February 9, 2012 - Foreign nationals applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as settlement or permanent residence, will soon be required to submit fingerprints and a digital photograph in support of their applications.  Parliament approved regulations that will provide successful applicants with evidence of their UK immigration status and entitlements in the form of Biometric Residence Permits starting February 29, 2012.

Though the UK Border Agency plans to increase the number of Biometric Centers, the expected influx of appointments will tax the existing centers’ capacity.  Thus, applicants are encouraged to file for ILR accordingly, allotting sufficient time to schedule their biometric appointment at least two to three months in advance.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in the United Kingdom.  For additional information, please contact GlobalVisaGroup@balglobal.com.