(Because your first paycheck shouldn’t come with extra confusion!)
Just landed in the UK? Whether you’re a student, professional, or dependent, one thing you’ll need pretty quickly — besides adapting to British weather — is your National Insurance.
At ScottishIndian.com, we help Indian newcomers in the UK stay ahead on essential life skills — from visas to part-time jobs to setting up your first flat. Here’s your no-nonsense guide to applying for an NI number — because trust us, your future self (and your tax bill) will thank you.
🔹 What is a National Insurance (NI) Number?
Your NI number is a unique ID used by HMRC (the UK tax department) to track:
Your income
Your tax payments
Your eligibility for benefits and pensions later in life
Think of it as your UK version of India’s PAN card — but tied to work, tax, and social security.
🔹 Who Needs an NI Number?
✅ If you are an Indian student, Tier 2/Skilled Worker, dependent, or new resident and plan to:
Create a UK Government Gateway Account Simple — just your UK address, BRP details, and ID proof (passport/visa info).
Submit Supporting Documents They may ask for:
Passport and visa (BRP) copy
UK address proof (tenancy agreement, bank statement)
Job offer letter (optional but helps)
Wait for a Response Usually, you’ll receive your NI number by post within 2–8 weeks. Sometimes faster if you’re lucky!
🧠 Tip from ScottishIndian.com: Apply as soon as you have your UK address sorted — don’t wait until you land your first job offer.
⏳ Can I Work Without an NI Number?
Yes — temporarily. You can start work while your application is processing — just inform your employer and show proof of application.
But:
You’ll pay emergency tax until you provide your NI number
It’s smarter to sort it quickly to avoid extra paperwork later
🧠 Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using dodgy third-party agents (Always apply FREE via the gov.uk site) ❌ Giving wrong address (You won’t get your NI number if your post gets lost) ❌ Waiting until after your job offer — start early!
Getting your National Insurance number might not be the most exciting part of your UK journey — but it’s 100% essential for living, working, and thriving here.
At ScottishIndian.com, we’re all about helping Indian migrants, students, and families in Scotland and beyond adapt smarter, faster, and stress-free.
The Desi Traveller’s Guide to Exploring Europe From the UK | ScottishIndian.com
So, you’ve got that shiny Schengen Visa in your passport — congrats! 🙌 But here’s the exciting part: this one visa lets you travel across 27 European countries without border checks. Yes, it’s the ultimate backpacking, Euro-summer, Insta-worthy dream all rolled into one.
At ScottishIndian.com, we love helping Indian students, professionals, and families in the UK unlock the full potential of their visa status — and that includes travel beyond the UK. So if you’re wondering how to plan a multi-country trip on a Schengen Visa, this one’s for you.
🛫 Step 1: Understand How the Schengen Visa Works
Your Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) allows you to stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period within the Schengen Zone.
✅ Once you’re inside the zone, you can cross borders freely between countries like France, Germany, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, and more — no passport checks required.
⚠️ But remember: You must enter the zone through the country that issued your visa or the one where you’ll spend the most time.
📍 Step 2: Choose Your Route Smartly
Let’s say you’re planning a 10-day trip. Here’s a popular sample route from the UK:
Paris, France (3 days)
Amsterdam, Netherlands (2 days)
Berlin, Germany (2 days)
Prague, Czech Republic (3 days)
💡 Tip from ScottishIndian: Use train passes like Eurail or budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet to hop between cities cheaply.
🧾 Step 3: Get Your Paperwork in Order for Schengen Visa
When applying for your visa, you’ll need to:
Book all accommodations (at least refundable ones)
With multiple countries, climates can change fast. Pack:
Layers for warmth
Power adapters (Schengen uses Type C & E plugs)
Indian snacks (because there’s only so much bread and cheese you can take)
Also: keep digital and printed copies of your visa, BRP, and passport handy.
📅 Step 5: Respect the 90-Day Rule for Schengen Visa
If you’re studying or working in the UK and heading to Europe on holiday, don’t lose track of your Schengen days. Use the Schengen Visa Calculator to stay compliant.
Overstaying = 🚨 possible ban or future rejections.
