Hi

I've been in the UK for almost 5yrs. I'm applying for ILR this SEP along with my wife and kid who is expected this July. My wife has been here only for the past 8months. MY question is...can I apply for maternity benefits for my wife as she is not working due to her Pregnancy and I am the sole bread winner. Also If I claim benefits like child benefits,before I apply for ILR will my application for ILR be rejected........PLs advice....MAny thanks...

You can apply for Child Benefit which will not affect your application at all. However you must check with the Child Benefit Office to see if you are eligible. If you receive it and turn out to be not eligible then you will have a problem.

Receiving other benefits depends on at what capacity you are in the UK. If you are holding a work permit then you are not allowed to receive any benefits and neither do your wife. It is very unlikely that you will be allowed to receive any benefits before an ILR application.

E Fidan
Administrator