What is Biometric Residence Permit? Definition & Guide
A physical card containing the holder's biometric data (fingerprints, photograph) that proves their right to reside in a country.
A biometric residence permit (BRP) is a card issued by a country's immigration authority that contains the holder's photograph, fingerprints and immigration status information. It serves as proof that the holder has permission to live, work or study in that country.
For Golden Visa applicants, the BRP is typically issued after the initial application is approved. The applicant must attend an in-person appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph. This appointment usually takes place at an immigration office, consulate or visa application center in the host country.
The BRP contains a chip with the holder's biometric data, their immigration category, the expiry date of their permission to stay, and whether they can access public funds or work. In EU countries, the card format follows a standardized design under EU regulations.
Renewal of the BRP is required at set intervals, typically every one to two years for Golden Visa holders, depending on the program. The renewal process usually requires another in-person biometrics appointment, which means at least one trip to the host country per renewal cycle.
Why It Matters for Golden Visa Applicants
The BRP is the physical proof of your Golden Visa status. Without it, you cannot re-enter the host country, access public services or demonstrate your legal residency. Renewal requires an in-person biometrics appointment, which means at least one trip to the host country per renewal cycle. Lost or stolen BRPs require a replacement application that can take several weeks.
Example
"After her Portugal Golden Visa was approved, she attended a biometrics appointment at SEF in Lisbon to receive her biometric residence permit."