How to apply for a UK National Insurance number as a student

What is a National Insurance number?

A National Insurance (NI) number is a unique reference — two letters, six digits, and a final letter (for example, AB 12 34 56 C) — that HMRC and the Department for Work and Pensions use to record your tax payments and National Insurance contributions.

You need one to:

• start any paid work in the UK, including part-time campus jobs
• file a Self Assessment tax return if you're self-employed
• have your tax code set correctly so you don't overpay

Your NI number stays the same for life. If you return to the UK to work in future, the same number applies.

Who can apply?

Any international student with permission to work can apply. Most Student visa holders can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during official holidays — check your visa conditions before starting any job. See the work rights guide on Luodi for a breakdown by visa type.

You do not need a job offer to apply. Apply as soon as you have a UK address.

How to apply online

The application is fully online via gov.uk. The old phone-based system no longer exists.

1. Go to the application page. Visit https://www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number↗.

2. Sign in or create a GOV.UK One Login account. If this is your first time, register with your email and set up two-factor authentication.

3. Verify your identity. You'll need your passport or biometric document. Some applicants are asked to attend a face-to-face appointment if the system can't confirm identity digitally — this is routine, not a problem.

4. Fill in the form. You'll be asked for:

   • Full name (as it appears on your passport)
   • Date of birth
   • Nationality and country of birth
   • Your UK address
   • Reason for applying — select "To work"

5. Submit. You'll receive a confirmation email with an 8-digit reference number. Keep this safe.

The form takes around 20 minutes if your documents are ready.

What you'll need

• A valid passport — the document you used for your visa application.
• Your visa or eVisa details — your UKVI account share code or your BRP number if you still hold one.
• A UK postal address — this is where HMRC will send your NI number letter. University halls work fine; so does a private flat.
• Access to your email — for GOV.UK One Login verification.

You don't need a bank account or a previous employer's payslip.

How long does it take?

HMRC says allow up to five weeks. In practice, most students receive the letter in two to three weeks. If five weeks pass without it, call the National Insurance helpline on 0300 200 3500 (Monday to Friday, 8am–6pm) with your reference number to hand.

Starting work before your number arrives

You don't have to wait. Tell your employer you've applied and give them your 8-digit reference number. Employers can legally hire you before your NI number arrives.

Once the letter comes, pass the number to your payroll team straight away so your tax record is set up correctly. HMRC explains this at https://www.gov.uk/national-insurance/your-national-insurance-number↗.

Temporary numbers — ignore them

HMRC no longer issues temporary NI numbers. If a payslip shows a number starting with TN, your employer has used a placeholder format that will cause tax problems. Chase your real number as soon as it arrives and ask payroll to update their records.

Where to find your NI number later

Once you have it, your number appears on:

• Your HMRC letter
• Any payslip
• Your P60 or P45 (end-of-year tax forms)
• Your Personal Tax Account at https://www.gov.uk/personal-tax-account↗

If you lose it, sign in at https://www.gov.uk/find-national-insurance-number↗.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a National Insurance number to work as an international student?

Yes. Every employer needs your NI number to set up your tax record. You can start work before it arrives — just give your employer the reference number from your application email — but you must pass the real number to payroll once it comes.

Can I apply before I have a job?

Yes. You no longer need a job offer or employer letter. Apply as soon as you arrive in the UK and have a UK address — it's one less thing to scramble for once you find work.

How much does it cost to get a National Insurance number?

Nothing. The gov.uk application is free. Any website charging for this service is a scam.

Will my Student visa stop me getting one?

No. Having a Student visa with permission to work is enough. HMRC checks your immigration status as part of the application; you don't need to submit extra proof.

What if the system can't verify my identity online?

You'll be asked to attend a face-to-face appointment at a DWP service centre. Your confirmation email will include instructions. Bring your original passport and visa documents.