Biometric Appointments: What You Need To Know

A 'biometric' is a measurement of a biological characteristic that is unique to every individual. Biometrics can be used to identify people, and to allow for automatic recognition when verifying your immigration status. Any application for leave in the UK is automatically an application for a biometric immigration document (BID), and therefore most visa applications require an appointment for you to enrol your personal biometric information. Examples of BIDs include Biometric Residence Cards and  Biometric Residence Permits. Often, employers request to view these documents in order to verify employees' right to work in the UK.

Who needs a biometric appointment?

You will need to attend a biometric appointment if you are applying for any UK visa that is longer than 6 months. These appointments are a mandatory part of your application, so you must attend in order for your application to be processed. When you submit an application online, you will be directed to a