(If You’ve Already Used It Once and Want to Go Again)
✅ YES — If:
Your Schengen visa is a “multiple-entry” visa (check for “MULT” under “Number of Entries”),
AND it is still valid (i.e., the expiry date hasn’t passed),
AND you haven’t exceeded the allowed number of days (usually 90 days within 180 days).
➡️ Then yes, you can visit any other Schengen country without reapplying.
❌ NO — If:
Your visa was “single entry” (marked as “1” under entries) — meaning once you left the Schengen zone (after visiting Italy), the visa is no longer valid.
Your visa has expired — even if it’s multiple entry.
You’ve already used your full number of stay days (e.g., 90 days in 180).
📅 Example:
You got a Schengen visa from France: valid from March 10 to May 10, multiple entry, 30 days total stay.
You travelled to France from March 15–20.
You now want to go to Germany in April.
✅ If it’s a multiple-entry visa and you stayed in Italy for 5 out of 30 allowed days, then yes, you can go to Spain for up to 25 more days — as long as it’s within the validity period (by May 10).
❌ If it was single entry, then you’d need to apply again, even if you didn’t use the full stay days.
💬 Final Word from ScottishIndian.com
A multi-country trip across Europe isn’t just a travel goal — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, especially when you’re already living in the UK. With a bit of planning, your Schengen Visa can turn into the passport to memories you’ll never forget.
At ScottishIndian.com, we’re here to guide Indian migrants in the UK through every step — from visa help to travel hacks and cultural know-how.
(Your easy, desi-friendly guide to getting that dream Eurotrip started!)
“Planning a Euro adventure from the UK? Whether you’re picturing the Eiffel Tower, gondolas in Venice, or tapas in Spain — the first step is securing your Schengen Visa. For Indian passport holders living in the UK, the process of applying for a Schengen Visa, including choosing the right agency, booking an appointment, and writing a compelling cover letter, can seem complex.”
At ScottishIndian.com, we help Indian students, professionals, and families in the UK travel smarter, save time, and avoid rookie mistakes. So here’s your 2025 no-stress guide to Schengen visa agencies, booking links, and that all-important cover letter.
✅ 1. Which Schengen Visa Agency to Use (Based on the Country)
The Schengen Zone includes 27 countries, but not all use the same visa partner. You must apply through the country where you’ll spend the most time or enter first — and through their official partner.
🔹 VFS Global – Most Popular
🌐 https://www.vfsglobal.com Countries covered: France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Greece 📍 Locations: London, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Manchester
🧠 Tip from ScottishIndian:Never book through third-party travel agents unless they are officially linked to these platforms. Always use embassy-approved agencies.
✍️ 2. Your Schengen Visa Cover Letter
Your cover letter is your chance to explain your travel plans clearly and assure the embassy that you will return to the UK (your country of residence).
🔑 What to Include:
Your name, passport number, UK visa status (BRP, type of visa)
Where you’re travelling (list countries + cities)
Dates of entry and exit from the Schengen area
Purpose of visit (tourism, visiting friends, attending an event)
Accommodation & travel arrangements
Mention that you’re fully funded and will return to the UK
Attach a travel itinerary if you’re doing multi-country
✅ Keep it polite, concise, and professional.
Need a sample? Check out our free Schengen Visa Cover Letter Template!
📅 3. Booking Your Appointment – Official Links
Booking early is crucial, especially during holidays and university breaks.
✨ Final Word from ScottishIndian.com about Schengen Visa Agency
Getting a Schengen Visa as an Indian living in the UK isn’t hard — once you know the system. Use the right agency, write a strong cover letter, and book smart. At ScottishIndian.com, we’re here to make your travel dreams happen — desi style, with no stress.
📩 Got more specific questions? Ask in our Community Forum — we’ve got your back. 🌍✈️💛
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes the importance of “Desha,” or geographical location, in influencing health. Desha considers how environmental factors impact our well-being. This article analyses the Ayurvedic concept of Desha, particularly Anupa Desha, and draws comparisons with UK geography, providing practical dietary and lifestyle advice to mitigate Vata imbalance, a common concern in the UK.
Understanding Anupa Ayurveda Desha
Ayurveda describes three main types of Desha:
Jangala Desha: Dry land, characterized by fewer trees and water.
