Returning to England from Japan?

Question

Hello there.

I have been working in Japan for the lastr six years and wish to return to the UK to study. i have a japanese wife and two shildren that were born in Japan and have both japanese and British citizenship.

My question is would I and my family be able to claim any kind of government support such as child benefit and family credit during the duration of my studies?

I haven't been able to find much information so far and would be grateful for any.

Thanks

Answer 1

Looks like this would be a good spot to start your research: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/BritonsLivingAbroad/ReturningToTheUk/DG_4000140 -- And it will take you to pages where you'll find the contact info for people better qualified to answer your question.
Good luck.

Answer 2

Your wife will need to apply to the British Consulate in JAPAN (not in UK!) well before you plan to leave for permission to reside ('Leave to Remain'). This is likely to be granted for 2 years initially and then, as long as you're still together, indefinitely thereafter. When she has this 'leave to remain' she can work normally (she will need to apply for a NI number) but will not have recourse to any public funds (government support) during those first 2 years.

Answer 3

As you and your children are British you can claim state benefits for them but if your wife is not British you will not be able to claim anything for her. The home office should be reasonably quick to give her permission to work so she could support herself but her earnings will be taken into account when assessing if you and the children are due any benefits.

Answer 4

Probably as the uk is an open country people come here all the tme even without uk citizenship and they get a free house fully furnished, benefits everything

Answer 5

Try the citizens advice bureau for advice

Answer 6

if you have a British Passport then yes