're back in the UK, start the regular BRP replacement process again. One step at a time.
What If You Lost Your BRP Collection Letter?
You haven't even picked up your BRP yet—and now the collection letter is gone? Don't worry, but don't delay either.
Here's what to do if your BRP collection letter is lost:
- Contact your university's visa team or admissions
- Visit the Post Office where your BRP was to be collected
- Provide your passport and visa confirmation
- If they can't locate your BRP, email UKVI for help
The collection letter tells the Post Office to release your BRP. Without it, you may face delays—but you can still collect it with proper ID.
How Long Will Your Replacement BRP Take?
Normally, a replacement BRP takes about 7 to 10 working days after your biometric appointment. In some cases, it may take up to 3 weeks.
To track your application:
- Check your UKVI online account
- Review any emails you received
- Wait patiently—but keep an eye on your inbox
If it takes longer than 3 weeks, use the contact link in your application confirmation email.
What You Shouldn't Do (Common Mistakes to Avoid)
There are a few mistakes that could make things worse. Stay clear of them.
Don't:
- Ignore the missing BRP hoping it'll turn up
- Wait more than 3 months to apply for a replacement
- Travel without proper documents
- Try to use an old BRP after reporting it
Stick to the process and keep your visa status safe.
Quick Checklist for UK Students Who Lost Their BRP
Here's a recap you can screenshot:
- Report the lost BRP online
- File a police report if stolen
- Apply for a replacement within 3 months
- Avoid all travel until you receive your new BRP
- Contact your university for help if needed
- Don't reuse the lost card even if you find it later
Stay on Track After Losing Your BRP
Losing your BRP as a UK student can throw your plans off track. But if you take the right steps—report it, apply fast, and stay informed—you'll avoid trouble and stay within immigration rules.
Follow this 7 Sky Consultancy's guide carefully and keep everything documented. Your replacement BRP will be on the way before you know it.
FAQ's
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1. What should I do if I lose my BRP in the UK?
Report it immediately on the GOV.UK website, then apply for a replacement within 3 months.
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2. How much does a BRP replacement cost?
The standard replacement fee is £19, but premium options may cost more.
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3. Can I travel if my BRP is lost?
No, you must not travel without a valid BRP. Wait until you receive the replacement.
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4. How long does it take to get a replacement BRP?
It typically takes 7 to 10 working days after your biometric appointment.
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5. What if my BRP is lost abroad?
You'll need to apply for a Single Entry Replacement BRP visa to return to the UK.
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6. Who can help me with the replacement process?
7 Sky Consultancy can guide you through every step to ensure fast, accurate BRP replacement.