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Is the NI really a must in UK? I have heard of people working there that are working only for a few years in academia who don't have an NI - or at least so they claim.

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I lived there just fine without one. I wasn't working, but rented a house and opened a bank account, I don't remember ever being asked for one.

Yes, of course, if you have the "money-honey", you don't work or expect maternity or jobseekers allowance, and you are not interested in state pension, you can get by without one :)

I just checked, and for healthcare you don't actually need it in the UK. In other EU countries you usually have to pay health insurance for yourself if you are not working (sometimes a LOT of money), but not in the UK.

I got a letter threatening me with a fine if I didn't register to vote, and I needed a NI number to register.

yes but you're taxed at some 'emergency tax' rate which is really high.

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