Anupa Desha: Marshy land, with abundant trees, mountains, and water bodies like rivers and the sea.
Sadharana Desha: Normal land, possessing a balance of features.
People inhabiting Anupa Desha are described as having tender bodies and are more prone to Kapha and Vata disorders.
UK Geography and Anupa Desha
🌍 While the UK is not directly referred to as Anupa Desha in Ayurveda, its climate shows close similarities. ❄️💨
🌧️ The UK experiences long winters, extreme cold, persistent winds, heavy rainfall, and damp conditions, making it prone to Kapha and Vata vitiation.
🌊 Coastal proximity, abundant rivers, and historically marshy lands further strengthen this correlation, as moist environments tend to aggravate Kapha, while cold and windy conditions disturb Vata.
Personal Experience: Vata Imbalance high in UK
🌬️ Cold & Windy Climate – The UK’s cold, dry air increases Vata, leading to imbalance. ❄️💨 🍽️ Dietary Habits – Too many raw, dry, processed foods can worsen Vata, lacking warmth and nourishment. 🥗⚡ ⏳ Lifestyle Stressors – Work pressure, financial concerns, irregular routines, and excessive screen time overstimulate Vata. 📱😵💫
Many individuals in the UK, including myself, experience symptoms related to Vata aggravation.
Vata-Related Health Concerns
🦴 Musculoskeletal Issues – Joint pain, stiffness, arthritis, and osteoporosis may develop. 🏃♂️💢 🧠 Nervous System Disorders – Anxiety, insomnia, headaches, nerve pain, and tremors can arise. 🛌🌡️ 💨 Digestive Problems – Bloating, constipation, and dry colon issues are common signs of imbalance. 🍽️❌ 🩸 Circulatory Issues – Poor circulation, cold hands and feet, and fatigue may manifest. ❄️🩸 🌀 Mental & Emotional Effects – Forgetfulness, feeling scattered, fear, and insecurity can be linked to Vata aggravation. 🤯💭
🔹 Dry skin and premature aging 🧴⌛ 🔹 Tinnitus (ringing in ears) 🔊🎵 🔹 Weight loss when severely aggravated ⚖️💨 🔹 Dry cough and respiratory issues 🌬️🤧
These issues are often exacerbated by the UK’s limited sunlight, especially during the colder months, leading to widespread Vitamin D deficiency disorders.
Ayurveda Desha Approaches to Vata Balance
Ayurveda doesn’t directly mention Vitamin D, but it explains the conditions associated with its deficiency through Vataimbalance and low Ojas (vitality). Here’s a combined approach:
1. Supplements (UK Market):
The NHS and Ayurveda recommend Vitamin D supplementation, especially from October to April.
Popular options in the UK include Vitabiotics Ultra D3 (1000 IU), BetterYou Vitamin D3 Spray, Holland & Barrett Vitamin D3, and Solgar Vitamin D3 1000-2000 IU.
While the NHS recommends 10 mcg/day (400 IU), many safely take up to 1000 IU/day unless otherwise advised.
2. Vitamin D-Rich Foods:
While sunlight is limited, certain foods can help:
Fortified cereals: Enjoy warm with milk and seeds.
Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel): Excellent for joint health.
Mushrooms (UV-exposed): Cook with turmeric and ginger.
3. Protein-Rich Foods (Balancing Vata):
Include protein sources like pulses (moong dal, toor dal, masoor dal, chickpeas), tofu/tempeh, paneer, Greek yogurt (plain, room temperature), fish, eggs, nuts (almonds), and seeds (pumpkin, flax, sunflower). These are readily available in UK stores like Goldenacre Minimart, Scottish Grocers. Tesco, Asda.
4. Lifestyle Tips for Vata Balance:
Sunlight: Get outdoor sunlight between 10 am and 2 pm when available. ☀️
Oil Massage (Abhyanga): Perform daily oil massage before bathing to nourish joints and skin. 💆♀️
Warmth: Wear layered clothes and use heating pads for joints. 🔥
Hydration: Stay hydrated with warm water and herbs like ginger or fennel. 🫖
Oil Application: Apply oil (sesame or coconut) before bathing, especially for numbness and stiffness. Karpooradi Thailam can also be used.
