Right of Abode

Hello All,

I am so glad I found this site. I have a few questions that I can't seem to get any answers for.

I have my Right of Abode, which I understand allows me to live and work in the UK. I also understand that my next step is to go 'in person' in London to receive my NI number.

Is it straightforward to get your NI number? I assume I can't be hired for a job without this...is that correct.

Also if anyone knows of a good website that would give me information on flat rentals in London that would be wonderful.

Any help anyone could be would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Correct. You won't get a "legal" job without a NI number and you will usually be asked for it in job applications. There are, however, plenty of "illegal" jobs going in London if you're desperate enough and know where to look.

I'm sure others here can advise on the exact procedure for getting the NI number.

Don't know of any specific flat rental sites, although they will be numerous for London, but bear in mind renting a flat in London is very expensive especially in the centre. You'll also often be asked for a month's rental in advance, plus a month's rental as deposit (returnable when you leave).

Good luck with it all!

Hi,

Thanks for your comments on flat rentals...any suggestions on how one would go about finding a place to stay, I would love to be able to board with someone until I am settled, is this something I would find through the local London papers?

Thank you also for the NI information.

It all seems so daunting to try and put things together from across the pond, but I take heart from reading all the forums on this site, and all the wonderful advice and encouragement !

Thanks again 'themeone'

You'll definitely save money by going for a "flatshare" rather than renting a whole place to yourself. But you really have to be on the spot to arrange this, as you'll have to see the place and, more important, the person, or people you'll be sharing with.

I believe the DWP (Dept of Work & Pensions) now deal with Ni numbers, to take a look through their website:

www.dwp.gov.uk

[quote="themeone"]Correct. You won't get a "legal" job without a NI number and you will usually be asked for it in job applications. There are, however, plenty of "illegal" jobs going in London if you're desperate enough and know where to look.

I'm sure others here can advise on the exact procedure for getting the NI number.
[/quote]

Just a quick note on this. Not only can you can work legally without an NI number, they advised me not to call UNTIL I was working. Your employer assigns you a temporary NI number based on your birthday and sex. Once you have a job, call your local job centre, and they will either make you an appoinment (or give you another number to call) to come in and have an interview for the NI number. Once you receive the number, you fill in a P86 "Arriving in the UK" form, which should connect all the dots. Rest assured, Inland Revenue wants you to work, and they will be sure to find a way of taxing you! http://www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/nonresidents/

Whoops - my mistake! I think I was confusing having the right to work, and having a NI number.

On housing - check the Loot Magazine which comes out weekly. You can buy it at any London newsagent. Yes, do flat share, but be careful. If you want to rent a place on your own - you need to be willing to provide 6 months rent up front as you will have no credit history in the UK. That is the major drawback in coming to the UK - no credit history, little helpn from banks etc.

NIN - you can get a job without a NIN. The HR dep't of your company will issue you a temporary one and Inland Revenue is happy to accept that until you sort out your interview. It took me almost a year to get my NIN - but was working away and paying taxes. That did not stop me from getting my NHS card and going to the doctor's when I needed to.

Banks - as noted above - banks are not willing to give you an account. Get that job! Once you have the job (any job will do...) you can get your manager to reference you to a bank - it is needed to have your pay deposited! Once that is done, you will likely have to wait 6 months before you get a checking account and maybe up to a year before you get a credit card. Keep your Canadian credit card at hand - do not cancel - until you are safely settled here. If you have family at home - they can settle your account monthly for you, if they are good to you!

Well - a few pointers which I hope will help.
J

I also got the right of abode. My mother was born in England. I recently received my British citizenship since they changed the rules. I'm hoping to work there eventually. Thanks for the NI information!