Can I claim child benefit?

[scoobydoolondon]

I'm a British born citizen and my wife has recently been granted the spouse visa for 2.5 years, stating "no recourse to public funds".

We are expecting our first child in 2015.

When our child is due, is it possible for me, as the father, to claim child benefit, solely in my name?

Or does it jeopardise my wife's right to remain in UK at the next visa extension?

thanks

[Casa]

Absolutely fine with no problem for your wife's visa extension. Child tax credits can also be claimed (if applicable to earnings) and as strange as it may seem, should be claimed in joint names. Child benefit claim in your name only.

[scoobydoolondon]

Really? That's great news..

Don't know why, but I always assumed child benefit was always paid to the mother.

Still have some way to go, but when it comes to applying under my name, is it a simple process to not include the wife?

[Casa]

Yes.