How Often Can I Travel Abroad on Universal Credit?

fifa_world_class7
fifa_world_class7 Online Community Member Posts: 12 Listener
in Universal Credit (UC)

Hi everyone,

I know that Universal Credit allows claimants to travel abroad for up to 4 weeks while still receiving payments, as long as they continue to meet their commitments. However, I’m wondering how often I can do this without it affecting my claim.

From what I understand, there’s no official waiting period before traveling again after returning to the UK, but frequent absences might raise concerns with the DWP about habitual residence. I’d like to know:

  • Has anyone experienced issues with multiple trips abroad within a year?
  • How does the DWP assess whether someone is still “ordinarily resident” in the UK?
  • Would it be advisable to check with my work coach before planning multiple trips?

I’d appreciate any advice or experiences you can share! Thanks in advance.

Comments

  • Passerby
    Passerby Posts: 177 Empowering

    There's no limit to the number of trips, as long as each trip is for a month or less. 

    It's crucial to inform your work coach about your travel plans, as this ensures they are aware of your absence and can provide any necessary support or guidance. This can have its pros and cons, which I believe you can figure out.

    Hope this helps.

  • fifa_world_class7
    fifa_world_class7 Online Community Member Posts: 12 Listener

    Thank you for your response! I appreciate the clarification that there’s no limit as long as each trip is under a month.

    Just to be sure—if someone takes multiple trips in a year, even while informing their work coach, could the DWP still question their habitual residence in the UK? Have you seen cases where frequent travel led to benefit suspensions or reviews?

    I just want to make sure I avoid any issues. Thanks again for your help!

  • Legwax
    Legwax Online Community Member Posts: 102 Contributor

    What would you think about someone going on multiple trips abroad for weeks at a time? UC is paid to those who are expected to look for work. That's what you are up against.

  • fifa_world_class7
    fifa_world_class7 Online Community Member Posts: 12 Listener

    I see your point about job-seeking claimants, but I was specifically asking in the context of someone on LCWRA, who isn’t required to look for work. Would frequent travel still be a concern for the DWP in that case, or is it mainly about maintaining habitual residence?

  • Legwax
    Legwax Online Community Member Posts: 102 Contributor

    You might want to change your heading then to get some pertinent responses.

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