Bermudians who travel to the UK for longer than six months and do not have a British passport must obtain a Biometric Residence Permit, Government confirmed this evening.

The new rules, which are being rolled out in other countries including the Cayman Islands, will take effect in Bermuda from May 31.

The BRP card is a credit-card sized immigration document that contains a secure embedded chip. Fingerprints and a digital photo within the chip contain biometrics unique to each individual.

The BRP provides evidence of the holder’s immigration status in the UK. It can be used as proof of right to work, study and access public services in the UK.

“While the Bermuda public was alerted to this matter from an announcement made by the Cayman Islands, the actual effective date for Bermuda is May 31,” said chief immigration officer, Dr Danette Ming.

“Under the direction of the Deputy Governor’s Office a formal public announcement in Bermuda was on the point of issuing.”

As of March 18 BRPs for non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals travelling to the UK for more than six months began to be issued in phases according to country.

Bermudians possessing a British Citizen Passport will not be impacted by the change.

“As before, Bermuda passport holders will be able to travel to the UK for up to six months without a visa but, if they want to stay longer, they need to get a BRP,” said Dr. Ming.

“To completely avoid the requirement for a visa for an intended stay in the UK longer than six months, the remedy is for that person to obtain a British Citizen passport.”

For more information on how to apply for a BRP go to: www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits