Do international students get a National Insurance Number?
Isabella Harris
Published Jan 19, 2026
There are a few conditions depending on where you are from regarding UK employment; but all students who are not from the UK will usually need to get a National Insurance Number when gaining paid employment in the UK. See below for further information on National Insurance Numbers.
How do international students apply for NIE number in UK?
Apply for a NI number You apply for a NINo by calling 0800 141 2075. You might be sent a letter, asking you to attend an appointment. If this happens, the letter will list the documents you will need to bring to the appointment.
Can international students work without NI number?
It is not a legal requirement for you to have a National Insurance number before you commence work, however if you do not have one then you will be charged tax at a high ’emergency’ level.
How do foreign workers get a National Insurance Number?
To get a national insurance number, you need to be interviewed. To arrange an interview, you can telephone the National Employment NINO application telephone number on 0845 600 0643. Or, you can ask for help from Jobcentre Plus on 0800 055 6688.
Do students get National Insurance number?
If you’re applying for benefits or a student loan You do not need a National Insurance number to apply for benefits or a student loan. You will receive one if your application for benefits or a student loan is successful.
How long it takes to get NIE number in UK?
You can only apply for a non resident N.I.E. through this Consulate. The N.I.E. is only a fiscal number to pay taxes for economic purposes. It takes at least 3 weeks to get your N.I.E. or certificate when applying through this Consulate General. For an appointment, please send an email to [email protected]
Do Tier 4 students get NI number?
It comes cases you will automatically be issued a National Insurance Number on your BRP card. If you intend on working you will need to apply for a National Insurance Number and pay UK tax.
Can I work while waiting for my NI number?
Yes, you can start work straightaway. There is no legal requirement for you to have an NI number to work. Life here will be easier with an NI number so we’d recommend it. Your employer can still pay your NI deductions (which is a legal requirement) but they do not need a number for you to do so.
How many days does it take to get NI number?
It can take up to 16 weeks for you to get your National Insurance number after you have proven your identity.
Can a international student work in the UK?
International Students: There are certain regulations governing an international student’s ability to work in the UK, which is detailed in the government’s Tier 4 Policy Guide. 2. National Insurance Number
Do you have to pay national insurance if you are a student?
If you have a job when you’re a student you may need to pay Income Tax and National Insurance. You have to pay: Income Tax if you earn more than £1,042 a month on average – this is your Personal Allowance. National Insurance if you earn more than £166 a week.
Do you need a National Insurance number to work in the UK?
If you wish to work in the UK as a student, you need to have this National Insurance Number for your employment to be legal. Note that National Insurance Number is unique for every individual and its generation is free of cost.
How long does it take to get National Insurance in the UK?
It can take as long as 16 weeks to get it – meanwhile you pay emergency tax. You do not need to have it to begin working as long you can prove the permissibility of you working in the UK. However, you do need to provide your employer with evidence that you have applied for your it and present it as soon as you need it.