Incapacity benefit

[MdGaffer]

I am an international student (with physical disability) thus public fund is restricted for me to use. I have got a list from UKBA website of the public fund and got to know that incapacity benefit is not a public fund and based on National Insurance contributions. As I am disabled so can I apply for incapacity benefit ? If I get the benefit then is that shall make any trouble during my visa extension ? Please do me favor again.

Looking forward to your valued information.

Thank you.

[FindLaw_Maya]

Hi MdGaffer,

Thanks for posting. Incapacity Benefit is no longer available since the 31st January 2011, it has been replaced by Employment and Support Allowance. Here is the Government's guidance on eligibility for this benefit.

The UK Council for International Student Affairs says: "Income Related Employment & Support Allowance (ESA) and the Health in Pregnancy Grant are not included in the immigration rules, however Chapter 1 section 7 of the Immigration Directorate Instructions (IDIs) does include them both in the definition of public funds. Therefore you should also regard these benefits as public funds."

It seems unlikely that you would be eligible for the benefit, but you could try contacting your local job centre and asking them for further details.

Good luck,
-FindLaw Moderation Team

[MdGaffer]

Thanks a lot. Take care. Bye