An invitation letter for a US visa is a formal document written by an individual, typically a US citizen or legal resident, inviting a foreign national to visit the United States.

An invitation letter can be used as part of the supporting documentation bindle that visa applicants have to submit when applying for a US visa.

The invitation letter is particularly important for those applying for a B2 Visitor visa, as it can demonstrate to US immigration officers that the applicant has a legitimate reason to visit and intends to return to their home country after the trip.

It can, however, also be used for other types of visas, such as business or family-based visas, where the invitation letter clarifies the nature of the visit and the applicant’s ties to the US.

While the letter itself doesn’t guarantee visa approval, it can help to prove the purpose of the trip and the relationship between the applicant and the inviter to immigration officials.

For US immigration officers, the letter must clearly convey key information: the purpose of the visit, the relationship between the applicant and the inviter, the planned duration of stay, and the details of accommodation and financial support. This helps the consulate evaluate the credibility of the applicant’s intentions and the likelihood that they will comply with the terms of their visa.

This article will guide you through the process of writing an effective invitation letter for a US visa, covering its purpose, key elements and common mistakes to avoid.

Section A: What is an Invitation Letter for a US Visa?

An invitation letter for a US visa is a formal written document sent by a US-based individual — usually a family member, friend, or business associate — to a foreign national intending to visit the United States.

Invitation letters can play an important role in the visa application process, as they help to clarify the applicant’s travel intentions, ties to the US and the purpose of their visit.

Although an invitation letter is not a requirement for all US visa types, it can be a powerful tool to support a visitor’s application, particularly when applying for a B2 visitor visa or other short-term nonimmigrant visas.

1. Should You Include an Invitation Letter in Your Visa Application?

An invitation letter can be useful for a US visa application for a number of reasons. It can provide US immigration authorities with insight into the visitor’s purpose for traveling, the relationship with the inviter and the financial and logistical arrangements for their stay. The letter can help the applicant demonstrate to US officials that they have a legitimate reason for visiting and that they are not likely to overstay their visa.

While the letter itself does not guarantee visa approval, it can strengthen the applicant’s case by addressing some of the concerns consular officers may have about the visit’s intentions.

2. Invitation Letters for Different Types of Visas

While a visa invitation letter is not a mandatory requirement, it can be highly effective for a number of different types of immigration applications.

Since different types of visas have different requirements and purposes, the content of the invitation letter should reflect the relevant visa category being applied for. However, regardless of the visa, the primary role of the letter remains the same: to confirm the visitor’s intentions, ties to their home country, and the legitimacy of their trip to the United States.

a. B2 Tourist Visa

The most common type of visa for visitors to the US, the B2 Tourist Visa, is typically used for short-term visits for leisure, tourism, or medical treatment. The invitation letter for a B2 visa should clearly explain the purpose of the visit—whether for sightseeing, attending an event, or seeking medical care.

The inviter should provide details about their relationship to the applicant, where the visitor will stay, and how the applicant will be supported during their stay. This letter assures the immigration officer that the applicant is visiting temporarily and will return to their home country.

b. B1 Business Visa

A Business Visa (B1) is used by individuals traveling to the US for professional purposes, such as meetings, conferences, training, or negotiations. An invitation letter for a B1 visa should outline the nature of the business trip, the inviter’s company, and how the applicant will contribute to or participate in the event or business activity. It may also include information about any financial arrangements related to the trip, such as who will cover the applicant’s expenses. The letter should make it clear that the visit is short-term and strictly for business purposes.

c. Family Visas (B2 or Immigrant Visa)

For individuals visiting family members in the US, the invitation letter may be used to clarify the familial relationship and the reason for the visit, such as attending a family reunion, wedding, or other important events.

In cases where the applicant is applying for a family-based immigrant visa, the letter will serve to demonstrate the support and sponsorship of a US citizen or permanent resident, but the content of the letter differs from that of a typical visitor visa.

Section B: Role of the Invitation Letter

One of the primary functions of an invitation letter is to clarify the purpose of the applicant’s trip. The letter outlines why the applicant is traveling to the US, whether it’s for tourism, business, or family purposes.

For US immigration officers, understanding the purpose of the visit is essential in determining whether the applicant meets the criteria for a temporary visitor visa. Without a detailed explanation of the purpose, the consular officer may have concerns about the applicant’s intentions.

1. Assuring the US Consulate of the Applicant’s Intent to Return Home

One of the most critical aspects of the visa application process is demonstrating that the applicant will return to their home country after the visit. US immigration authorities want to ensure that the applicant is not attempting to immigrate unlawfully or overstay their visa. The invitation letter can help alleviate these concerns by providing information that shows the applicant has strong ties to their home country and intends to return.

The letter may include details about the applicant’s employment, family commitments, or property ownership in their home country—factors that demonstrate their connection to their country of origin and intention to return after their temporary stay in the US. Furthermore, the inviter can emphasize that the visit is short-term, providing specifics on the dates of travel and the planned duration of the stay. This can reassure the consular officer that the applicant’s visit is not an attempt to remain in the US illegally.

2. Providing Evidence of Financial Support, Accommodation, and Travel Plans

Another critical role of the invitation letter is to demonstrate how the applicant’s trip will be funded and where they will stay during their time in the US. In many cases, the applicant may not have the financial resources to cover all their expenses while abroad, so the inviter can offer to support the applicant financially and provide accommodation.

The letter can specify who will bear the cost of the trip, including travel, lodging, and daily expenses, and provide details of how these costs will be covered. If the inviter is offering to cover these costs, the letter should outline their financial capacity to do so, often backed by supporting documents such as bank statements or employment records. This helps assure the US consulate that the applicant will not become a financial burden on the US during their stay.

The invitation letter may also address the applicant’s accommodation plans, specifying where they will stay (whether with the inviter or at a hotel) and the duration of the stay. By providing concrete details about where the applicant will be residing, the letter further supports the idea that the applicant’s visit is well-planned and organized.

The invitation letter also helps confirm the travel itinerary, particularly for tourist or business visits. By providing dates of arrival and departure, the letter reinforces the temporary nature of the applicant’s trip. It serves as evidence that the applicant has a well-defined travel plan and that they do not intend to remain in the US beyond the duration allowed by their visa.

Section C: Who Should Write the Invitation Letter?

An invitation letter should be written by an appropriate individual with a legitimate connection to both the applicant and the United States. This individual must meet specific eligibility requirements and provide clear details about their own status in the US, as well as their relationship with the applicant.

1. Eligibility of the Person Writing the Invitation Letter

The individual writing the invitation letter must be either a US citizen, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or a valid visa holder. These individuals have the legal status to invite a foreign national to visit the United States, and their status is important to establishing the legitimacy of the visit.

a. US Citizens

A US citizen can invite a foreign national to visit the US for various purposes, including tourism, business, or family visits. The invitation letter written by a US citizen is often viewed as the most straightforward, as it shows that the visitor has an established connection to someone who is legally entitled to live and work in the US.

b. Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)

A lawful permanent resident (green card holder) can also write an invitation letter. However, it’s important to note that the immigration authority may require additional documentation regarding the inviter’s legal status. Permanent residents have the right to invite family members or friends for short-term visits, but their invitation may carry slightly different weight compared to that of a US citizen.

c.Visa Holders (Nonimmigrant Visa Holders)

Individuals who hold a valid nonimmigrant visa, such as an H1-B or student visa, can also write an invitation letter. However, these individuals must clarify that their invitation is based on their legal status in the US and ensure that their letter clearly demonstrates they have the necessary resources to support the visitor. The inviter should make it clear that they are authorized to be in the country during the applicant’s visit.

2. Details the Inviter Must Include About Their Status in the US

When writing the invitation letter, the inviter must include specific details about their status in the United States to help confirm their eligibility to issue the invitation and establish the legitimacy of their relationship with the applicant. These details will provide US immigration officials with important context regarding the inviter’s ability to accommodate the applicant and ensure they comply with the visa terms.

a. US Citizens

The inviter should state their US citizenship status and provide proof of this status, such as a copy of their US passport or naturalization certificate. Including these details helps establish that the inviter is a legal resident of the US with the authority to invite someone for a visit.

b. US Permanent Residents

Green card holders should indicate that they are a lawful permanent resident of the US and may also need to include a copy of their green card to prove their status. It’s helpful to specify how long they’ve been a resident in the US, as this can support their credibility in the eyes of the consulate.

c. US Visa Holders

Nonimmigrant visa holders should clearly state the type of visa they hold (e.g., H1-B, F1) and provide relevant information such as their visa expiration date and legal status in the US. If the inviter’s visa status is temporary, they may also need to explain how long they have been in the US and when they expect to leave, assuring the consulate that their stay is compliant with visa regulations.

3. Clarifying the Relationship Between the Inviter and the Applicant

The invitation letter must also clearly explain the relationship between the inviter and the applicant. This is essential because the consulate needs to understand the nature of the connection to ensure the applicant is visiting for a valid reason. The relationship details also help demonstrate the applicant’s ties to the US, which is important in proving that the visitor will return home after their trip.

a. Family Relationship

If the inviter is a family member, the letter should specify whether they are the applicant’s parent, sibling, spouse, child, or other relative. It should explain the nature of the relationship and provide documentation to support it, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or family records. For example, a letter from a US citizen inviting their parents to visit for a family reunion will include these details to confirm the familial bond.

b. Friendship or Other Relationships

If the inviter is a friend or acquaintance, the letter should provide context about how long they’ve known each other, how they are connected, and why the applicant is visiting. While letters from friends are still valid, they may require a bit more explanation to establish credibility.

c. Business Relationships

For business visa applicants, the inviter will explain the professional relationship, such as being a business partner, employer, or colleague, and should include relevant details about the professional relationship and the business activities planned during the trip.

Section D: Key Elements of a US Visa Invitation Letter

To ensure the invitation letter is effective, it must include key elements that address specific questions US consular officers may have. It should be comprehensive, clear, and detailed to provide the necessary information for US immigration authorities to assess the applicant’s intentions.

[Insert table 2: Key Elements of an Invitation Letter]

1. Full Name and Contact Information: The Inviter’s Details

The first key element of the invitation letter is the inviter’s personal information. This section should clearly state the full name of the person writing the letter and provide their contact information. This allows the consulate to verify the inviter’s identity and get in touch if they need further clarification or documents.

Essential details to include:

a. Full Name: The inviter’s complete legal name (as it appears on official documents).
b. Address: The full residential address in the US where the applicant will be staying (or where the inviter resides).
c. Contact Number: A phone number where the inviter can be reached during the application process.
d. Email Address: If applicable, include an email address for easy communication.
e. Status in the US: The inviter should specify whether they are a US citizen, permanent resident, or visa holder (including the type of visa they hold, if relevant).

Providing this information helps establish the inviter’s connection to the US and the legitimacy of the invitation.

2. Purpose of Visit

The letter must explain the exact reason for the applicant’s visit to the United States. This is crucial in helping US immigration authorities understand why the applicant is traveling and ensure that their visit is for a legitimate and temporary purpose. The purpose of the visit should be clearly stated and aligned with the visa type being applied for.

Possible purposes to include:

a. Tourism: Visiting for sightseeing, attending cultural events, or experiencing American landmarks.
b. Business: Attending conferences, meetings, or exploring business opportunities.
c. Family Visit: Attending a family reunion, celebrating a wedding, or visiting relatives.
d. Medical Treatment: Visiting for treatment at a US-based medical facility.

Setting out a clear purpose helps the consulate verify that the applicant’s trip is consistent with the visa category and will not lead to an overstayed visa.

