Expiring BRC (pre settled status)

[Christ27]

Hi all, looking for some advice please!

My wife has pre-settled status (until 2026) but has just noticed her BRC is expiring in 2 days. She was planning to travel next week, would this cause her a problem returning to the UK? She has a Brazilian passport.

Thanks for your help.

[alterhase58]

On the face of it it shouldn't be a problem as BR citizens can enter the UK "visa free", but can still be questioned at the border, then show expired BRC and explain.
If the airline asks for "resident visa" then showing an expired BRC may be an issue, they might refuse boarding.

[Christ27]

Yeah I think at the border would be fine as they will be able to see her status is still valid - I managed to speak to immigration this morning and they also said just to bring the expired document.

They obviously couldn’t say what airlines would accept. I tried calling them too but they weren’t too much help. Do airlines usually accept the online status as proof for boarding?

[alterhase58]

Yeah I think at the border would be fine as they will be able to see her status is still valid - I managed to speak to immigration this morning and they also said just to bring the expired document.

They obviously couldn’t say what airlines would accept. I tried calling them too but they weren’t too much help. Do airlines usually accept the online status as proof for boarding?

What happened when wife traveled before?
Airlines normally expect to see a "card" or "visa" certainly for those needing a visa. They don't have access to Home Office online and normally don't accept any paperwork but visa type cards, stamps or vignettes.
If she just shows her passport wouldn't they waive her through, as UK doesn't require a visa?

[Christ27]

She’s always just handed the card over in the past.
When her family members come to visit they don’t have to show any documents.. but then they always have a return flight booked.

[alterhase58]

She’s always just handed the card over in the past. At the Brazil airport? If it's expired they will refuse boarding.
When her family members come to visit they don’t have to show any documents.. but then they always have a return flight booked.

Unfortunately there's no express service for renewing the card ....