National Insurance Number question

Hi,

I don't have a National Insurance Number - can I start working in the UK without one, or is it a prerequisite for employment?  

Also, how long does it take to get the number, once the application has been submitted in person at the IR office?

Thanks!
Max

Yes, you can start working in the UK, once you have your FLR spouse visa, and without a National Insurance #. The employer will provide you with a temp # it's usually your birthday something like this....if you were born on say Jan 1 yours would be TN 01 01 80 M.

Once you begin working you call the Social Security office in your town and set up an appointment for interview. I received mine in 3 months, but others have had to wait a shorter time.

There is another thread on this site of members experiences. You might want to have a read it's very informative!

Good Luck

Hi Max!

Trish is right on the money.  I think you'll find that experiences differ simply because SS offices differ.  Once I began working, I had to ring up the office to be put on a waiting list for an appointment.  I then had to wait 13 weeks for said appointment.  Once I had the appointment though, I had my NI number within 6 weeks.

Best of luck!

I had a similar experience to Elle's.

Started working, got a temporary number, took a heck of a long time to even get through to an office for an appointment, then long wait for the appointment, had a bugger of a tough interview (lasted about an hour!), and then got my card in the post in about a month with my new number.