They are two completely different numbers. The Nigerian NIN (National Identification Number) is an 11-digit identity number issued by Nigeria's National Identity Management Commission. The UK National Insurance number (NI number) is issued by the UK government for tax, National Insurance contributions and benefits, and looks like QQ 12 34 56 C. You apply for them in different places.
Why people mix them up
Both are sometimes shortened to "NIN" or "NI number", and both are personal identity numbers. Searches like "NIN number UK" or "NIN registration UK" can therefore mean either one. If you are Nigerian and living in the UK, you may need both, for different purposes.
Side by side
| Nigerian NIN | UK National Insurance number | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Nigeria | United Kingdom |
| Issued by | National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) | UK government (HMRC and the Department for Work and Pensions) |
| Format | 11 digits | 2 letters, 6 digits, 1 letter (e.g. QQ 12 34 56 C) |
| Used for | Nigerian passports, banking, SIM registration, government services | Working, paying tax and National Insurance, claiming benefits in the UK |
| Who needs it | Nigerian citizens, at home or abroad | People who work or claim benefits in the UK |
| How to get it in the UK | Biometric enrolment at a NIN diaspora centre | Through GOV.UK |
If you need a UK National Insurance number
Apply through the official UK government website: Apply for a National Insurance number on GOV.UK. It is free. Dicksons World Services does not handle UK National Insurance numbers.
If you need a Nigerian NIN
You can register in the UK at a diaspora enrolment centre. Our centre is at 530–532 Kingsland Road, Dalston, London E8 4AH. Start with NIN registration in the UK, or read how to register for NIN in the UK step by step.
Do I need both?
Many Nigerians in the UK do. Your UK NI number lets you work and pay tax here. Your Nigerian NIN is needed for Nigerian passports, bank accounts and other services connected to Nigeria. One does not replace the other.
Which number does each organisation want?
| Organisation | Number they need |
|---|---|
| UK employer, HMRC, DWP | UK National Insurance number |
| Nigeria Immigration Service / passport | Nigerian NIN |
| Nigerian bank | BVN and Nigerian NIN |
| Nigerian mobile network | Nigerian NIN |
NIN vs NI number: FAQs
Is a NIN the same as a National Insurance number?
No. A Nigerian NIN is issued by NIMC in Nigeria; a UK National Insurance number is issued by the UK government.
Can I use my Nigerian NIN to work in the UK?
No. UK employers need your UK National Insurance number and proof of your right to work.
Do you help with UK National Insurance numbers?
No. Apply for a UK National Insurance number on GOV.UK. We only help with the Nigerian NIN.
Looking for the Nigerian NIN?
Book NIN enrolment at our Dalston, London centre.