invitation letter to visit usa for friend

• Immigration

U.S. Visa Invitation Letter Guide with Sample Letters

Learn how to write an invitation letter for a u.s. visa with detailed information and two sample invitation letters. get a u.s. visa invitation letter sample today..

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to write a U.S. visa invitation letter with key components, formatting tips, and sample letters to help you craft your own.
• An invitation letter can be a useful piece of evidence for the U.S. Consulate, showing the visitor’s intent and reason to return.
• Include important details such as your full name, address, relationship with the visitor, purpose of visit, and your intention to cover expenses.

If you’re planning to invite friends or family to visit you in the United States, one of the requirements they may need to fulfill is obtaining a U.S. visa. As a part of this process, an invitation letter written by you can help establish the purpose of their visit. In this blog post, we’ll cover how to write an invitation letter for a U.S. visa and provide two sample invitation letters to help you craft your own.

Understanding the Importance of a U.S. Visa Invitation Letter

A U.S. Visa Invitation Letter is a personal document, and while it is not a mandatory requirement, it can be a useful piece of evidence that shows the U.S. Consulate that the visitor has a reason to return to their home country after visiting the United States. It can also explain why you are inviting them, which may help the consulate understand the visitor’s intent.

Key Components of an Invitation Letter

When writing a U.S. Visa Invitation Letter, it should include the following information:

• Your full name, date of birth, address and telephone number in the United States.
• Your occupation and your status in the United States.
• A clear statement of your relationship with the visiting individual.
• Detailed information on the planned visit including the purposes of traveling, where the visitor will stay, and how long the visit will last.
• Your intention to cover all living expenses, accommodation, and travel costs, if applicable.

It’s also helpful if the letter can include details such as:

• Your legal status in the U.S. (e.g., citizen, permanent resident).
• The visitor’s full name, date of birth, and their address and telephone number.

Remember to sign and date the letter. Attach any supporting documents, like a photocopy of your ID or passport, evidence of your status in the U.S., and proof of your relationship with the visitor.

Also of Interest:

H-1b visa processing times and fees chart, how much is the cost of h-1b application process, formatting the invitation letter.

The U.S. Visa Invitation Letter should be formal, yet personal. It usually does not need to be notarized, but it should be typed and printed on standard paper. The tone should be welcoming and warm, reflecting the personal nature of the invitation.

Sample Invitation Letter 1

Here is a simple sample of what an invitation letter might look like:

[Your Full Name] [Your Street Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

Consulate General of [Visitor’s Home Country] [Countries Consular Address]

Subject: Invitation for [Visitor’s Full Name], Passport No: [Visitor’s Passport Number]

Dear Consulate,

I, [Your Full Name], residing at [Your Address], am writing this letter to support the visa application of my [relationship, e.g., friend], [Visitor’s Full Name].

[Visitor’s Full Name] plans to visit the United States briefly for leisure and sightseeing purposes. During their stay, which we anticipate lasting from [arrival date] to [departure date], [he/she/they] will be staying with me at my home. The address is listed above. I will be taking time off work to show [him/her/them] around the city and ensure [he/she/they] experience the diverse cultural heritage of our country.

I am a [Your Occupation] and residing in the U.S. as a [Your Status, e.g., U.S. citizen/permanent resident]. I am providing this letter to attest to my intention to support [Visitor’s Full Name] during [his/her/their] visit. I will ensure to cover all expenses, including but not limited to boarding, food, and travel expenses within the U.S. during the duration of [his/her/their] stay.

Thank you for considering this application. Please feel free to contact me if any further information is required.

[Your Signature] [Typed Name]

Sample Invitation Letter 2

For a different scenario or relationship type, the letter might look slightly different:

[Your Full Name] [Your Occupation] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Date]

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) [Service Center Address]

Subject: Invitation Letter for [Family Member’s Full Name]

Dear Sir/Madam,

I’m writing this letter to provide details regarding my invitation for [Family Member’s Full Name] to visit me in the United States.

My name is [Your Full Name], and I’m a [Your Status, e.g., legal permanent resident] working as a [Your Occupation] here in [City, State]. I live at the address above and have been a resident there for the past [number of years/months] years.

I would like to invite [Family Member’s Full Name], who is my [relationship, e.g., mother/father/sibling] to visit me in the United States for [length of the visit]. During their visit, they will be residing with me at my home.

