family visa--biometrics.

with a family visa application ( dependant child )---are the biometrics required before the decision is given ?

I would say yes as it is a process from application to successful decision they will then instigate the printing of a BRP card for when your wife’s boy arrives in UK

but--biometrics before decision--? Is that how it is with all settlement visas now ?

Yes,Without biometrics information, your visa will not be processed. They are a mandatory part of your UK Visa application. Even after you have completed and submitted your application and paid the fees... nothing will happen until you attend your Biometric appointment.

ok--thanks--that settles a heated discussion at home !

Google it” do I have to do biometrics before my visa decision”

@bigmac , @Mattecube was right .Enrolling the Biometric information is part of the process, this was the email sent to me by the home office when I did my settlement visa .

(As part of your online application, you were informed that you have to enrol your biometrics within a specified time frame. You must now return to your online application to book and attend an appointment at a UK Visas and Citizenship Application Service point to provide your evidence and enrol your biometrics (fingerprints and facial photograph).

Your application may be rejected as invalid if you do not provide your biometric information.
This will apply even if you have provided all the other relevant information, documentation and payment required to validate your application.