To apply for benefits without a N.I. number, contact Jobcentre Plus instead.

If you’re moving to the UK

You may have a NI number printed on the back of your biometric residence permit (BRP). You don’t need to apply for a National Insurance number if you already have one, or one is printed on your BRP.

If you don’t have a National Insurance number, you must apply. You can only apply for it once you’re in the UK. You must have the right to work or study in the UK to get a N.I. number.

Working without a N.I. number

You can start work before your National Insurance number arrives if you can prove you can work in the UK. You should tell your employer that you’ve applied for one, and give it to them when you have it.

National Insurance number interview

Jobcentre Plus may write to you and ask you to come to an interview where you’ll be asked about your circumstances and why you need a National Insurance number.

The letter will also tell you which documents to bring to prove your identity, such as:

• passport or identity card
• residence permit
• birth or adoption certificate
• marriage or civil partnership certificate
• driving licence

You’ll be told at the interview how long it’ll take to receive your National Insurance number.

If you change your address before you receive it, tell the Department for Work and Pensions by contacting the National Insurance number application line.

If you turned 16 and didn’t get a number

You will normally be sent a NI number automatically just before your 16th birthday if you live in the UK.

If you didn’t get one, call the N.I. number helpline if you’re under 20.

Call the National Insurance number application line if you’re 20 or over.