National Insurance number

A National Insurance (NI) number is a personal number used to record a person's NI contributions and credited contributions. A NI number will only be given to one person and must only be used by that person. There are circumstances when, by law, you must apply for a NI number.

Applying for a National Insurance number

There is a process of checks the Jobcentre goes through when you apply for an NI number. Firstly, they make sure you need an NI number. Secondly, they make sure you haven't already got an NI number.

If you need an NI number and you have not already got one, they will write and ask you to come to an interview. At the interview, you will be asked questions about who you are and why you want an NI number.

This information, and any official documents you bring with you, will help to prove your identity and, where applicable, your right to work. You may also have to fill in a form to apply for an NI number; you should take a completed application form with you to your interview.

When they give you the date of your interview, they will tell you what information or evidence to bring with you. The information or evidence you need to bring depends on why you need the NI number. The list below might give you an idea of the relevant documents.

The interview will usually be with one other person unless, for example, you need an interpreter. Sometimes they may ask for your permission to keep your documents for a short time. The Jobcentre will give you a receipt for any documents they keep.

Evidence and information

Here are some examples of the types of evidence and information they need. They cannot accept photocopies.

General documents:

• Passport
• Home Office documents
• 2 or more passports if you are of dual- or multi-nationality
• Student-loan documents
• Student identity card
• Letter from your college with course details
• Mortgage or rental agreement.
   

Employment documents:

• Payslips
• A work permit
• A letter from your employer
• Your contract of employment
• Details of employment agencies you are registered with.
• Evidence that you are looking for work.

If you have arrived in Britain after living outside Europe, you must bring any travel documents you have. These are documents that give information about your travel between countries.

They include things like your passport, National Identity card or NASS 35 form (issued to people seeking asylum in the UK). If you have any other documents that you think may help prove your identity or your right to work, bring them with you.

If your application is successful, you will get a NI number in writing after the interview. You will later be sent your NI numbercard.

You can apply through the Jobcentre Plus office:

Jobcentre Plus
Brandon House
Holly Walk
Leamington Spa
CV32 4JE
01926 302 600

Jobcentre Plus
Kingsforth House
Albert Street
Rugby
CV21 2TD
01788 534 000