Changes to Checking Biometric and Frontier Work Permits

Under right-to-rent rules, it's a requirement to check the documents of all adult occupiers (not just tenants) in England. 

How Biometric Residence Card (BRC), Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) and Frontier Worker Permit (FWP) holders evidence their right to rent is changing. 

From 6 April 2022, BRC, BRP, and FWP holders will evidence their right to rent using the Home Office online service only; the presentation of a physical document will no longer be acceptable. 

This means that from 6 April 2022, landlords in England will no longer be able to accept or check a physical BRC, BRP or FWP as valid proof of right to rent, even if it shows later expiry date. 

Landlords do not need to retrospectively check the status of BRC, BRP or FWP holders who entered into a tenancy agreement up to and including 5 April 2022. 

Landlords will maintain a statutory excuse against any civil penalty if the initial checks were undertaken in line with the guidance applied when the check was made. 

The code of practice for the right to rent.

Last Reviewed

View Related Handbook Page

Immigration Act and Right to Rent

All landlords and agents need to check the identity of all prospective occupiers. Copies of the documents obtained will need to be securely stored. Landlords and agents must not authorise an adult to occupy a property where the adult is not a national of the UK and Colonies or Republic of Ireland, AND who does not have the right to enter or remain in the UK unless the prescribed requirements have been complied with.