It has been [number of years/months] years since we last saw each other, and this visit would mean a great deal to both of us. We plan to spend quality time and I will also take them to visit various tourist attractions such as [mention specific places or landmarks].

I will ensure that my [family member’s relationship] will have all the necessary care and resources at their disposal and am prepared to bear all the costs during their stay in the United States.

Attached are copies of documents proving my status in the United States and evidence of my financial ability to support this visit.

Please feel free to reach out to me for any further information or clarification needed to process this request.

Appreciatively,

[Your Signature] [Your Full Name]

When sending the invitation letter, it’s advised to include it with the rest of the applicant’s documentation. Visit the official U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs website for further guidelines on supporting documents for visa applications.

Crafting an invitation letter for a U.S. visa is an opportunity to help facilitate a smooth visa application process for someone you care about. By following the guidelines and using the sample invitation letters provided, you can create a welcoming and supportive document that helps underscore the visitor’s intentions and your support during their visit.

Learn Today:

U.S. Consulate: An official office of the U.S. government located in other countries, responsible for providing consular services to U.S. citizens and processing visa applications.

U.S. Visa Invitation Letter: A personal document written by a U.S. resident or citizen inviting someone from another country to visit the United States. It serves as evidence of the purpose of the visit and may provide details about the inviter and the relationship between the inviter and the visitor.

U.S. Consulate General: A high-level diplomatic officer representing the U.S. government and providing consular services to U.S. citizens in other countries.

Relationship: The connection or bond between the inviter and the visitor, such as being friends, family members, or relatives.

Living Expenses: Costs related to day-to-day necessities, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other essential needs.

Legal Status: The immigration status or classification of an individual in the United States, indicating whether they are a citizen, permanent resident, or have another lawful status.

Notarized: The process of having a document officially certified by a notary public, confirming the authenticity of the signatures and the document’s content.

Photocopy: A reproduction or duplicate of an original document made through the use of a photocopier or scanning device.

Supporting Documents: Additional evidence or documentation submitted along with the invitation letter to strengthen the visitor’s visa application, such as a copy of the inviter’s ID or passport, proof of legal status in the U.S., and proof of relationship with the visitor.

USCIS: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, an agency within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security responsible for administering the nation’s immigration system.

Service Center: Regional offices of USCIS responsible for processing immigration petitions and applications.

Legal Permanent Resident: An individual who has been granted lawful permanent residence in the United States through obtaining a green card, indicating their status as a permanent resident.

Tourist Attractions: Places or landmarks of interest to visitors that are popular for sightseeing or leisure activities.

Bureau of Consular Affairs: A bureau within the U.S. Department of State responsible for providing visa services, protecting U.S. citizens overseas, and managing U.S. passports and other travel documents.

Visa Application: The process of applying for a visa to enter a country, which involves submitting required forms and supporting documents, attending an interview if necessary, and paying applicable fees.

So, there you have it! Writing an invitation letter for a U.S. visa doesn’t have to be daunting. Just remember to include all the necessary information, keep it warm and personal, and attach any supporting documents. If you want more guidance and sample letters, head over to visaverge.com. They’ve got all the visa-related info you need. Happy letter writing!

This Article in a Nutshell:

To invite friends or family to the U.S., they may need a visa. An invitation letter can help establish the purpose of their visit. Include your contact details, relationship, visit details, and your intention to cover expenses. Keep the tone warm and personal. Remember to sign, date, and attach supporting documents.

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How to Write a Sample Invitation Letter for a U.S. Visitor Visa

Home » How to Write a Sample Invitation Letter for a U.S. Visitor Visa

July 25, 2021

There are various mandatory requirements to obtain a visa when visiting the United States. However, a letter of invitation from the American host is not one of them. The U.S. citizen or resident who will host the visiting B-2 visa holder may send a letter, but an invitation is not required. The letter cannot guarantee visa issuance, but it may be helpful in some situations. Many people feel more comfortable sending a letter, and we’ve provided a sample invitation letter for a visitor visa below.

Visitor Visa Requirements

B-2 visa applicants must qualify for the visitor visa according to their own circumstances, not on the basis of a sponsor’s letter or assurances. Based on the merits of the application and interview, a consular officer determines whether or not the applicant qualifies for a visa. In fact, to qualify for a B-2 visitor visa to the United States, applicants must meet the following three criteria:

Have a residence in a foreign country to which they will return to after their temporary visit;

Intend to enter the united states for a period of a specifically limited duration;, will go to the united states to engage in activities consistent with the visa., mistakes on uscis forms can cause costly delays or a denial., b-2 letter of invitation explained.

A B-2 letter of invitation is simply a letter written by the U.S. host to demonstrate that the visitor has a place to stay during the trip to the United States. Generally, the letter carries more weight if written by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. The letter should state that the host is willing and able to accommodate the visitors during the specified duration of the trip. The host may include specific dates or a general period in which the visitor is welcome. It’s also helpful to state if the host and visitor have family ties or are friends. There is no requirement for an invitation letter for visitor visa. Therefore, there are no hard requirements for the letter. With that said, a letter should generally contain the following:

• Host’s full name and contact information
• Guest’s full name and contact information
• Guest’s relationship to the host
• Purpose of the planned visit, including the event (if applicable) or places you will visit
• Duration the visitor will stay with you or where you’ve made arrangements for him or her to stay
• Financial arrangements to cover the guest’s expenses during the visit (if applicable)
• Signature of the host

Write the letter in your own words, but try to be as specific as possible. We’ve included a sample invitation letter for a visitor visa below.

Sample Invitation Letter for Visitor Visa: Friends

Enzo & Gianna Russo Via Torquato Tasso, 26 71010 Lesina FG, Italy

March 22, 2019

Dear Enzo and Gianna,

I would like to invite you to come visit me in the United States this summer. You are welcome to stay at my home during for the duration of the trip. I understand that you have four weeks of holiday, but you are welcome to stay longer if needed.

During your visit, I plan to take you on several excursions to our theme parks (Disneyworld and Universal Orlando) and museums. I know you son is interested in space travel. I’m trying to arrange a visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex as well.

I understand you plan to cover your own expenses for travel and incidentals. However, I will submit Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support, to guarantee your financial support.

I look forward to seeing you and your family.

Edwardo Sauvigne 26000 Whispering Trails Ave Winter Have, FL 33884 Home: (863) 555-1212 Mobile: (863) 555-1212

Sample Invitation Letter for a Visitor Visa: Family

Gurpreet & Jyothi Ahuja 337, Rajiv Gandhi St Uthandi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600119 India

October 1, 2020

Dear Mom and Dad,

I would like to invite you to come visit me in the United States for my wedding on March 6, 2021. In addition to this special event, I am excited to have you spend time with Anika and see our city.

I will cover all of your expenses for the trip, including travel to and from the United States. During your two weeks with us, you will stay at my home, and I will provide all meals. I also plan to purchase you a visitor’s insurance plan and cover any other costs that come up during your trip.

Anika and I are extremely anxious to see you and have you participate in our wedding. We look forward to seeing you in March.

Hiten Ahuja 9601 Skyline Way Grand Prairie, TX 75051 Home: (972) 555-1212 Mobile: (972) 555-1212

Stronger Evidence to Support a B-2 Visa Application

For visitors that are currently unemployed, don’t have property and generally lack financial assets, it can be more difficult to demonstrate strong ties to their home country. In these cases, immigration officials become concerned that they will try to stay in the United States. A Declaration of Financial Support can help remove this doubt.

Known as Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support , the form shows that someone in the United States is willing to take financial responsibility for you. If you can prove that you are financially independent or are employed in your home country, you typically don’t need a Form I-134.

Form I-134 is a reassurance by the U.S. supporter to step in and assist if you unable to pay your expenses during the course of your U.S. visit.

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Invitation Letter Guide for U.S. Visa (B1/B2) Applications

For many individuals planning a visit to the United States on a B1/B2 Visa, presenting a well-crafted invitation letter can significantly strengthen their application. While not mandatory, an invitation letter from a U.S. citizen or Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) can positively impact the visa process, especially when it highlights strong ties to the applicant’s home country. Here, we explain what makes an effective invitation letter for a U.S. visitor visa.

Keys to a B Visa Invitation Letter

An effective invitation letter should communicate:

• Host’s Details: Include the host’s name, status in the U.S. (citizen or LPR), contact information, and address.
• Visitor’s Information: Please provide your full name, date of birth, passport number, and contact information.
• Relationship: Clarify the nature of your relationship with the host.
• Visit Details: State the purpose, exact duration, and itinerary of your visit, including accommodation arrangements.
• Financial Responsibility: It should be explicitly mentioned if the host bears any costs.

