The UK Visa Biometric Enrolment Process (2026) is a mandatory part of every visa application submitted from outside the United Kingdom. Applicants must provide fingerprints and a digital photograph at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or through the UK Immigration: ID Check app where eligible.
This guide explains what biometrics are, where and how they are collected, the latest Home Office updates for 2026, and what happens after your appointment.
What Are Biometrics?
Biometrics are your unique physical identifiers, fingerprints and facial photograph — used by the UK Home Office to verify your identity, prevent fraud, and link your biometric data to your visa record. You must provide biometrics each time you apply for a UK visa, unless specifically exempt.
Where to Give Your Biometrics
Most applicants must attend an appointment at an authorised Visa Application Centre (VAC).
These are operated by:
- VFS Global: Africa, Asia, Middle East, and selected parts of Europe.
- TLS Contact: Europe, North Africa, and South America.
Some applicants can use the UK Immigration: ID Check App to submit their biometrics digitally, without visiting a VAC. This option is available for certain nationalities and visa types (e.g., renewals or low-risk routes).
Steps in the Biometric Process (2026)
- Book your appointment after submitting your online application.
- Prepare your documents: check your booking confirmation and gather originals or uploads as required.
- Attend your VAC: your fingerprints and photo will be taken; your passport may be retained.
- Receive confirmation: you’ll get an acknowledgement that your biometric data was captured.
- Application processing begins: the Home Office will start reviewing your application.
Biometric Collection Requirements
- All applicants aged 5 and above must provide biometrics.
- Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
- Your biometric data is stored securely and linked to your immigration record.
- Medical exemptions apply for applicants physically unable to provide fingerprints.
Digital Biometric Submission (ID Check App)
Where eligible, you may skip the in-person appointment and complete your identity verification digitally using the UK Immigration: ID Check App. To use the app, you must:
- Have a biometric passport (ePassport) with an embedded chip.
- Download the UK Immigration: ID Check App on a compatible mobile device.
- Scan your passport and take a live facial image following on-screen instructions.
The app securely transmits your biometric and identity data directly to the UK Home Office, saving time and avoiding appointment queues.
After Your Biometric Appointment
Once biometrics are submitted:
- Your application is officially in process with UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI).
- You’ll receive an email confirming that biometrics were collected.
- Most decisions are made within 3–6 weeks, depending on region.
See UK Visitor Visa Processing Times (2026) for current data.
Optional Services at VACs
- Priority & Super Priority services — get a faster decision (see Priority Services 2026).
- Keep My Passport: retain your passport for travel while the visa is processed.
- Document Scanning Assistance: staff can scan and upload your documents on your behalf.
- SMS or email updates: optional notifications about your case progress.
Common Issues at Biometric Centres
- Missing documents – bring your passport, appointment confirmation, and application form.
- Late arrivals – you may need to reschedule if more than 15 minutes late.
- Children’s biometrics – ensure a parent or guardian attends the appointment.
- Technical issues – occasionally biometric scanners fail; staff will reschedule without penalty.
Security & Data Retention
Your biometric information is securely stored under the UK’s Data Protection Act 2018 and may be retained for up to 10 years. It is used solely for identity verification and immigration control purposes.
Related Guidance
- UK Standard Visitor Visa Processing Times (2026)
- UK Visa Application Centres (VFS & TLS Contact)
- UK Visa Digital Upload Guide
- UK Visa Priority Service (2026)
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: 6 January 2026.