The National Insurance Number (NIN), formerly also known as NiNo, is required if you want to open a bank account, start working or just require health services (NHS).
You must apply online for a NIN on the government homepage.
The UK National Insurance Number consists of two letters, 6 digits and a final letter. The final letter is either a A, B, C or D. So the number should look like
GB 12 34 56 A
PREFIX: For the prefix (first two letters) specifies the series and excludes the letters D, F, I, Q, U and V. The letter O will never show as second letter in the prefix to not be confused with a 0 (zero). Certain combinations of letters are also not used like GB, BG, KN, NK, NT, TN and ZZ.
NUMBERS (6 digits): The numbers are issued in sequential pairs of two for easier readability.
SUFFIX: The suffix is done in a single letter which must be an A, B, C or D. No other letter will be shown here.
The government doesn’t issue cards (like shown above) anymore, be aware that you ONLY get a letter with the NIN provided. The DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) phased them out after September 2010 and ceased them completelyl in October 2011.
You will find your National Insurance Number normally on your payslip, P60 form, the HMRC (His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) account / app, tax letters. Keep in mind, it’s NOT a prove of identity or right to work in the UK.
Who can apply for a National Insurance Number (NIN)
There are some requirements to apply for a National Insurance Number (NIN)
- you must be living in the UK
- you must have the right to work in the UK
- you are working, search for work or got an offer to work in the UK
As British citizen you normally get the National Insurance Number when you turn 16. If you got already a National Insurance Number you don’t need to apply for one even if your details change or any circumstances change. The National Insurance Number you get provided once remains the same for a lifetime.
When Do you not need a National Insurance Number
If you are an EU citizen and apply for the settlement scheme you don’t need a National Insurance Number.
If you have a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or eVisa
If you have a BRP or eVisa you might have already a National Insurance Number. You can find it online in your government account or in the app.
If you already applied for a National Insurance Number
Be aware that it might take up to four weeks before you get the letter with your National Insurance Number after your identity is proven. You won’t get a plastic card issued anymore, this service stopped years ago, you will only get a letter which quotes your new National Insurance number. Keep this letter safe, the NIN is important for you. You can call the helpline under 0800.141.2079 (for England, Scotland and Wales) if you
- applied more than 4 weeks ago
- moved house or residence after applying
- your personal details changed after applying
After application you will receive a confirmation email with a reference number. The email will also tell you if additional information or prove of identity is required. You have to provide this reference if you call the helpline. So keep the email safe, best way is to flag it. Without the reference number the helpline won’t give you any information or details.
How to apply for a National Insurance Number
What documents are required to apply for the National Insurance Number?
You will require
- a passport of any country (valid for at least 6 month)
- a national identity card (like the German Personalausweis) from a EU country or Norway, Lichtenstein or Switzerland.
You might need to enter details of at least one of those documents. There is also an app available (as far as I know only for Apple devices atm.) that you can prove your identity with. If you don’t have any of this documents at hand or they are no longer valid you must attend a visit in person to a Jobcentre for an interview and to prove your identity. If you are in the UK already and have a British Driving license, this one won’t be accepted as prove of identity online but at the personal interview.