UK question: Claiming tax credits as a working holiday maker?

Question

Anyone familiar with this system, please help.

I have lived in the UK for 13; 5 as a child when my parents were working here as a nurse and accountant and then I have lived here for 8 years as an adult, student, work permit holder and working holiday holder.

I have a 2 year old daughter (not british) and Childcare costs are very high. I am a tax payer and I understand tax credits are available to help people who are working to cover their childcare costs. I am not technically a british resident so am I eligible for these credits.

Answer 1

Need to know your nationality in order to answer the question. If you are an EU citizen then you may be able to claim tax credits however, as you have said that you have been a work permit holder I suspect that you are not an EU citizen. Hence it depends on your current immigration status. Have a look at the visa in your passport. If it says 'no recourse to public funds' then you cannot claim any benefits for yourself.

If you have been here continuously on non-temporary visa's (e.g. work permit) for 5 years then you can apply for 'settled status' (also called Indefinite Leave to Remain). Once you have ILR then you can claim benefits.

However for advice specific to your case I suggest that you go and see your local Citizens Advice Bureau who will be able to explain what options are open to you.

Answer 2

What visa does your daughter have?  As a working holiday maker you are not an EU national and, of course, on holiday here; just working half of that two years.  Having this visa means you cannot claim because there is no recourse to public funds.

This link gives a list of public funds.

http://ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/ukresidenc...

and this give the Q & A on Working Holiday Makers from the Immigration website.

http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/howtoapply/...

If your list is in the wrong order and you are now a work permit holder then the same applies, you have no recourse - the link above will give you the information if you look for work permit Q & A

Its all there.