Structure of the Letter

The letter should originate from the host and detail their relationship with the visitor. It should be dated, contain both parties’ full information, and specify the hosting arrangements and travel dates. Crucially, it should emphasize the temporary nature of the stay in the U.S.

Sample B Visa Invitation Letter

Below is a template of how such a letter might be structured:

[Host’s Full Legal Name]

[Host’s Full U.S. Address]

Dear [Visitor’s Full Legal Name],

I, [Host’s Name], am delighted to invite you to the United States to celebrate my 50th wedding anniversary in Buffalo, NY, on February 21, 2050. You will be accommodated at my Buffalo, NY, residence from February 21 to February 28. Our plans include visiting Niagara Falls, Letchworth State Park, and Fort Niagara. I will cover the costs of your round-trip airfare, food, and medical insurance during your stay. Your presence would mean a lot to us.

[Host’s Signature]

[Host’s Contact Information]

Supporting Documentation

Accompany this letter with relevant documents such as event invitations, proof of roundtrip airfare, host’s identification or passport, accommodation proof, and a detailed travel itinerary.

Insights for B Visa Applicants

For B Visa applicants, remember:

• Dependent Visas: Spouses and children must apply separately for a B-2 visa.
• Employment Restrictions: B-1/B-2 visa holders are prohibited from working in the U.S.
• Visa Validity: A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport remains active; do not remove it from the expired passport.

Crafting an invitation letter with these elements can significantly enhance the credibility of your B1/B2 Visa application and facilitate your travel plans to the United States.

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How to write a letter of invitation for a U.S. travel visa

Including the right information may improve the odds that your friend, family member or colleague obtains a visa.

What's Inside

Many U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents have friends and family living abroad whom they may want to invite to the United States for a temporary visit. When this happens, people often forget that there are certain requirements a foreign national must meet to obtain a travel visa and gain lawful entry into the country. 

While not a requirement, a letter of invitation can be used as supporting documentation for a loved one’s B-1 or B-2 visa application to help them meet their application requirements. 

If you’ve been asked to prepare an invitation letter for a U.S. visa application and aren’t sure where to begin, this guide may help. We discuss what a letter of invitation is, describe how to prepare one and provide an invitation letter for visa example that you can use as you craft your own.

Invitation letter for U.S. visa application defined

An invitation letter is a document written by an individual formally inviting a family member or friend who’s a foreign national to the U.S. for a specific period of time. Invitation letters are often used as supporting documentation to the foreign national’s visa application when seeking temporary entry into the U.S.

The purpose of an invitation letter is to confirm the details of the applicant’s stay, including the reason for and dates of their travel. While an invitation letter isn’t a specific requirement for any visa application, including one with the application or bringing one to the visa application interview may be beneficial. 

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When to submit a letter of invitation

If a friend or relative plans to visit you on a temporary travel visa, they may ask you to provide them a letter of invitation to submit in support of their visa application. Below are two common visitor visas for which you may consider submitting an invitation letter:

Regardless of the precise scenario, if a friend, family member or colleague requests an invitation letter, providing one may help enhance their chances of a successful application.

The timing of the letter’s submission doesn’t matter since a letter of invitation isn’t required when filing the initial application for a visitor visa. You may include a letter of invitation as additional documentation in support of your application, or you may also choose to bring one with you to your interview.

Who can write an invitation letter for U.S. visa applications

An invitation letter should be written by the individual who will host the foreign national during their stay in the U.S. and who has personal ties to the invitee. 

Typically, the individual writing the invitation letter is either a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR). In many cases, the host is a friend or family member of the visa applicant. However, colleagues and business associates may also write letters.

How to write a letter of invitation for U.S. visa applications

Because providing an invitation letter is optional, there’s no specific list of information that one must contain. Nevertheless, below are some examples of information that’s often included: 

• The host’s name and contact information
• The host’s citizenship or immigration status
• The visa applicant’s name and contact information
• Details regarding the relationship between the host and the visa applicant
• Name and contact information for the visa applicant’s foreign employer
• The visa applicant’s expected travel dates
• Details regarding whether the host will provide accommodations or financial support to the invitee during their visit
• The purpose of the invitee’s trip and travel plans within the United States
• Any other details confirming the invitee’s ties to their home country and plans to return

In short, the goal of the invitation letter is to provide details confirming the foreign national’s relationship with the host residing within the U.S., the dates of travel and the purpose of their visit. The letter should also include details about the invitee’s ties to their home country to verify their intent to return at the conclusion of their trip. Examples of this include information about their home, job and family.

