Manage my biometric appointment

2. Frequently asked questions: appointments and biometric permits

Appointments

My appointment code doesn't work anymore, what do I do ?

If your code is no longer valid, please contact us via our contact form. Select "Permis de séjour et de travail", then: "Gérer mon rendez-vous biométrique", to request its reactivation.

I couldn't show up for the appointment ans my code doesn't work anymore, what do I do ?

It is not possible to edit an expired appointment. If you were unable to attend your appointment, please contact us via our contact form. Select "Permis de séjour et de travail", then: "Gérer mon rendez-vous biométrique", to request your code's reactivation.

Receiving your permit

What is registered mail ?

Registered mail means that the mail is delivered to you by the postman. If you are not at home when the postman arrives, he will leave a notice in your mailbox.

You will then have to go to the post office indicated on the notice within the time mentioned, with a piece of identification and the notice to withdraw your mail.

What to do if you did not withdraw your registered mail in time ?

If you have not been able to get to the post office within the specified time, the mail containing your permit will be returned to our office within 14 working days, The latter is then returned to you in A+ mail within an additional 10 working days.

If you still haven't received your permit 6 weeks after your appointment, send us a message via our contact form. Select "Permis de séjour et de travail", then: "Gérer mon rendez-vous biométrique".

How can you ensure that you receive the letters addressed to you ?

To ensure that you receive the mail addressed to you, make sure that:

  • The address you have given to the OCPM is still correct. If not, please make the necessary steps to announce a change of address.
  • Your name (according to your passport) and/or that of your minor child is clearly written on your mailbox.
  • if your are staying with another person, you have indicated the name of that person to the OCPM by completing the "C/O" section of the OCPM form.

Biometric data

What biometric data is collected ?

On residence permits for EU/EFTA nationals, as well as Ci and G permits of any nationality*, a photo of your face and your signature are recorded.

*For UK citizens with acquired rights who reside outside Schengen area, fingerprints are also recorded for the issuance of a G permit.

On residence permits for third-country nationals, a photo of your face, your fingerprints and your signature are recorded.

What are the criteria for the photo ?

The photograph that will be taken in our booths should reflect your actual appearance. Prefer simple and plain-coloured clothing, as well as natural makeup if you are wearing it. Hair should not hide the face. It is recommended to limit large and brightly coloured jewellery and accessories.

Uniforms, headgear (including very visible headbands) and sunglasses (including those worn on the head) are prohibited. Exceptions for medical or religious reasons are possible. However, the face should remain visible from the point of the chin to the hairline.

For eyewear, it is essential that the eyes are not masked by the frame. Tinted, coloured or reflective glasses are not accepted. Only dark glasses for the visually impaired are accepted.

Is it possible to reuse biometric data already entered to renew a residence permit ?

Biometric data are valid for 5 years. If the residence permit is renewed during this period, they may be re-used. After this time, they must be re-entered.

Last updated
11 March 2025

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