Help with childcare costs
Contents
Eligibility for 2-year-old immigration and asylum seekers
Children whose families receive support under sections 95 or 98 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 are eligible for 2-year-old funding. Parents receiving Section 4 support or accommodation and support under Schedule 10 of the Immigration Act 2016 may also qualify.
No recourse to public funds
If your immigration status says you have ‘no recourse to public funds’, you may still get free childcare for your 2-year-old. You must live in England and your household income after tax must be no more than:
- £26,500 for families outside of London with one child
- £30,600 for families outside of London with two or more children
You cannot have more than £16,000 in savings or investments.
Contact the Family Information Service to find out if you qualify for any of the above reason's.
To prove eligibility for 2 year old funding, parents must provide one of the following
- P60
- Pay slip
- Letter from employer or bank
- Bank statement
- Evidence of other sources of household income
Parents may also be asked to provide evidence of their immigration status, such as an eVisa share code or other documentation where appropriate.
How to apply
Parents should complete an application form (MS Word 312KB) and return the form to fis.east@cheshireeast.gov.uk
We will then check to see if you are eligible based on the criteria above.
If you are eligible, an eligibility code will be emailed to you to present to your childcare provider.
Additional information
- A 2 year old child will not lose their place if their family circumstances change (i.e., they cease to receive support under sections 95 or 99 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999).
- All 3 and 4 year-olds are entitled to the 15-hour universal entitlement to free early education regardless of their immigration status
Page last reviewed: 24 August 2026
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