Can I apply for NIN from abroad?
Matthew Underwood
Published Jan 20, 2026
If you come to the UK from abroad to work, you will need to apply for one. To apply for a NINO in England, Scotland or Wales, you should telephone the Jobcentre Plus NINO service. If you live in Northern Ireland, you can contact your nearest NINO processing centre. You can find out more on the NI direct website.
How do I find my UK NIN number?
You can find your National Insurance number on your payslip, P60, or letters about tax, pensions and benefits. You can also find it through your personal tax account and download a confirmation letter.
How do I get a S1 form UK?
You can request this by calling NHS Overseas Healthcare Services. The INSS will give you a document which you need to take to your local health centre. If the UK pays for your healthcare, for example through an S1 form, you cannot register for healthcare as a permanent resident.
How do I check my NIN status?
SMS Services
- dial *346#
- from the options displayed, select “NIN Retrieval”, by typing in ‘1’, if you are using the same phone number you enrolled with for your NIN.
- follow the steps displayed on your screen and provide the required inputs.
Do expats need NIN?
Likely challenges with NIN-SIM integration The NIMC Act exempts foreigners who visit the country temporarily (below 2 years) from the NIN registration. However it is now mandatory to use the NIN for transactions such as obtaining a SIM.
What can someone do with your national insurance number?
If they access your national insurance number, bank account details or passwords, they can steal your entire identity, take loans out in your name and turn your life upside down.
Do you need to replace your National Insurance card?
The card itself cannot be used as proof of identity by anybody else, so you don’t need a replacement if you know your number. Record the number and keep the information in a safe place. You’ll soon have it memorized, but it’s good to have in case you forget.
What to do if you lose your National Insurance card?
If you have lost your National Insurance number card you can make an application for a replacement by clicking here. However, the HMRC no longer issue a National Insurance number card, you will receive your National Insurance number on letter headed paper from the HMRC.
Can you apply for a National Insurance number in the UK?
You can only apply once you’re in the UK. You can apply for a National Insurance number as part of your application for benefits or a student loan. You will not need to call the National Insurance number application line. But you might need to attend an interview at Jobcentre Plus (or a processing centre if you’re in Northern Ireland).
How can I get my National Insurance number back?
Request it by post. Complete an online form on the HMRC site and they’ll post you your NI number again. There’s also a HMRC phone line that can send your number by post if you would rather do that – see the National Insurance Number Helpline for more.
