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Compulsory identity card

Image of an identity card for foreign nationalsThis page describes the identity card you must apply for if you have limited leave to remain in the United Kingdom and you want to transfer your residence permit to a new passport. If your application is successful, you will be given an identity card for foreign nationals instead of a stamp or sticker (also known as a 'vignette') in your passport.

More information

  • How do I apply for an identity card?

    When you apply to extend your stay in the United Kingdom, you must make an appointment to go to one of our biometric enrolment centres to have your photograph taken and your fingerprints scanned and recorded. (This is a quick and clean process.) Your fingerprints and photograph are known as your biometric information.

    If you apply by post, after you have submitted your application you will get a letter from us telling you how to book an appointment to give your biometric information. If you make your application by appointment at one of our public enquiry offices, you will be able to give your biometric information at the same time.

    See the identity cards for foreign nationals biometric enrolment process leaflet (PDF 152K opens in a new window) for further information.

  • When will I get my identity card?

    If you apply by post, the card will be posted to you by secure delivery, separately from the decision about your application and return of your documents. You are advised not to book any non-urgent travel before you have received your card. If you apply at a public enquiry office, the card will be sent to you by secure delivery after your appointment. Identity cards cannot be issued on the same day as your appointment.

    If you have not got your card within 10 working days of the date of your decision cover letter, you should contact us on 0300 123 2412. You cannot ask about undelivered cards in person at our public enquiry offices or biometric enrolment centres.

    You must check the card carefully when you get it, to make sure that all the details on it are correct. If you find a mistake, please telephone 0300 123 2412 within 10 working days of getting the card, or you may be charged for a replacement and have to apply again.

  • How do I use my identity card?

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

    You must show the card to your employer or approved education provider to prove that you are allowed to work or study.

    If you travel outside the United Kingdom during your time here, you may need to show the card to an immigration officer at the border when you leave the United Kingdom. You will need to show it as well as your valid national passport or travel document before starting a journey back, and again when you re-enter the United Kingdom. The identity 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 identity card is lost or stolen?

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

    If your card is lost or stolen, you must apply for another card within three months of reporting the theft or loss using replacement card form ICFN (RC). You can download the form, guide and photo guidance from the right side of this page. If you do not apply, you may face a financial penalty of up to £1,000, or have your permission to stay limited (also known as curtailed).

  • How do I change my personal details on my identity card?

    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;
    • you change your nationality; or 
    • your facial appearance changes significantly.

    If you change any personal details listed above or any details shown on your identity card, you will need to apply for a new card within three months. You must fill in and submit a replacement card form ICFN (RC). You can download the form, guide and photo guidance from the right side of this page. If you do not apply, you may face a financial penalty of up to £1,000, or have your permission to stay limited (also known as curtailed).  

  • What should I do if I change my address, circumstances or approved education provider?

    If you change your address before your identity card is delivered, you should tell us immediately by calling 0870 606 7766.

    If you change your address at any time after you have received your identity card, and you think you are likely to be at the new address for six months or more, you should tell us by writing to:

    UK Border Agency
    Change of Address Team
    11th Floor Lunar House
    Wellesley Road
    Croydon
    CR9 2BY

    Alternatively, you can fax the request to 020 8196 5454.

    You should tell us immediately by calling 0870 606 7766 if:

    • you change your circumstances so you no longer qualify to stay under the immigration rules that were in place at the time we gave you permission to stay in the United Kingdom; or
    • you are a student and you change your course and/or approved education provider.

  • What should I do if the information on my identity card is incorrect, someone has been using my card or it is damaged?

    You should tell us immediately by calling 0300 123 2412 if:

    • you know or suspect that the information the card holds is untrue, misleading or incomplete;
    • you know or suspect that someone has used your card with or without your permission;
    • you suspect that your card has been damaged or tampered with.