In November 2008, the UK Border Agency (UKBA) introduced a new system making it compulsory for migrants from outside the European Economic Area and Switzerland to obtain an identity card for foreign nationals (ICFN). The use of these ID cards is being introduced gradually by immigration application type.

From 6 January 2010, ICFN’s are compulsory for all sponsored skilled workers applying to extend their stay in the UK under Tier 2 of the points-based system of immigration, and their dependants. The ICFN replaces putting a vignette in the applicant’s passport.

Biometric information is required in the form of a digital photograph and, for those over 6 years of age, a 10-digit finger scan to obtain an ICFN card. This information is checked against existing records and stored on the card and on the UKBA’s computer system. If successful an ICFN will be issued.

Migrants are able to make postal applications to extend their stay in the UK; they will be able to submit their biometrics by:

1.By making an appointment to attend one of the 11 biometric enrolment centres in the UK

2.By attending one of the 17 Post Office biometric enrolment centres. This method will only be offered to applicants with certain postcodes.

In addition to the postal options above, there is a Premium One-Day Service, where applicants can pay a higher fee and make an appointment to submit their application in person. They provide their biometrics at the same time. This may sound like a quicker process, however there is currently a long waiting list for these premium appointments.

Successful applicants should receive their ICFNs within 10 working days of receiving their decision letter as stated by the UKBA guidelines. The expected time taken to process these applications is four to six weeks.

The UKBA proposes to extend the requirement to obtain an ICFN to highly skilled and temporary workers when they apply to extend their stay under Tier 1 or Tier 5 of the points-based system by the end of 2010.

If you have an immigration issue and you are looking to find an immigration solicitor, Duncan Lewis can help. We offer legal aid and also assist private clients at very competitive rates. All of our

immigration lawyers are level 2 or above accredited and we have a large team that specialise in various parts of immigration law, ensuring that we have the highest expertise in immigration law to help you with your case. Contact Duncan Lewis on 020 7923 4020 for more information.