3. Visitor’s Details

The invitation letter should include key details about the visitor to ensure the consulate understands who the applicant is and verifies their identity. This information helps establish the connection between the inviter and the applicant and strengthens the application.

Details to include about the visitor:

a. Full Name: The visitor’s complete name (matching the passport).
b. Passport Information: The passport number, date of issue, and expiry date. This helps the consulate confirm the validity of the applicant’s travel document.
c. Date of Birth and Nationality: The applicant’s birth date and nationality.
d. Relationship with the Inviter: The relationship between the inviter and the applicant should be clearly stated (e.g., family member, friend, business partner).

By including these details, the letter helps the consular officers understand the identity of the visitor and the validity of their travel plans.

4. Dates and Duration of Stay

The invitation letter should clearly specify the applicant’s intended travel dates and how long they plan to stay in the US. This information is essential for US immigration officers to assess the temporary nature of the visit and determine whether the visa applicant intends to overstay their permitted time in the US.

Details to include:

a. Expected Arrival Date: The date the visitor plans to arrive in the US.
b. Departure Date: The date the visitor plans to depart the US and return to their home country.
c. Duration of Stay: The total number of days the applicant plans to stay, which should align with the visa type and the purpose of the visit.

A clear statement of the dates helps confirm that the visit will be temporary and in line with the applicant’s visa conditions.

5. Accommodation and Financial Support

An important aspect of the invitation letter is showing that the applicant will have accommodation during their stay and how they will support themselves financially while in the US. Immigration officers will want to see that the applicant will not become a financial burden on the US government during their visit.

Details to include:

a. Accommodation: The letter should state where the visitor will be staying—whether at the inviter’s residence, a hotel, or another place. If the inviter is providing accommodation, this should be clearly stated, and the inviter may need to provide proof of sufficient space, such as a lease or utility bill.

b. Financial Support: The inviter should explain how the applicant’s expenses will be covered, whether by the inviter or the applicant themselves. If the inviter is financially supporting the applicant, the letter should include a statement affirming this and provide evidence of the inviter’s ability to do so, such as recent bank statements or proof of income.

6. Statement of Return

A vital component of the invitation letter is the assurance that the visitor will return to their home country after the visit. US immigration authorities want to ensure that applicants do not overstay their visa or seek to immigrate illegally. Therefore, the letter should include a statement that the applicant will return to their home country once their visit is complete.

Details to include:

a. Assurance of Return: The inviter should clearly state that the applicant intends to return to their home country after the visit and will not attempt to stay in the US illegally.

b. Visitor’s Ties to Home Country: If possible, the inviter can briefly mention the applicant’s ties to their home country, such as employment, family, or property ownership. This reinforces the idea that the applicant has strong reasons to return home after their stay in the US.

This also helps ease any concerns the consulate may have about the applicant’s intention to overstay their visa.

Section E: Format of an Invitation Letter

An invitation letter for a US visa should follow a formal and structured format to ensure that all necessary information is included. The letter should be clear, concise, and professional to demonstrate the legitimacy of the visitor’s trip and establish a solid connection between the inviter and the applicant.

1. Sample Structure of an Invitation Letter for a US Visa

The letter should be addressed to the US Consulate or Embassy where the applicant is filing their application.

The following is a helpful layout for an invitation letter:

Dear Sir/Madam,

I, [Inviter’s Full Name], am a [US Citizen/Green Card Holder/Valid Visa Holder] residing at [Your Address]. I am writing this letter to invite [Visitor’s Full Name], who is my [state the relationship, e.g., father, mother, friend, business associate], to visit me in the United States for the purpose of [state the reason, e.g., tourism, attending a business meeting, family reunion] from [start date] to [end date].

Visitor’s Details

[Visitor’s Full Name] is a [citizen of country] with passport number [passport number]. He/She is currently residing in [Country Name] and will be traveling to the US to visit me.

