How to obtain your National Insurance number (NI)

  • April 10, 2020
 

Attaining your national insurance (NI) number once in the UK is essential once in the UK.

Overseas doctors new to the UK will not have an NI number, and wll need to appy to ensure they are taxed and paid correctly. In this article we’ll help you to arrange your NI by addressing the following questions: 

What is National Insurance? 

National Insurance (NI) is a tax system in the United Kingdom paid by workers and employers for funding state benefits. It is a contributory form of insurance against illness and unemployment, and provides retirement pensions amongst other benefits.

Citizens of the United Kingdom pay National Insurance contributions to become eligible for State Pension and other benefits.

Why do I need a National Insurance number?

A National Insurance number is a unique number assigned to an individual looking to work in the UK. You will keep the same number all of your life.

Your NI number helps to make sure that the National Insurance contributions and tax you pay are properly recorded against your name. 

It also acts as a reference number when communicating with the Department for Work and Pensions and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

When can I apply?

You can only apply once you are living in the UK.

Once in the UK you can work for up to 12 weeks without an NI number. However, we strongly recommend applying within your first few days of moving to the UK.

How do I apply?

Call the National Insurance number application line on 0800 141 2075 between the hours:

8.30am - 5pm

Monday - Friday

The phone call will be a 5-10 minute process. 

You’ll be asked some questions about why you need a National Insurance number, your background and circumstances. Following this call, you will be asked to attend an evidence of identity interview at your local job center which is followed by an email confirming the appointment.

They will ask you bring as many identity original documents as you can to the interview. Examples of documents which are acceptable are:

  • valid passport 
  • National Identity card 
  • residence permit or residence card including biometric immigration residency documents
  • full birth or adoption certificate
  • full marriage or civil partnership certificate
  • driving licence

In addition, you should provide:

  • evidence you are in work or looking for work
  • proof of address 

*If relocating from outside the EU, you will also be asked for your residence permit.

I’ve got my National Insurance number, what next?

If you were asked to provide additional information you will need to do this by the agreed date. 

If not, Jobcentre Plus will write to you and let you know whether your application was successful and what your National Insurance number is.

Provide your HR or Payroll department with your National Insurance number as soon as you have it.

Remember to keep the letter safe – you may need it in the future.


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Relevant Jobs

99,532 - 131,964

An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant in Haematology working in an established medical setting in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome.

The NHS Trust

The NHS Trust is one of the largest integrated care providers in England, serving a diverse population with a commitment to high-quality care and continuous improvement. The Trust operates across multiple sites, offering a broad range of services through various care groups, including Surgery, Integrated Medical Specialties, Family Health, Community, and Clinical Specialist Services. It provides a dynamic environment that supports innovation, education, and collaboration.

The Haematology Department & Team

The Haematology Department is a forward-thinking unit, staffed by a dedicated team of Consultant Haematologists and Clinical Nurse Specialists. The department focuses on outpatient and day case treatments, with a collaborative approach to inpatient care. It utilizes advanced facilities for a wide range of haematological services and participates in regional MDTs. This new consultant post will primarily be based at one of the main hospital sites but may involve activities across other locations within the Trust.

Continued Professional Development

This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within haematology, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The Trust supports continuous professional development and encourages participation in research and teaching activities. There is a strong emphasis on education with regular clinical meetings, audit sessions, and opportunities for career advancement.

Location

The location is ideal for international doctors and their families, offering affordable living costs, good schools, and a rich cultural heritage. There are numerous recreational activities, from exploring beautiful countryside and national parks to enjoying vibrant community events and historical sites. The area has excellent transport links, including easy access to major cities and convenient connections to international airports.

Am I eligible for this role?

UK based candidates:

  • Active GMC registration with license to practice
  • Experience in Haematology

EEA candidates: 

  • European Specialist Qualification in Haematology

Non-EEA candidates:

  • MRCP or FRCPath Haematology or PLAB
109,725 - 145,47

Consultant Psychiatrist – Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)
South Wales

A dynamic and transformational CAMHS service in South Wales is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with a strong interest in child and adolescent mental health. The successful candidate will join a well-established multidisciplinary team delivering specialist care across the region, contributing to service development and clinical leadership within a collaborative and forward-thinking environment. Doctors with MRCPsych, CESR interest, or a European Specialist qualification are encouraged to apply.

This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a progressive mental health service with access to regional tier 4 services and a population of approximately 380,000. The post supports the organisation’s strategic vision to integrate CAMHS more closely into community settings while developing clinical pathways in areas including eating disorders, complex care, youth justice, and neurodevelopmental disorders.

We welcome applications for full-time, part-time, or flexible working arrangements and will support CESR (Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration) development on an individual basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • Salary: £109,725 – £145,478 dependent on Consultant experience.

  • Full GMC registration with a licence to practise is essential.

  • Eligibility for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register or within six months of CCT.

  • Section 12 approval (or eligibility within 6–12 months).

  • Experience delivering psychiatric care in CAMHS or related services is required.

  • A collaborative, developmental, and family-focused approach, with excellent communication and leadership skills, is highly valued.

  • Opportunities for career development through CPD, peer supervision, quality improvement, and service leadership.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide consultant-level psychiatric care to children and adolescents as part of a multidisciplinary CAMHS team.

  • Lead clinical care planning, review, and treatment delivery in partnership with colleagues across mental health, health, education, and social care.

  • Work closely with specialist regional services including adolescent inpatient units, eating disorder outreach services, and forensic CAMHS consultation teams.

  • Participate in the CAMHS consultant on-call rota (with prospective cover).

  • Contribute to service improvement, pathway development, and integrated working in line with strategic planning goals.

  • Provide supervision and clinical leadership to junior medical staff and allied professionals.

