Key points
- You may already have an NI number on your <strong>BRP</strong> or <strong>eVisa</strong>—check before applying.
- Digital banks can be faster, but most banks still require a <strong>UK address</strong> (even temporary) for AML checks.
- Use the HMRC app / Personal Tax Account to <strong>view and download</strong> your NI confirmation once you’re set up.
The real dependency chain (and how to break it)
Most IMGs hit the same loop: bank wants proof of address; landlord wants UK bank; payroll wants UK account; everything wants NI. The fix is to accept that you need a temporary “anchor address” first (hospital accommodation, a short-let, or a verified tenancy). Once you have that, the rest unlocks quickly.
Check your BRP/eVisa first: you might already have an NI number
If you have a <strong>BRP</strong> or <strong>eVisa</strong>, you might already have an NI number. It can appear on the back of the BRP or within your UKVI eVisa account. If it’s there, you do not need to apply again.
Bank account reality: documents win over “credit history”
For newly arrived doctors, account opening is usually decided by identity + address verification (AML/KYC), not your income potential. Expect to show passport/BRP/eVisa and a UK address. A letter from your employer or tenancy agreement is often more powerful than trying to explain your overseas credit score.
Do not delay payroll setup
NHS payroll cycles are rigid. If your account isn’t ready, you can end up with delayed payment or manual workarounds. Prioritise an account that gives you a UK sort code and account number quickly, then migrate later if needed.
NI number: find it, then apply only if needed
If you don’t already have an NI number, you can only apply once you’re in the UK. Separately, if you have one but can’t remember it, GOV.UK allows you to find it online and download a letter via your Personal Tax Account or the HMRC app.
First 30 days: fastest order of operations
1
Day 0–3: Secure an anchor address
Use hospital accommodation, a verified short-let, or a tenancy. You need an address to pass most onboarding checks.
2
Day 1–7: Open a starter current account
Prioritise speed and payroll compatibility (UK sort code + account number). Collect bank letters/statements as soon as available.
3
Day 1–7: Check NI on BRP/eVisa
If present, record it securely. If absent, prepare to apply once you’re in the UK.
4
Day 7–21: HMRC access
Set up HMRC app/Personal Tax Account so you can view tax code and NI letter, and correct records early.
5
Day 14–30: Upgrade banking if desired
Once you have stable address + payroll history, you can switch banks without disrupting your first pay cycle.
SourceGOV.UK: Apply for a National Insurance number (includes BRP/eVisa NI check)
Open Link SourceGOV.UK: Find your National Insurance number (HMRC app / Personal Tax Account)
Open Link SourceMonzo: Account eligibility (official guidance)
Open Link Save your place and choose what comes next
Work through this guide (5 steps)
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Use hospital accommodation, a verified short-let, or a tenancy. You need an address to pass most onboarding checks.
Return to this sectionPrioritise speed and payroll compatibility (UK sort code + account number). Collect bank letters/statements as soon as available.
Return to this sectionIf present, record it securely. If absent, prepare to apply once you’re in the UK.
Return to this sectionSet up HMRC app/Personal Tax Account so you can view tax code and NI letter, and correct records early.
Return to this sectionOnce you have stable address + payroll history, you can switch banks without disrupting your first pay cycle.
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United Kingdom · Settling in · Article 3 of 9