Can I travel whilst waiting for my new biometrics card?

I'm a US citizen who lives and works in the UK. I'm on my first spouse leave to remain visa. This was granted in January 2013. Although it expires in July 2016, I understand that as 2.5 years have passed since I got my first visa, I can apply for a second 2.5 year visa.

Normally, I would book the first same-day appointment in Croyden and get it over with, but the next appointment is in two weeks and I am due to go on holiday (within the EU) the next day. I'd rather not delay until I come back from holiday as we're in the middle of applying for a mortgage and have been told we can't proceed with the loan until I have the second 2.5 year visa.

My question is... will the Home Office take my biometrics card away from me? If they do, can I still leave the UK, and more importantly, can I return?

Any help much appreciated!

VeezerSmeezer wrote:My question is... will the Home Office take my biometrics card away from me? If they do, can I still leave the UK, and more importantly, can I return?

If u applying for a new leave they will take your BRP and you will be issued a new one.U wuld need a BRP to return to the UK. Hv u tried looking appointments in other cities ?