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Compulsory identity card

This page explains the identity card you will receive if you apply for an extension of stay in the United Kingdom as a student on or after 25 November 2008. Students successfully applying on form FLR(S) will be among the first to be issued with cards under our scheme to introduce identity cards for foreign national.

For more general information on identity cards for foreign nationals, why we are introducing them and how we are doing this, please see the section on identity cards for foreign nationals.

How do I apply for a card?

From 25 November 2008, when you apply for an extension of your stay as a student in the United Kingdom you will have to make an appointment to go to one of our seven enrolment centres (Croydon, Sheffield, Liverpool, Solihull, Cardiff, Glasgow and Armagh) to have your photograph taken and your fingerprints scanned and recorded (which is a quick and clean process). Your fingerprints and photograph are known as 'biometric information'.

If your application is successful, you will then receive an identity card, which replaces the stickers (known as vignettes) that we previously put in the passports of people who were given permission to stay here. Your identity card will be sent out to you by secure delivery within three to five days. Identity cards cannot be issued on the same day.


How do I use the card?

Your card is proof of your permission to stay in the United Kingdom and shows any conditions you must meet while you are here. It will help official agencies, employers and education providers (such as universities and colleges) to see what you are entitled to. This will enable you to confirm your identity, what rights you have to study or work here and to access public services.

You will need to show it to your employer or education provider to prove that you are allowed to work or study. If you travel outside the United Kingdom during your time here, you will also need to show it at any overseas port or airport before you start a journey back to the United Kingdom and again when you return to this country. The card proves you are allowed to return to the United Kingdom, but it cannot be used instead of a passport or travel document.

What if my card is lost or stolen?

If your card is lost or stolen, you must report the loss or theft to UK Border Agency on 0300 123 2412 as soon as possible. The card will be cancelled.

If your card is lost or stolen, you must apply for another card within three months of reporting the theft or loss of your original card using replacement card form ICFN (RC). If you do not, you may face a financial penalty of up to £1,000.

You will need to use form ICRN to apply for a replacement card. You can download the form, guide and photo guidance from the right side of this page

For more information on what to do if your card is lost or stolen when you are abroad, please see the leaflet on Travelling back to the United Kingdom from abroad without a card.

How do I change my personal details?


You need to tell us as soon as you can if:

  • you change your name, for example because of marriage or deed poll;
  • you change your gender legally or permanently; or
  • your facial appearance changes significantly.

If you change any personal details listed above or any details shown on the identity card you will need to apply for a new card within three months. To do this you should complete and submit a replacement card form ICFN (RC). If you do not, you may face a financial penalty of up to £1,000.

Application forms

Replacement identity card for foreign nationals because of changed personal details or because the card has been damaged, lost or stolen.

See also

Policy & Law