Purpose of Visit

The purpose of [Visitor’s Full Name]’s visit is to [state purpose, e.g., spend time with family, attend a business conference, enjoy a holiday in the US, etc.]. During this time, I will accompany him/her to visit various places such as [mention destinations or events planned, if applicable].

Accommodation and Financial Support

I will be providing accommodation for [Visitor’s Full Name] during his/her stay at my home at the above-mentioned address. I will also be covering all travel, living, and medical expenses for the duration of his/her visit. I have attached a copy of my financial documents to verify my ability to support these expenses, including my bank statements and a copy of my ID.

Dates and Duration of Stay
[Visitor’s Full Name] plans to arrive in the US on [Arrival Date] and depart on [Departure Date]. The total duration of the visit will be [state number of days].

Statement of Return
I fully assure you that [Visitor’s Full Name] will return to [his/her] home country before the expiration of the visa. [Visitor’s Full Name] has strong ties to [his/her] home country, including [mention ties, such as family, job, or property], and intends to return after the visit.

Thank you for considering this request. Should you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address]. I look forward to your positive response.

Sincerely,

[Your Signature (if submitting a hard copy)]

[Your Full Name][Your Title/Occupation, if applicable][Your Contact Information]

2. Example of an Invitation Letter

To illustrate, the following is an example of how to write an invitation letter for a visa:

Subject: Invitation Letter for Mary Johnson

Dear Sir/Madam,

I, John Doe, a US citizen residing at 1234 Elm Street, New York, NY 10001, am writing to invite Mary Johnson, my mother, who resides in London, UK, to visit me in the United States for tourism purposes. Her planned visit will be from December 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025.

Mary Johnson, a UK citizen, holds passport number 987654321. The purpose of her visit is to spend time with me and tour various cities in the US, including New York, Washington DC, and Los Angeles. We plan to visit landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the White House, and other major attractions during her stay.

During her visit, Mary will stay with me at my residence. I will cover all of
her expenses, including travel, accommodation, and medical costs. I have attached my bank statements for the last three months, along with a copy of my US passport as proof of my financial capacity to support her stay.

Mary plans to arrive on December 1, 2024, and return to London on January 15, 2025. I assure you that she will return to the UK as she has a job and family commitments there, including a daughter and a home that she is responsible for.

Please do not hesitate to contact me at (123) 456-7890 or john.doe@email.com if you need any further information. Thank you for considering her visa application.

Sincerely,

[Signature]

John DoeUS Citizen
(123) 456-7890
john.doe@email.com

Section F: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing an Invitation Letter

While an invitation letter can be incredibly valuable for a visa application, certain common mistakes can undermine the overall strength of an application. Avoiding these errors can significantly improve the chances of approval.

[Insert table 4: Common Visa Application Mistakes to Avoid]

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Information

One of the most common mistakes is providing incomplete or incorrect information in the invitation letter. US immigration officials need accurate details to evaluate the visa application properly. Any omission or error in the invited person’s information, the inviter’s status, or travel plans can lead to confusion and delay in processing the visa application.

Common errors include:

a. Misspelled Names or Inaccurate Details: Ensure the names of the visitor and inviter match exactly as they appear on official documents, such as passports. Incorrect spellings can raise doubts about the legitimacy of the letter.

b. Incomplete Contact Information: Missing or incorrect contact details (such as the inviter’s phone number, email address, or address) can hinder communication or verification.

c. Missing Passport Details: Failing to include the visitor’s passport number, date of issue, and expiration date could delay processing, as these are key pieces of information that US immigration requires.

Ensure that the letter contains accurate, complete, and up-to-date details. Double-check all information, including names, passport numbers, dates, and addresses, before submitting the letter.

2. Lack of Clarity on the Visitor’s Return Plans

Applications for nonimmigrant visas have to demonstrate that the applicant intends to return to their home country after their trip. If the invitation letter does not clearly explain the visitor’s plans for returning home, the consulate may question the temporary nature of the visit.

