Ukrainian nationals: banking and getting a National Insurance (NI) Number
Opening a bank account, accessing local currency and getting a National Insurance Number when arriving in Northern Ireland from Ukraine.
Opening a bank account
There are a range of banks and you can choose one that suits you best. There are also online-only banks which you can use.
To open a bank account, you will usually need to show a form of identification.
Acceptable forms of identification are:
- your passport
- your Biometric Residence Permit
- your driver’s licence
- your identity card
You should ask about any charges when you open a bank account. Once you open your account, you will usually be issued with a debit card.
Many cards are contactless, and some shops will only accept contactless payment.
You can also arrange for bills to be paid directly from your account using direct debit. Ask your bank about this.
More information on how to open a bank account is available at:
Access to local currency
If you have a working bank card or cash card, you will be able to use them to withdraw money from the ATMs at your point of entry.
National Insurance (NI )Number
A National Insurance (NI) number is used to make sure your National Insurance contributions and tax are recorded against your name only. This is a code with letters and numbers and never changes.
You can look for and start work without a National Insurance Number if you can prove you can work in the UK by showing your Biometric Residence Permit. This will have your Right to Work status printed on the back.
Employers must do Right to Work checks on everyone they hire.
Having a National Insurance number is not part of these checks and does not prove that someone has the right to work.
If you do not have a National Insurance Number you can find information on how to get one at:
When you make an application you will need to give a copy of your passport and proof that you have the right to work. The employer will tell you what documents you need to provide.