Getting a National Insurance number after moving to the UK
Do you need to apply for a UK National Insurance number, can you work before it arrives, how long it takes, and how eVisa holders can check theirs.
馃嚞馃嚙 United Kingdom
Published 路 Last checked 路 2 min read
The short answer
If you live in the UK, have the right to work and are working or looking for work, you can apply for a National Insurance number online, but only once you are in the UK. You can start work before it arrives if you can prove your right to work. It can take up to 4 weeks. Many visa holders already have one, shown on the back of their BRP or in their UKVI account.
A National Insurance number is your personal reference in the UK tax and benefits system. Your employer uses it to record the tax and National Insurance contributions you pay, which later count towards benefits and your State Pension.
Check first: you may already have one
Many people who come to the UK on a visa are given a National Insurance number automatically.
- eVisa holders: sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account and view your eVisa.
- Biometric residence permit (BRP) holders: check the back of your BRP.
If a number is shown, you do not need to apply.
Who needs to apply
You can apply if you live in the UK, have the right to work here, and are working, looking for work or have a job offer. You can only apply once you are in the UK.
Can I start work without it?
Yes. You can start work before your number arrives, provided you can prove your right to work to your employer. Tell your employer you have applied, and give them the number as soon as you receive it.
How to apply
- Make sure you are in the UK and have your proof of identity ready.
- Apply online through the GOV.UK "Apply for a National Insurance number" service.
- Keep the application reference number from the top of your confirmation email.
- Wait for your number. It can take up to 4 weeks.
If more than 4 weeks have passed, or you move house or your details change while you wait, call the application helpline and give them your reference number.
Key facts
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Who can apply | People living in the UK with the right to work |
| Apply from abroad | No, only once you are in the UK |
| Work before it arrives | Yes, if you can prove your right to work |
| Time to receive | Up to 4 weeks |
| Already have one? | Check your eVisa in your UKVI account or the back of your BRP |
| Changes of name or address | Same number for life; update your details |
Frequently asked questions
Can I start a job before I get my National Insurance number?
Yes. GOV.UK says you can start work before you receive your National Insurance number, as long as you can prove your right to work in the UK.
How long does it take to get a National Insurance number?
It can take up to 4 weeks. If it has been longer, you can call the application helpline with the reference number from the top of your confirmation email.
Can I apply from outside the UK?
No. If you need to apply, you can only do so when you are in the UK.
Do I need a new number if my name or address changes?
No. Your National Insurance number stays the same for life. You update your details instead of applying again.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Apply for a National Insurance number (checked November 6, 2026)
- GOV.UK: Prove your right to work to an employer (checked November 6, 2026)
Cite this page: Nika Kapanadze and Henrik Larsen, "Getting a National Insurance number after moving to the UK", Immigrantset, last checked November 6, 2026, https://immigrantset.com/settling-in/uk-national-insurance-number/