Apply for a UK National Insurance Number. Getting a National Insurance Number is a crucial step for individuals wishing to work or access certain benefits within the UK.
A National Insurance Number (NIN) is a unique identifier assigned to individuals residing in the United Kingdom. Its primary purpose is to track the contributions made to the National Insurance system, which is essential for various social security benefits. National Insurance Numbers ensure individuals receive the benefits they are entitled to based on their contributions.
2025 Application Updates
Application no longer have to attend a face to face interview. This process was fazed out in 2024. The process has now been streamlined, making it easier for individuals to obtain their National Insurance number without the previous rigorous checks.
However, if there are discrepancies or missing information surrounding your VISA or right to work you may still need to attend an interview.
Application
To apply for a UK National Insurance number, you typically need to demonstrate your right to reside and work in the UK. Start by gathering the necessary documentation—such as passport, residency permits, or application letters.
Begin your application here – Click Here
- Is there a way to fast track my application?
- How much does it cost to get a National Insurance Number?
- I’ve already been issued a number, can I apply for a new one?
- What documents will i need to apply for a National Insurance Number?
- How long does it take to get issued a National Insurance Number?
- How long can i work in the UK without a National Insurance Number?
- Why do i need a National Insurance Number?
- If I leave the UK and return later, will I need to apply again?
- How long is my National Insurance Number valid for?
Is there a way to fast track my application?
No, there is absolutely no way to fast track the issuing of your National Insurance Number. No amount of money would be able to speed up the process. Please be careful of companies online claiming to be able to fast track your application. They are completely false statements and will end up costing you money.
How much does it cost to get a National Insurance Number?
It current does not cost anything to apply for a National Insurance Number via the official route above. There are agencies that will charge you an administraion fee in assisting you in applying.
I’ve already been issued a number, can I apply for a new one?
No, if you already have a number you are unable to apply for a new one. Your national insurance number is for life and cannot be changed. If you already have one you must go down a different route and find your national insurance number.
You can either sign into your government gateway account and print it straight out (quickest way) or phone the HMRC on 0300 200 3500.
If you are unable to request your national insurance number using the above methods you will need to fill in application form CA5403.
What documents will i need to apply for a National Insurance Number?
Below is a list of documents you will need to apply for a National Insurance Number. You will need to bring all the required documents to your identity interview. When you phone the Department For Work and Pensions (DWP) they will tell you which ones they require from you.
- Proof of address
- Proof of photo ID
- Visa information. Letter from home office if you do not have a visa issued yet
- Proof of Dual nationality
- Proof you are looking for work
- Proof you are currently working
- Proof of offer of employment
Proof of photo identification (ID). This would be a driving license, national identity card, and passport.
Proof of address. For proof of address you must use an addressed bank statement, rental contract or mortgage statement. There are other forms of verification such as recent utility bill (Gas, Electricity, Water, Line rental), current council tax bill and/or house or motor insurance certificate. The proof of address must be dated within the past 3 months.
Proof that you are looking for work. You will need to show that you are actively looking for work. This would be evidence such as confirmation of submitted applications; dates of which you handed your curriculum vitae (CV) into companies, correspondence with company with offer work opportunities, job interview attendance, and rejection letters.
VISA information. NON-EU Citizens will need to bring all documentation from the Home Office, biometric residence permits (BRP) card, or VISA stamp in your passport. If you do not have a current VISA due to your application being processed, you will need to bring the letter from the Home Office that states that you are able to work in the U.K. whilst your application is being processed.
Proof of dual nationality. If you have more then one nationality you will need to show evidence of both.
How long does it take to get issued a National Insurance Number?
Once you have phoned the DWP to apply for a National Insurance Number you will generally get an appointment slot within 1-3 weeks of phoning. Waiting times for an appointment greatly depend on your home address location as some ares have a higher demand.
After your appointment you will receive your National Insurance Number in the post within 6-9 weeks. During the appointment you will be given a phone number to call in the event your National Insurance Number does not arrive within 9 weeks.
On average it takes 9 to 12 weeks from the date you first phoned the Department For Works and Pension (DWP) to get your National Insurance Number.
How long can I work in the UK without a National Insurance Number?
Currently you can work in the UK for 9 weeks without a National Insurance Number. You are able to work longer than that without one but you will be charged emergency tax. Emergency tax is a higher tax rate you will be charged so it would be beneficial to get your National Insurance Number as soon as possible to avoid paying more than you should. Some UK employers will require your National Insurance Number straight away.
You will need to explain to your employer that you have applied for a National Insurance Number and there is a waiting period of 6-9 weeks.
Why do I need a National Insurance Number?
National Insurance tax is used to pay for vital services in the UK. The contributions you make go towards free health care at the NHS, your state pensions, unemployment benefits and sickness benefits.
Paying National Insurance is a UK law and is a mandatory payment if you intend on working within the UK. Your National Insurance Number also acts as a reference number when contacting the HMRC to discuss your tax affairs, so it important to keep them updated on any personal details change.
All UK employers will need their employees National Insurance Number to ensure they are paying the correct amount of tax on your behalf. You risk being charged emergency tax if you do not have one.
If I leave the UK and return later, will I need to apply again?
No. Your National Insurance Number is valid for life. You only have to apply for a National Insurance Number once. Your number will not expire even if you leave the UK for a period of time.
How long is my National Insurance Number valid for?
Your National Insurance Number is valid for life. If you leave the UK for even a period of more than 30 years your National Insurance Number will still be valid on your return.
If you have changed your name or UK address you will need to contact the HMRC to update details. You are able to recover your lost National Insurance Number easily by contacting the National Insurance Number helpline.
If you have any questions please leave a comment below, our admin team or our community will be able to help. Please let us know if any of the above information has inaccuracies by sending an email to admin@nationalinsurancenumber.org.
