Why do you need a NI number?

A National Insurance (NI) number is used by the government to track your taxes and National Insurance contributions. Everyone who wants to work in the UK will need one. If you don’t have an NI number, you will pay a higher emergency tax rate.

Applying for an NI number is a time-consuming process involving long phone calls and a fair amount of waiting. With our Easy NINO service, we do all the hard work for you, providing assistance throughout the process.

Is this the first time you're applying for an NI number?

If you hold a visa or a passport that gives you the right to live and work in the UK and you have never applied for your NI number before, then this is the option for you. We answer any query you have within four hours and are always available via online chat during work hours.

How to get your NI number

  1. You’ll complete our easy online application form
  2. We’ll register your details with the Department of Works and Pensions (DWP) and send your application form directly to you or have your Evidence of Identity interview booked.
  3. We'll advise you on what documents you'll need to submit to the DWP to ensure your application does not get rejected.
  4. Once your application has been submitted or your interview attended, you'll receive your NI number within 16 weeks.
  5. If you don’t receive your NI number within 16 weeks, we will advise you on what action to take next.

Please note this waiting period has been extended due to the pandemic.

We help you by:

  • Registering your details with the Department for Work and Pensions
  • Assist with filling in and submitting the form correctly so you don't make mistakes or have to re-apply
  • Booking your evidence of identity appointment (Irish nationals only)
  • Advising you on what to take to your appointment to ensure success
  • Advising and answering any issues or queries you face along the way 
  • Follow up if you don't receive your NI number
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Do I have to be in the UK to apply for an NI number?

Yes, it is a requirement by law that you have to be physically present in the UK in order to start the process of obtaining your NI number. We ensure that your details are registered with the DWP and will email you with the date of your Evidence of Identity (EOI) interview on the same day you arrive in the UK.

Applying for an NI number on your own is a time-consuming process sometimes involving long, expensive phone calls and a fair amount of waiting. Our NI number service takes all the hassle out of this process. We make the calls and assist you with all the paperwork. Our support team will be on hand throughout the process to answer any questions you may have along the way.

Get help with your NI number

National Insurance number FAQs

Trying to get your own National Insurance number sorted can be tricky. Below are the answers to some of the most common questions we receive regarding NI numbers. Should your question not be featured below, feel free to get in touch with one of our advisors who will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Are you able to fast track my NI number application?

Unfortunately, not. It is important to note that no company can fast track NI number applications as the Department for Work and Pensions does not allow for any application fast-tracking. If you get told that your NI number can be fast-tracked this should raise your suspicions and we would not recommend paying for any 'fast track' services.

Do I really need an NI number? Friends have told me that they worked for years without one.

In short, yes. While you can work for some time with a temporary NI number, the practice of using these numbers to claim back tax is no longer allowed. You will need a permanent NI number to claim back overpaid tax at the end of the year.

Many employers won’t employ those who don’t have an NI number, so it’s best to get it sorted as soon as possible to avoid losing out on potential employment opportunities.

Can I apply for an NI number before I arrive in the UK?

No, it is a requirement by law that you have to be physically present in the UK in order to start the process of obtaining your NI number. We ensure that your details are registered with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and will email you with the date of your Evidence of Identity (EOI) interview.

What happens if I forget or lost my National Insurance number?

Your National Insurance number is issued to you for life, so even if you move out of the UK and return 20 years later, your NI number will remain the same. If you forget your NI number and don’t have any documents like P60s, P45s or old pay slips to refer to, you will need to go to  this online form on HMRC's website. Once you’ve completed the form, you will need to print it out and post it back to HMRC, who will then process the form and post your NI number to your UK address. It takes about two weeks for the letter with your NI number to be posted out to you.

What is the National Insurance contribution? Is it like tax?

National Insurance contributions are compulsory deductions taken by your employer from your earnings and given to the UK pension scheme. These contributions are separate to regular income tax and are very similar to the compulsory superannuation payments in Australia. The UK pension scheme will use these funds to pay out to retired UK citizens eligible to draw a pension.

Can I apply for my NI number before I start working?

Yes, you can. In fact, it’s better to apply for the number as soon as you possibly can after your UK arrival as most employers will ask for this number for payroll purposes.

About Sable International

We’ve been helping people start their lives in the UK for over 20 years. Many of our team members have lived and worked in the UK themselves; they understand the frustrations of relocation. We go out of our way to make your move to the UK as easy as possible.

Disclaimer: Please note we are a private company not affiliated with the Jobcentre plus, UK government or any government body. We charge a fee for our service which involves assisting your application and making the necessary appointments. To apply for free visit https://www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number.

Get your NI number

What you need to complete this form:

Your passport

Your UK visa details (if you have one)

UK address and post code (Can be added later)

A credit or debit card

One/Two minutes

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Note: NI numbers can only be received in the UK