Oh and you cannot apply for a new BRP card from outside the UK. If its lost you apply for a temporary 1 time entry visa, which perhaps will be the same if its expired. Its advised to travel with a valid BRP card. So in your case, get the family with ILR to return to the UK 3 months before the card e...

I'm in a similar situation, BRP card coming up for renewal but I haven't been in the UK much since it was issued due to work, basically coming back every 2 years to 'keep it active'. Although I consider it my main country of residence and maintain a presence there- I do intend to settle eventually. ...