Common errors include:

a. Vague or Weak Statements of Return: A generic statement like “I promise I will return” is insufficient. It is important to provide concrete reasons for why the visitor will go back to their home country.

b. Failure to Mention Ties to Home Country: The letter should explain the visitor’s ties to their home country—such as employment, family, property, or educational commitments—that will ensure their return after their trip.

Be explicit about the visitor’s return plans. Include specific information that shows their strong ties to their home country, such as details about their job, family, or property, and mention the duration of their planned visit.

3. Missing or Insufficient Supporting Documents

Another common mistake is failing to include necessary supporting documents or not providing enough proof to back up the claims made in the invitation letter. Supporting documents, such as financial statements, proof of accommodation, or copies of the inviter’s status in the US, are crucial for verifying the claims made in the letter.

Common errors include:

a. Lack of Financial Documentation: If the inviter is covering the visitor’s expenses, the letter should include financial documentation, such as bank statements or a letter from the inviter’s employer, to prove they can financially support the visitor.

b. Failure to Include Proof of Relationship: For family visits, failing to include documents that establish the relationship (like birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.) can make the letter seem less credible.

c. No Proof of Legal Status in the US: If the inviter is a visa holder or a permanent resident, they should provide proof of their legal status in the US (e.g., a copy of their green card, visa, or passport).

Always include relevant supporting documents to verify the details mentioned in the invitation letter. Financial documents, proof of accommodation, and legal status verification should all be attached to the letter. Make sure these documents are clear, accurate, and easy to understand.

4. Failing to Provide a Clear and Specific Purpose of the Visit

The purpose of the visit should be clearly defined in the invitation letter. A vague or overly general explanation can leave the consulate unsure about the applicant’s intentions.

Common errors include:

a. Overly Broad or Ambiguous Purpose: A statement like “visiting for some time” or “on vacation” without further detail is unhelpful. The invitation letter should specifically mention what the visitor plans to do, such as attending a family event, a business meeting, or touring certain cities.

b. Inconsistent Purpose: The purpose mentioned in the invitation letter should align with the visa type being applied for. If the letter mentions tourism, but the applicant is applying for a business visa, this discrepancy could raise doubts.

Be specific about the purpose of the visit. If the visit is for tourism, mention the specific places the visitor intends to see or activities they will engage in. If the purpose is business-related, specify the nature of the business meetings or conferences.

5. Informal or Unprofessional Tone

The invitation letter should maintain a professional and formal tone. A letter that is too casual or overly friendly can create a negative impression and reduce its effectiveness in a visa application.

Common errors include:

a. Casual Language: Using informal greetings like “Hey” or signing off with “Best regards” may not reflect the seriousness of the request.

b. Excessive Personal Details: Including too much irrelevant personal information, such as unnecessary details about the inviter’s hobbies or unrelated family matters, can detract from the professionalism of the letter.

Keep the letter formal and professional. Use appropriate business language and maintain a respectful tone throughout. Stick to the relevant facts and ensure the letter is concise and to the point.

6. Not Following the Correct Format

Failure to follow the correct format for the invitation letter can cause confusion and delay. The letter should be structured clearly, with all the necessary sections presented in a logical order.

Common errors include:

a. Unorganized Letter Structure: A letter that jumps between topics or doesn’t follow a clear progression of information can confuse the reader.

b. Incorrect Salutation or Subject Line: Use formal greetings like “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern,” and ensure the subject line is clear and directly relevant to the purpose of the letter.

Follow a standard formal letter format, starting with the inviter’s details, followed by the purpose of the letter, visitor’s details, dates, accommodation, financial support, and return statement. Keep the letter structured and easy to follow.

Section G: Additional Documents to Submit with the Invitation Letter

When applying for a US visa, an invitation letter is an important supporting document, but it’s not enough on its own to guarantee approval. Applicants will need to provide a number of supporting documents to evidence their eligibility to the US immigration authorities.

