Obtaining a National Insurance Number

You will need to apply for a National Insurance number but you do not need to have received your National Insurance number before you can start work.

Most students living in the UK receive a National Insurance Number (NINO) on reaching 16 years. Students who do not have a National Insurance Number (including both EEA and non-EEA students) will need to follow the procedure below to obtain one. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Students who are actively seeking work may apply for a National Insurance Number by telephoning the following number:

An interview will be arranged locally (usually within 18 working days) and you will receive a National Insurance Number several weeks thereafter. The whole process should take no longer than 6 weeks.

You will be required to provide evidence that you are actively seeking work, for example:

• Letter confirming an interview offer
• Letter offering employment
• Two letters indicating that you have been unsuccessful in obtaining work

It is not essential to have a National Insurnace number before commencing work. If you supply employers with your date of birth and your gender, this will enable the to employ you.