UK Names 11 Countries Whose Citizens May Claim Child Benefit After Moving to Britain

The UK government has clarified the rules governing Child Benefit claims for people who move to Britain from abroad, including nationals of 11 countries covered by specific agreements with the UK.

Under the general rules, applicants must normally make the UK their main home, have the legal right to reside in the country and meet the eligibility requirements for Child Benefit. The child must also usually live with the person making the claim.

Who Is Normally Excluded?

People who are considered “subject to immigration control” are generally not allowed to claim Child Benefit. This includes individuals who require permission to enter or remain in the UK but do not have it, as well as some people whose immigration status includes a condition preventing them from accessing public funds.

However, exceptions apply to certain groups.

Workers who are nationals of Albania, Morocco, Tunisia and Turkey may qualify under specific circumstances. In addition, nationals of countries that have formal agreements with the UK concerning Child Benefit may also be eligible, provided they satisfy the relevant conditions.

11 Countries Covered by UK Agreements

According to UK government guidance, nationals of the following countries may qualify for Child Benefit under the applicable agreements:

1. Barbados

2. Bosnia and Herzegovina

3. Canada

4. Channel Islands

5. Israel

6. Kosovo

7. Mauritius

8. Montenegro

9. New Zealand

10. North Macedonia

11. Serbia

Citizens of these countries who would otherwise be subject to immigration control may still qualify, provided they meet the required residency and other conditions.

EU Settlement Scheme

The rules also cover people who moved to the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme.

Those with settled status are generally eligible to claim Child Benefit. People with pre-settled status may need to satisfy additional conditions, depending on their circumstances.

The clarification comes as the UK continues to publish detailed guidance on the rights and eligibility requirements applying to foreign nationals living in Britain.

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