While the specific documents will depend on the visa category being applied for, the following will typically be needed:

[Insert table 3: Common Supporting Documents for a Visa Application]

1. Proof of Financial Stability (for the Inviter)

One of the primary concerns of US immigration authorities is ensuring that the visitor will not become a financial burden during their stay. To address this concern, the inviter should provide proof of their financial stability. This helps establish that the inviter has the means to support the visitor financially during their time in the US.

Documents can include:

a. Bank Statements: Recent bank statements (typically from the last 3 to 6 months) that show sufficient funds to cover the visitor’s accommodation, travel, and living expenses.

b. Employment or Income Verification: A letter from the inviter’s employer (if applicable) confirming their job title, salary, and employment status, or recent pay stubs to prove they have a steady income.

c. Tax Returns (Optional): Copies of recent tax returns or W-2 forms that can further validate the inviter’s financial standing.

2. ID Document Copy (of the Inviter)

A copy of the inviter’s ID is needed to verify their identity and legal status in the US. It ensures that the inviter is a legitimate US citizen, permanent resident, or visa holder and that they are authorized to host the visitor.

Documents can include:

a. US Passport (for US citizens): A clear, legible copy of the inviter’s passport’s biographical page (showing name, passport number, and issue/expiry dates).

b. Green Card (for Permanent Residents): A copy of the inviter’s permanent resident card (green card).

c. Visa Copy (for Nonimmigrant Visa Holders): A copy of the inviter’s visa, along with the visa details (type, expiration date, etc.).

3. Proof of Relationship (with the Visitor)

To establish the authenticity of the relationship between the inviter and the visitor, the inviter should include proof that supports their connection. This is especially important for family visits, as immigration officers need to confirm that the visitor is indeed a close relative of the inviter.

Documents can include:

a. Birth or Marriage Certificates: These documents can prove familial ties, such as if the inviter is the visitor’s parent, spouse, or sibling.

b. Photos or Communication Records (for Friends): For non-familial relationships (such as friends or business associates), providing evidence of ongoing communication (e.g., emails, photos from past visits, letters, etc.) can help strengthen the relationship claim.

4. Visa Status Verification (for the Inviter, if Applicable)

If the inviter is a nonimmigrant visa holder (e.g., H-1B, F-1), it is necessary to submit documents that confirm their legal status in the US. This provides further assurance that the inviter is legally residing in the US and is allowed to extend an invitation.

Documents can include:

a. I-20 Form (for Students): If the inviter is an F-1 student visa holder, a copy of their I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) should be provided.

b. I-797 Form (for Work Visa Holders): For individuals on H-1B, L-1, or similar work visas, a copy of the I-797 (Notice of Action) form should be included to prove valid status.

5. Travel Itinerary and Accommodation Details

To ensure the visitor has a clear plan for their stay, it is beneficial to submit details about the travel itinerary, including flight bookings and accommodation arrangements. If the visitor will be staying with the inviter, this should be clearly stated, with supporting documentation.

Documents can include:

a. Flight Reservations: A copy of the flight booking or itinerary to show that the visitor has planned their arrival and departure.

b. Hotel Reservations (if applicable): If the visitor will not be staying with the inviter, proof of hotel bookings or other accommodation arrangements should be provided.

c. Accommodation Proof (if staying with the inviter): A lease agreement, utility bills, or property ownership documents that show the inviter has enough space to accommodate the visitor.

6. Additional Proof of Ties to Home Country (for the Visitor)

It is essential to show that the visitor has strong ties to their home country and intends to return after the trip. This reduces concerns about overstaying the visa.

Documents can include:

a. Employment Verification: A letter from the visitor’s employer or recent pay stubs that show they are employed and expected to return to work after the visit.

b. Property Ownership Documents: If the visitor owns property or has significant assets in their home country, providing proof of ownership can reinforce the visitor’s commitment to returning.

c. Family Ties: Documents proving the visitor’s family relationships (such as dependent children or elderly parents) can strengthen the case that they have reasons to return home.