Epsom Salt Baths: At Night Apply oil in Hands and Legsif you are prone to numbness, Soak in warm water with Epsom salt before bed. 🛀
Exercise and Yoga: It is very essential to practise exercise and yoga for mobility, as joints and bones tend to get stiff in this climate. Aim for at least daily walking, gym workouts, or activities like Zumba to stay physically active and maintain joint flexibility.
Dietary Recommendations for Vata and Kapha Balance in the UK
To balance Vata and Kapha, focus on incorporating these foods, commonly found in UK markets:
Spices: Ginger, garlic, and turmeric are beneficial for both Vata and Kapha.
General UK Foods that help in Vata and Kapha Balance:
Grains: Cooked oats, rice (basmati)
Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas
Dairy: Warm milk, ghee
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds
Oils: Olive oil, sesame oil
Herbs and Spices: Cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper
Ayurveda’s concept of Desha provides valuable insights into how geographical factors influence health. While the UK differs from the classical Anupa Desha, it shares some characteristics that can predispose individuals to Vata and Kaphaimbalances. By understanding these influences and adopting appropriate dietary and lifestyle practices, including Vitamin D supplementation, a protein-rich diet, and the use of warming, grounding foods and practices, UK residents can promote better health and well-being.
Be slow in choosing, sure in living – Choose Ayurveda.
(A desi-friendly guide for UK-based Indians dreaming of remote work across Europe)
Working from a Paris café? Logging into Zoom from a Croatian beach? If you’re part of the digital nomad lifestyle, you’re probably wondering: “Do I still need a Schengen Visa to hop around Europe?”
At ScottishIndian.com, we help Indian students, professionals, and freelancers living in the UK make the most of their opportunities — whether that’s finding part-time jobs or unlocking European work-and-travel adventures.
Let’s break it down, especially if you’re an Indian passport holder in the UK looking to explore the EU while working remotely.
🌍 What Is a Digital Nomad?
A digital nomad is someone who works online while traveling from place to place. With flexible jobs in tech, marketing, content, design, or customer support — many Gen Z and millennial workers now live the “work from anywhere” dream.
But, your laptop lifestyle still needs to follow visa rules.
❓So, Do You Still Need a Schengen Visa?
Yes, if you’re an Indian passport holder, even if you’re:
Living in the UK
Holding a Student or Skilled Worker visa
Working remotely and not seeking local employment
The Schengen Zone (which includes countries like France, Spain, Portugal, and Italy) doesn’t automatically allow free entry just because you live in the UK.
You’ll need a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) unless:
You’ve got a passport from a visa-free country (which India isn’t), or
You’ve been issued a valid long-term residence permit in the EU itself
🧾 Can You Work While on a Schengen Visa?
Technically, yes — but only remotely. The Schengen Visa allows tourism and business, not local employment. So you can:
Log in to your job based in the UK or India
Freelance for non-EU clients
Attend meetings, conferences, or networking events
But you cannot:
Work for a local company in the EU
Sign local contracts
Extend your visa for remote work without applying for a long-stay visa or digital nomad visa
🛂 What About Digital Nomad Visas?
Several EU countries now offer specific Digital Nomad Visas, including:
🇭🇷 Croatia – 1-year visa for remote workers
🇪🇸 Spain – up to 12 months with income proof
🇵🇹 Portugal – popular among remote workers for its low cost and vibe
These visas require:
Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts
Minimum monthly income (varies per country)
Valid travel insurance
Criminal background checks
📌 Note: You usually apply from your home country or current country of legal residence (i.e. UK for many of you reading this on ScottishIndian.com).
💼 Final Thoughts from ScottishIndian.com
The digital nomad lifestyle is 100% possible for Indian professionals based in the UK — but you’ll need the right visa setup. A standard Schengen Visa is great for short workations (up to 90 days), but for anything longer or recurring, a dedicated nomad visa is smarter.
At ScottishIndian.com, we’re here to guide UK-based Indians on everything from visas and finance to cultural hacks and career moves.
📩 Want help choosing between a Schengen Visa or Digital Nomad Visa? DM us or check out our Get Moving blog section for tailored guides and tips! Your remote European adventure starts now. 💻✈️🌍
