I am a dual status alien for 2008. I was a NRA from June to Nov 2008. Resident alien from Dec 2008.
As per IRS laws, I have to file as married filing separately even though my wife and daughter stayed with me throughout 2008.
My US income was below the $55,000 limit for claiming child tax credit for married filing separately.
I have SSN, but my wife and daughter don't have SSN - I have to apply for their ITIN while filing my 2008 returns.
It looks like I might have been eligible for $1000 child tax credit if I was a resident alien. But since I am a dual status alien I am confused.

Please let me know if I can claim child tax credit.

Thanks

When did you enter the U.S. Which visa do you have?

I entered US with my family on 31st May. I have H1 visa. My wife and daughter have H4 visa

If you are here on H1-B from 31st May 2008, then you can file joint return as residents and claim your daughter as dependent. You will get recovery rebate and child tax credit. Read about H1-B tax filing: Your U.S. Tax Return: The U.S. Visas (http://taxipay.blogspot.com/2008/08/us-visas.html)