How to Apply for a National Insurance Number (UK)
A National Insurance (NI) number is your UK tax and benefits ID. You apply online. You prove who you are. The number comes by post. You can start work before it arrives.
At a glance
- Cost:
- Free (HMRC never charges)
- Total time:
- Up to 4 weeks after proving identity
- Steps:
- 6 steps
- Where to apply:
- gov.uk
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked annually · next review due October 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UK sources(October 2026).
0 of 6 steps
- Before You Go 10 min
Check whether you need one
You need an NI number to work in the UK. You also need one to open a Help to Save account or claim benefits. If you were born in the UK, you may already have one. Check a payslip, a P60, or the HMRC app. You can start work before your number arrives. Your employer can use your share code for now.
Click to mark as done
- Go 15–30 min
Apply online and prove your identity
Apply online at gov.uk. You need to prove who you are. You usually take a photo of yourself holding your passport. You also send photos of your documents. You only need a face to face meeting if you cannot upload photos. There is no fee. Sites that charge a fee are private middlemen. They are not HMRC. Application helpline: 0800 141 2079 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm). Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 141 2079.
Click to mark as done
- Go 1 hour + travel
Attend an in-person appointment (only if asked)
If you cannot upload photos, you may need to go to a meeting in person. You will prove who you are. You will also prove you have the right to work. Bring your passport. Bring your visa or eVisa, or your share code. Bring proof of your address. You will be asked why you need the number. You will also be asked about your job search or your work.
Click to mark as done
- Wait Up to 4 weeks
Wait for the decision letter
If HMRC accepts your application, they send you a letter. The letter has your NI number. It can take up to 4 weeks after you prove who you are. If you have a BRP or eVisa, you might already have an NI number. Check the back of a BRP. Or check your UKVI account.
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- Follow Up 20 min
Chase it if it is delayed
Did you apply more than 4 weeks ago? Have you heard nothing? Call the application helpline. Have your reference details ready. If you start a job while you wait, tell your employer you have applied. They can check with HMRC.
Click to mark as done
- Receive —
Keep the number for life
Your NI number never runs out. It stays with you when you change jobs. Keep it safe. It helps protect you from identity fraud. Only share it with employers, HMRC, or the DWP. Your employer uses it to record your National Insurance contributions.
Click to mark as done
Be Careful
Don't make these mistakes
Paying a website to get your NI number. HMRCHM Revenue & Customs — The UK tax authority. It collects income tax, issues National Insurance numbers, and runs Self Assessment.Click for official info ↗ never charges for an NI numberNational Insurance number — Your UK tax and social security number. You need it to work, pay tax, and claim benefits.Click for official info ↗. Some websites charge £50 to £100 for NI number registration. They are private companies. They just send the same free application. Apply yourself, for free.
Waiting for the number before you start work. You can start work while you wait. It is legal. Your employer can check your right to work with a share codeUK immigration share code — A 9-character code that proves your UK immigration status to an employer or landlord. Generated online, valid 90 days.Click for official info ↗. They record your details. HMRC tells them how to run payroll before your number arrives.
Assuming you do not have one yet. If you were born in the UK, you may already have one. Check a payslip, a P60, or the HMRC app. If you have a BRPBiometric Residence Permit — The card proving your UK immigration status, permission length, and right to work. Being replaced by eVisas.Click for official info ↗ or eVisaUK eVisa — The digital record of UK immigration status, accessed through a UKVI account. Replaces BRPs.Click for official info ↗, you might already have an NI number. Check the back of a BRP, or check your UKVI account.
Sharing the number too widely. Your NI number never runs out, and it stays with you when you change jobs. Keep it safe. It helps protect you from identity fraud. Only share it with employers, HMRC, or the DWPDepartment for Work and Pensions — The UK department for benefits and pensions, including Universal Credit and State Pension.Click for official info ↗.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work before my NI number arrives?
Yes. You can start work while you wait. It is legal. Your employer can check your right to work with a share code. They record your details. HMRC tells them how to run payroll before your number arrives.
Do I have to pay for an NI number?
No. HMRC never charges. Some websites charge £50–£100 for "NI number registration". They are private companies. They just send the same free application. Apply yourself, for free.
I lost my NI number. How do I find it again?
Check a payslip, a P60, the HMRC app, or your Personal Tax Account at gov.uk. Still cannot find it? Fill in form CA5403 and post it to HMRC. They will confirm your number by post within 15 days.
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