UK Borders Act 2007: sanctions for non-compliance with the biometric registration regulations
This consultation seeks comments on amendments to the code of practice following the extension of the biometric immigration document scheme for overseas applicants.
Under the UK Borders Act 2007, the Home Secretary must consult members of the public before re-issuing the code of practice about the sanctions for non-compliance with the biometric registration regulations.
When non-EU citizens living in the UK have their leave extended to more than 6 months, the Home Office gives them biometric immigration documents (BID).
From February 2015, the Home Office will also start giving BIDs in phases to non-EU citizens who’ve applied successfully from overseas for leave to enter the UK for more than 6 months. This extension complies with the European Council Regulation (EC) No. 1030/2002 of 13 June 2002.
The current code of practice only covers applications for a BID from within the UK. The code needs to be updated to include:
- overseas applicants
- the requirement to collect the BID from a post office
- sanctions for people who fail to collect
Successful applicants must collect the BID from a post office branch as soon as possible after they arrive in the UK. This makes sure that:
- the applicant receives the best customer service
- security standards are high
During the application process, applicants will be guided to a post office branch that is very close to wherever they plan to stay in the UK.