HMRC activation key and self assessment

[170872]

I have two questions and would appreciate if some one can advice

I have a friend who has invested in a partnership in the UK but living abroad in colombo. I have just helped him to register for HMRC online and I was told that the activation pin will take around 10 days to reach him in colombo. He has to file his tax return 31 January 2013.

Is there anyway that he can get this activation pin online quicker instead of by post? In the worst case scenario- if he doesn't get on time can he purchase a commercial software and file his tax return online?

Secondly, how about NI when he complete his tax return? does he have to pay class 4 NIC on the taxable income?? My understanding is as a non-resident he is not required to pay UK NI. Just the tax. Am i correct??

Thank in advance for your advices

Happy New Year

[pawncob]

There's no way to speed it up. The key is required to log on and enter info.

If he's in Colombo, isn't he a sleeping partner?(and therefor exempt from Class 4).

[170872]

Thank you for your reply Pawncob.

One more last question please. Can he use a commercial software to file his tax return in the UK (taxable income in UK?) if the activation pin does not arrive on time?

He is a sleeping partner in a partnership where he has 50% share of profit.

[pawncob]

He can use any software, including the HMRC stuff, but without the key he can't access the site.