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Posted 3 months ago by felix.leungsf
I am a foreigner who resided in the UK 10 years ago and have my original NI number with the accompanying letter from HMRC. I plan to move back to the UK in 2025. Do I need to "reactivate" my existing NI number or take any other action regarding my NI number before or upon my return to the UK?
Posted 3 months ago by HMRC Admin 20 Response
Hi,
Your National Insurance Number is always active so there is no action to take about this.  
If you are employed in the United Kingdom then please provide your employer with your National Insurance Number.  
When you do return to the UK you should contact our National Insurance Helpline (0300 200 3500) and they will be able to update your National Insurance account with your new address. 
It may be possible to pay some voluntary National Insurance contributions for the time that you were overseas to maintain your account for the State Pension.  
Details about this are given in leaflet NI38 ‘Social Security Abroad’ which you may find via Social Security abroad: Social Security abroad: NI38
Thank you.

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