This practical guidance provides information about Visa's, National Insurance and bank accounts. Helping you to get set up for working and living in the UK.
UK Visa Guidance
You can find information about the different types of Visa's on the UK government site
If you would like to find more information about UK Visa Guidance for Visitors, visit UK Visa Guidance: Visitor Visa for Parents and Family
eVisa
If you are joining University Hospitals Plymouth (UHP) under a Skilled Worker visa you will be issued with an eVisa. It is important that you are able to access this so that you can evidence your right to work in the UK. To to so you will need to follow the following steps:
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Link your current passport
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Access your eVisa straightaway to check all details. Incorrect information should be reported as soon as possible. Report an error with your eVisa
Watch 'how to' videos to help you access and use your eVisa
National Insurance (NI) Number
A National Insurance (NI) number is a unique identifier used in the UK to track your National Insurance contributions and tax payments. It's a personal account number that ensures your contributions are properly recorded against your name. This number is essential for working in the UK, claiming certain benefits, and building up your entitlement to state pension.
How to obtain a NI Number
If you have an eVisa, you might have a NI number already. You can find it by logging into your UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) account and viewing your eVisa which may also display your NI number. Go to your UKVI account
If you do not have a NI number, you must apply for one. You can only apply once you are in the UK, this takes 4 weeks to be processed and you can continue to work whilst you await your NI number providing you have a right to work.
You can apply for a NI number online and will need the following documentation to prove your identity:
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A passport from any country
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A national identity card from an EU country or from Norway, Liechtenstein or Switzerland
You can still apply if you do not have any of these documents, but you may need to attend an appointment in person to prove your identity.
Checklist for opening a bank account
1) Employment contract
You should have received a copy as part of the recruitment process, however you can request proof of employment from the Medical Workforce team via their email address, should your chosen bank request this: plh-tr.medicalhr@nhs.net
2) Passport
3) Proof of Address
This can be through any formal document which would include your full address details. A signed contract of tenancy is one good example.
4) Photographic Identification
For example a driving license.
5) NI number
If you already have this.
Be vigilant for scammers and fraudsters
As an International Medical Graduate who may be new to the UK online banking system, it is very easy to fall for a scam. Scams that take place can be complex and look authentic.
Do not under any circumstances share any sensitive personal information with anyone, unless they can provide evidence to confirm they are who they say they are, even if that person claims to be a legitimate person of an official body (e.g. a bank’s fraud prevention team, police, etc.).
If you are unexpectedly contacted by an unknown person and they are asking for your personal information, immediately hang up and call back the official contact number for the organisation - you should be able to find this online.
If you would like some advice on UK banks, please contact the Medical Workforce team on plh-tr.medicalhr@nhs.net