Section H: Summary

An invitation letter for a US visa is a formal document written by a US citizen, permanent resident, or a valid visa holder to invite a foreign national to the United States for a specific purpose.

While not always mandatory, it can serve as strong supporting evidence in a visa application, especially for B1 (business) and B2 (tourist) visas. The letter can help demonstrate the legitimacy of the visit and assure US immigration officials of the applicant’s intent to return to their home country after the visit.

The invitation letter typically includes key details such as the inviter’s full name, contact information, and legal status in the US, as well as the visitor’s information, the purpose of the visit, and the expected dates of travel. It may also outline financial support arrangements, particularly if the inviter will cover the visitor’s expenses.

Section I: Need Assistance?

For specialist advice on a US visa application, including how to write an invitation letter, contact our immigration attorneys.

Section J: FAQs

Do I need to submit an invitation letter for a US visa?
An invitation letter is not always required but is highly recommended for visitor visas, such as B2 (tourist) and B1 (business) visas. It can strengthen your application by providing evidence of the purpose of your visit and your ties to the inviter in the US.

Who can write an invitation letter for a US visa?
The invitation letter must be written by someone legally residing in the US. This can include a US citizen, permanent resident, or a valid visa holder. The person should have a legitimate relationship with the applicant.

Is an invitation letter a guarantee for visa approval?
An invitation letter does not guarantee that your visa will be approved. It serves as supporting evidence of the visit’s purpose but does not replace other required documents or criteria set by US immigration authorities.

What information should be included in an invitation letter?
The letter should include details such as the inviter’s full name, address, contact information, legal status in the US, the visitor’s details, purpose of the visit, dates of stay, and financial support information. It should also include a statement assuring the visitor’s return to their home country.

Can a friend write an invitation letter, or does it have to be a family member?
A friend can write the invitation letter. However, it should clearly explain the nature of the relationship and the purpose of the visit. The letter should also include sufficient supporting details to strengthen the visa application.

What supporting documents should accompany the invitation letter?
Supporting documents may include the inviter’s proof of financial stability, passport copy, proof of relationship, and evidence of accommodation arrangements. These documents help substantiate the claims made in the invitation letter.

Can the invitation letter be sent as an email, or does it need to be a physical letter?
In most cases, a scanned copy of the invitation letter sent via email is sufficient. However, it’s best to check the specific requirements of the US consulate where the application is being processed.

How long before my planned travel should I submit the visa application and invitation letter?
It’s advisable to apply for your visa at least a few weeks to a couple of months before your intended travel date. This allows time for processing and any additional documents that might be requested by US immigration authorities.

Can I submit an invitation letter written in a language other than English?
The invitation letter should be written in English. If it is written in another language, you must provide a certified translation along with the original letter.

Does the inviter need to notarize the invitation letter?
Notarizing the letter is generally not required unless specifically requested by the US consulate. However, notarization can add an extra level of formality and credibility.

What happens if the information in the invitation letter does not match the visa application?
Discrepancies between the invitation letter and the visa application can lead to delays or even denial of the visa. Ensure all information is consistent and accurate to avoid complications.

Section K: Glossary

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Section L: Additional Resources

US Department of State – Travel
https://travel.state.gov
Official resource from the US Department of State that provides comprehensive information on visa types, application processes, and requirements for visitors to the US.

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
https://www.uscis.gov
The official website for US Citizenship and Immigration Services, where you can find details about various visa processes, forms, and instructions for immigrants and nonimmigrants.

Consular Affairs – US Embassy & Consulates
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html
A section of the US Department of State’s website focused on US visa information, including requirements, forms, and updates on visa issuance.

Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) – USCIS
https://www.uscis.gov/laws-and-policy
Access to the full text of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which provides the legal foundation for US immigration policy and procedures.

US Embassy & Consulates in the United Kingdom
https://uk.usembassy.gov/visas/
The US Embassy in London’s website, providing visa information for residents in the United Kingdom, including application instructions and supporting documentation requirements.