How to apply for NIN in the UK? Complete explanation of the online process and materials for National Insurance Number

As soon as I landed in the UK and got a job offer, the HR asked: "What is your National Insurance Number?" Many people were confused - where did this number come from, how to apply, and can they go to work without it? Today I will explain the application process of NIN in one go.

What is NIN? Why everyone working in the UK must have one

NIN (National Insurance Number) is a lifelong unique number of "letters + 6 digits + letters", such as QQ 12 34 56 C. It binds your Tax, National Insurance and Benefit records. Pay wages, file taxes, receive Universal Credit, and calculate pension years, all rely on it.

💡 Key point: You can go to work first without NIN , as long as you can prove to your employer that you have the legal right to work (Right to Work, such as showing BRP or sharing code). Don’t turn down an offer just because your number isn’t available.

First, you must be in the UK - you cannot apply from abroad; second, you must have a legal status to work in the UK (work visa, spouse visa, Graduate, BNO, etc. are generally acceptable). Many visa BRP cards actually already have NIN printed on the back. Check it out first. If there is any, you don’t need to reapply.

NIN online application process: 4 steps, free of charge

Now apply for and complete online at GOV.UK. The service is open 24/7 and does not charge any fees (be wary of any third-party websites that charge money for services).

① Fill in personal information : name, date of birth, UK address, contact information.

② Submit identity proof : passport, BRP, or EU/Norway/Liechtenstein/Swiss ID card. Nowadays, identity documents are electronic, and many people need to provide eVisa share code (share code) to prove their immigration status.

③ Complete the identity verification : Follow the prompts to take/upload the ID photo; some applicants need to use the "UK Immigration: ID Check" App to swipe the passport chip and take a selfie for face verification. If does not have any available documents, they can still apply for , but they may be required to make an offline appointment to verify their identity in person.

④ Waiting for the next number : After the identity verification is passed, will take up to about 4 weeks to receive your NIN via letter or online notification.