Publication date: 05.02.2026
My name is Irina Sidorova and I am a lawyer based in London. I have over 18 years of experience in law and prior to moving to the UK I specialized in litigation, corporate support, contract analysis and drafting, and commercial legal support. My expertise includes a detailed analysis of legislative changes and their effective application to protect clients' interests. Thanks to my strategic approach, knowledge of the law and practical experience, I help to avoid legal risks and achieve stability in legal matters.
The process of obtaining a National Insurance Number (NIN) in the United Kingdom has its own specifics depending on the type of employment, age, and resident status. Citizens and residents who work or run a business do not always receive a NIN automatically: for example, individuals starting work for the first time or becoming self-employed must complete registration for a NIN before submitting their first tax return or before receiving social benefits. At the same time, young people who are not working and have no income may postpone obtaining a NIN, but having one becomes mandatory when starting employment or claiming state social benefits.
Question
How can someone obtain a NIN in the United Kingdom?
Answer
If a person is required to obtain a NIN, the process includes contacting HMRC or the Jobcentre and providing the necessary documents. The main steps include:
- Submitting an application online or by post through the official portal;
- Providing identification documents (passport, visa, residency documents);
- Scheduling an interview or telephone call to confirm identity;
- Receiving a unique National Insurance Number (NIN) by post at the applicant’s address.
Process for those who do not need an immediate NIN:
Young people or students who are temporarily not working may postpone obtaining a NIN until employment begins. It is recommended to keep documents proving residency documents or other proof of status and apply for a NIN at the first point of employment.
If a person disagrees with the results of a check or has doubts about the accuracy of the information, they have the right to appeal through HMRC or the Jobcentre support services, or seek advice from an employment law specialist.
Important documents to have on hand
For effective NIN registration, it is necessary to have:
- Identification documents (passport, visa, residency documents);
- Proof of address in the United Kingdom;
- Documents proving the right to work or study;
- Records of previous social benefits payments (if applicable).
For international residents, it is important to verify that documents comply with UKVI and HMRC requirements.
Question
What should be done in case of problems obtaining a NIN?
Answer
If a person has not received a NIN on time or identifies errors in the documents, they should:
- Contact the Jobcentre or HMRC immediately to clarify their status;
- Provide all necessary documents for verification;
- Obtain advice from an employment law specialist if needed;
- Keep personal records of all correspondence and applications with the authorities.
- Timely NIN registration helps avoid problems with employment, social benefits, and tax authorities.
Important to know
Obtaining a National Insurance Number is critically important for residents of the United Kingdom. The absence of a NIN can lead to delays in receiving salary, social benefits, and fulfilling tax obligations. Using template forms or incorrectly completing documents may result in refusal or delays in issuing the number. Regularly updating information with HMRC and ensuring accuracy helps maintain the stability of financial and social benefits payments and prevents issues with employers and government authorities.
Obtaining a National Insurance Number and keeping personal records of the application establishes proper interaction with government agencies, helps avoid delays and fines, and increases trust from employers and partners. Consulting a lawyer or employment law specialist helps correctly prepare documents, ensure compliance with all requirements, and avoid potential issues with HMRC and the Jobcentre both in the United Kingdom and abroad.
