Monika J
I got a job within a week of arriving here but I didn’t know I needed a National Insurance number! They wanted me to start straight away but thankfully I was allowed to work while waiting for my application to be processed!
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Key information
1. As an EU citizen, you can currently work in any job in the UK without a permit
You don’t need a work permit or visa regardless of the type of work you do, but every resident needs a ‘National Insurance Number’ to work legally. The type of job you work in will depend on your skills, qualifications and experience.
2. Before you start work, you will need to apply for a ‘National Insurance Number’
It’s like a social security number that allows the government to identify who you are, and record the taxes you pay, and entitlements you receive correctly
- You can start working while your application is being processed - if you prove you have the right to work by showing the employer your EU passport or National Identity card
- This can take a few weeks so apply early!
3. Everyone who works in the UK must pay taxes and social welfare contributions
Social welfare contributions are better known as ‘National Insurance contributions’. The amount of tax and other contributions we pay depends on how much we earn. Currently, people who earn below £12,500 do not need to pay taxes.
4. You usually need a bank account to receive your salary
Most employers will pay your salary directly into your bank account. It’s not illegal to be paid in cash, but you should check carefully that you are paying the correct taxes and National Insurance contributions. Some employers use this as a way to avoid paying taxes and contributions themselves!
- Read about opening a bank account in our dedicated section ‘Banking’
5. Check that you have a contract and are legally employed before starting work
Some people fall into the trap of working in unofficial jobs, putting them at risk of being exploited. Look out for the warning signs:
- Not being asked for your ‘National Insurance number’
- Being paid in cash
- Not being given a contract - ideally you should get this before you start work, but legally it must be provided within two months of the start date
Applying for a National Insurance Number
Every resident needs a ‘National Insurance Number’ to work in the UK
It’s like a social security number that allows the government to identify who you are and record the taxes you pay, and entitlements you receive correctly:
- You can start working while you wait for your number to arrive
- This can take a few weeks so apply early!
How to apply for a ‘National Insurance Number’
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Step 1: Get help to apply if you are not confident in English
- A local organisation - such as 'Connected Communities' or ‘Haringey Migrant Support Centre’. Read about other organisations in ‘Other local help & support’
- Your local JobCentre Plus - as part of an application for financial support from the government
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Step 2: Call the number to start your application
You must be in the UK to make this call. You will be asked for basic details like your name and date of birth to register your application.
- It’s free to call 0800 141 2075
- Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
- There is no translation service available
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Step 3: Attend an interview
You will receive a letter from the DWP inviting you to an interview at a local Jobcentre Plus to show your identity documents. This is usually a valid passport, national ID card or a full photocard EU driving licence.
- Read the information in the letter carefully for instructions
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Step 4: Wait for the delivery of your ‘National Insurance Number’
Within two weeks of your interview, you should receive a letter by post detailing your number. You can start working while your number arrives if you prove you have the right to work in the UK - simply show your employer your EU passport or National Identity card.
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Step 5: Reach out if you need help
If there’s a delay in receiving your ‘National Insurance Number’, call their helpline on 0800 141 2075 to enquire further.
- If you need help with any of the steps, get in touch with local organisations such as the ‘Connected Communities’ team
- Read more about other organisations in our dedicated section ‘Other local help & support’