  • Participate in annual appraisal, job planning, and revalidation, with access to local peer groups and CPD.

  • Uphold principles of clinical governance, information governance, and risk management across the CAMHS Directorate.

LIFE IN SOUTH WALES
South Wales offers a rare combination of coastal beauty, green open spaces, and urban convenience. With beautiful landscapes, affordable living, and excellent local amenities, it is an ideal location for professionals and families alike. The region is well-connected by public transport and road networks and offers easy access to nearby cities and airports.

Healthcare professionals in the area benefit from a supportive and inclusive working environment and access to a wide network of services across health, education, and social care.

If you are passionate about delivering outstanding CAMHS care and want to help shape future services in a supportive, innovative setting, we welcome your application. Please note that we may close this post early if sufficient applications are received.


HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.

  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.

  • At least two video interview preparation sessions.

  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:

  • Document gathering and checking.

  • COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.

  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.

  • Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.

109,725 - 145,478

Consultant Psychiatrist – Acute Inpatient Service
South of England | Close to London

  • Salary: £109,725 – £145,478 dependent on Consultant experience.
  • Recruitment premia £15,000 over 3 years *subject to policy requirements
  • Relocation allowance: up to £8000 *subject to policy requirements

An inclusive and progressive NHS mental health trust in the South of England is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with a strong interest in acute inpatient care. The successful candidate will join a compassionate and collaborative multidisciplinary team, providing high-quality psychiatric care to adults and clinical leadership across inpatient services. Doctors with MRCPsych, CESR interest, or a European Specialist qualification are encouraged to apply.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a leading NHS Foundation Trust known for integrated working, a strong culture of kindness and respect, and its commitment to clinical excellence and innovation.

Applications are welcome for full-time, part-time, or flexible working patterns. CESR (Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration) support is available and tailored to individual needs.


JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • Full GMC registration with a licence to practise is essential.

  • Eligibility for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register or within six months of CCT.

  • Section 12 approval (or eligibility within 6–12 months).

  • Clinical experience in managing acute adult mental illness in inpatient settings is required.

  • Strong teamworking, communication, and leadership skills are essential.

  • Ongoing opportunities for professional development through training, leadership pathways, teaching, and academic engagement.


CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide Consultant-level psychiatric care to adult inpatients, in line with the Trust’s Acute Operational Policy.

  • Deliver clinical leadership and active involvement in quality improvement initiatives.

  • Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to a recovery-focused, trauma-informed approach to care.

  • Coordinate with specialist and community teams to ensure effective patient transitions and continuity of care.

  • Supervise and support junior doctors, specialty trainees, and students.

  • Participate in Consultant on-call rota (details available on request).

  • Engage in audit, teaching, research, and service development activities.


LIFE IN THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND

Located in the South of England, this opportunity offers the perfect balance of professional fulfilment and quality of life. The area combines vibrant urban centres, picturesque countryside, and excellent transport links — with London just 30 minutes away by train, and both Heathrow and Gatwick airports nearby for easy international travel.

This region is known for its historic market towns, outstanding schools, and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. Whether you\'re relocating alone or with family, it offers something for everyone — from city convenience to coastal calm.

The Trust is committed to inclusivity, wellbeing, and the development of its workforce, offering access to flexible working and a wide range of staff benefits.


HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.

  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.

  • At least two video interview preparation sessions.

  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:

  • Document gathering and checking.

  • COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.

  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.

  • Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.

99,532 - £107

An NHS district general hospital in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Grade Haematologist with an interest in haemato-oncology, laboratory haematology and blood transfusion. The Haematology department comprises a team of 3 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath (or equivalent) are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

FRCPath (or equivalent) and broad experience in clinical and laboratory haematology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in clinical trials, haemato-oncology, education, or blood transfusion should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 to £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide clinical support in both inpatient and outpatient settings, working closely with consultants and the multidisciplinary team.

  • Participate in the delivery of chemotherapy and specialist care via the dedicated oncology/haematology unit.

  • Contribute to clinical governance, teaching of junior doctors and nurse practitioners, and development of service pathways.

  • Assist with laboratory haematology duties including blood film reporting, and advise on transfusion and diagnostic services.

LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS

This hospital is located in a picturesque region of the West Midlands, with access to both rural retreats and small city living. Residents enjoy a mix of traditional market towns and vibrant city centres, with good schools, easy rail access to Birmingham, and plenty of green spaces for outdoor activities. The area has deep historical roots, from medieval cathedrals to Roman forts, offering a unique combination of heritage and modern living.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care

105,504- 139,882

An NHS hospital in South East England is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of four Clinical Oncologists and a Consultant Radiographer, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration, GMC Specialist Register, CCT, or CESR are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

GMC registration with a license to practice, CESR, or a GMC-recognised qualification such as FRCR is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 – £139,882 dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide expert oncology care for patients diagnosed with Upper and Lower GI cancers, overseeing treatment plans and managing patient care.

  • Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings across sites to coordinate treatment.

  • Contribute to research and clinical trials within the Oncology department, promoting innovation in GI cancer treatment.

  • Engage in teaching opportunities with medical students and junior doctors, especially in preparation for the launch of a new postgraduate medical programme.

LIFE IN SOUTH EAST ENGLAND

This hospital is located in the South East of England, a region known for its mix of lively coastal cities and peaceful countryside towns. It offers great transport links to London, top-performing schools, and diverse leisure options, including historic landmarks, nature trails, and vibrant cultural scenes. The area is rich in maritime and military history, making it a unique and engaging place to live and work.


HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists

  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice

  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions

  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more

  • Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:

    • Document gathering and checking

    • COS and Visa Application support if applicable

    • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation

    • Travel arrangements

    • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care

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