Been reading up on the subject and as I understand it as stepfather for two children who came over with my wife I should be able to claim child benefit for both of them. Interested in knowing what experience of other people has been on this one as I don't believe this has any impact on FLR visa applications as it is me claiming not either of step children or wife. Need to make sure I'm aware of any issues before submitting and seems to be lots of examples of stepparent who are British claiming so can't see any problems but I'm the cautious type and like to plan for the worst.
I was able to claim it for my two Filipino stepchildren (on settlement visas) , from day one... though that is a few years ago now. You are the one who should claim though. (Either parent can claim Child Benefit anyway... but in your case it does NEED to be you) . Check with the Child Benefit Agency, for current requirements. Schooling was also no problem. Take them for an interview at your local Education dept. office. NHS was no problem too.... though that may have changed now.
That was what I had heard but good to hear of other peoples definite experience and fact they had no problems. Sorted out schools and NHS although annoyingly could not do school application until after arrival.
link to similar subject regarding Public Funds being claimed http://www.british-filipino.com/index.php?threads/child-benefit-and-spouse-visa.17076/ There are exceptions that permit claiming.
