To apply for a National Insurance (NI) number in the UK, follow these steps:

1. Check Eligibility
   You can apply if you:

   • Live in the UK
   • Have the right to work in the UK
   • Are working, looking for work, or have a job offer
     If you already have an NI number, you do not need to apply again

2. Prepare Required Documents
   Have ready one or more of the following:

   • Passport from any country
   • National identity card from an EU country, Norway, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland
   • Biometric residence permit (BRP)
     If you don’t have these, you may still apply but might need to attend an in- person appointment to prove your identity

3. Apply Online
   The primary method is to apply online through the official government website. During the application, you will be asked to upload:

   • A photo of yourself holding your passport
   • Photos of other identity documents
     If you cannot upload photos, you can still apply online but may need to attend an appointment or post photocopies of your documents later

4. After Applying
   You will receive an email with your application reference number and instructions if further proof of identity is required. Once identity is verified, it can take up to 16 working days to receive your NI number

5. Alternative for Some Applicants
   For some, such as international students or those applying from outside the UK, you may need to call the National Insurance Number Application Helpline (0800 141 2079) to receive an application form and further instructions

6. Starting Work Before Receiving NI Number
   You can start work before getting your NI number if you can prove your right to work in the UK. Inform your employer that you have applied for your NI number and provide it once received

In summary, the main route is to apply online, prove your identity digitally or in person if needed, and wait for your number to be issued. Help is available via helplines if you encounter issues