Lastly, the host should sign the invitation letter.

Sample letter of invitation for U.S. visa supporting documentation

Below is a sample letter of invitation. Keep in mind, there’s no specific format that an invitation letter must follow to be accepted as supporting documentation for a visa application. Because each letter is unique to the applicant’s situation, it may be beneficial to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer to determine how best to format your letter of invitation.

[Invitee full name]

[Invitee date of birth]

[Invitee foreign address]

Dear [full name of invitee],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally extend an invitation for you to visit me in the United States from [proposed arrival date] to [proposed departure date]. 

As my [relationship], we’ve known each other for [length of time], and I am eager to host you in my home, where I plan to provide you with [details of accommodations and financial support] for the duration of your stay. I understand and acknowledge the requirements of your U.S. visa and assure you that I’ll assist you in complying with them, including, but not limited to, ensuring your timely departure from the United States at the conclusion of your trip. 

Until then, I am looking forward to our plans to [travel plans during invitee’s visit]. 

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need any additional information or assistance during the visa application process. 

Sincerely, 

[Host signature]

[Host full legal name]

[Citizenship or immigration status]

[Host U.S. street address]

[Host city, state, zip code]

[Host phone number]

[Host email address]

Some also find it beneficial to accompany the letter with copies of items, such as:

• Evidence of roundtrip airfare reservations
• Photocopies of the host’s driver’s license, identification card or passport
• Event invitation or correspondence
• Detailed travel itinerary
• Proof of accommodations

When to speak with a lawyer

Going through the process of applying for a B-1 or B-2 visa for temporary entry into the U.S. can be difficult due to the many requirements in the application process. However, writing a detailed invitation letter with the above information may help make the application process easier for a visa applicant. 

If you have questions about how to write a thorough letter of invitation and what information to include, consider speaking with legal counsel. An experienced attorney can assess your situation and help you understand how you may help your invitee gain lawful entry into the U.S.

Bottom line

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Frequently asked questions

What are the requirements to invite someone to visit the usa, who needs an invitation letter, can i apply for a u.s. visa without an invitation letter, is a letter of invitation a required document for a b-1/b-2 travel visa application, what should the letter of invitation include.

Disclaimer: This article is provided as general information, not legal advice, and may not reflect the current laws in your state. It does not create an attorney-client relationship and is not a substitute for seeking legal counsel based on the facts of your circumstance. No reader should act based on this article without seeking legal advice from a lawyer licensed in their state.

This page includes links to third party websites. The inclusion of third party websites is not an endorsement of their services.

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How to Write a Letter of Invitation for a U.S. Travel Visa

An optional supporting document as part of your b-1/b-2 visa application, in this guide.

• What should the letter say?
• Sample letter of invitation
• Related Information

When applying for a B-1/B-2 travel visa , you have the option to include a letter of invitation from the relative or friend who will be hosting you during your stay in the United States. The letter of invitation is not a requirement for a travel visa, but including one could help strengthen your application .

In this guide we’ll go over what to include in the letter and provide a sample letter of invitation.

Interested in traveling to the U.S.? Our experienced team can help you prepare a strong application and avoid common mistakes that lead to visa denial. Learn more.

Start planning your trip today with Boundless

Learn how to increase your chance of travel visa approval, and get unlimited, live application support from start to finish.

What is a letter of invitation?

A letter of invitation is a signed letter from the family member or friend who you will be staying with during your trip to the United States. The purpose of the letter is to confirm that you will have a place to stay during your visit. It is preferable if your host is a U.S. citizen or green card holder.

The letter of invitation is optional and is not required as part of a B-1/B-2 visa application.

A letter of invitation for a B-1/B-2 travel visa should include the following information:

• Name and contact information for the host
• Host’s immigration status (for example, “U.S. citizen”)
• Relationship between the host and the visa applicant
• Visa applicant’s full name and address
• Purpose of the trip
• Exact dates of the trip
• Host’s signature

U.S. immigration can be complex and confusing. Boundless is here to help. Learn more.

Navi Laghari 3, Mm-ii, Panchkuian Road Delhi, Delhi, 110055 India

January 17, 2023

I am inviting you to come visit me in Washington to celebrate my 30th birthday on May 28, 2023. During your one-week trip, from May 25-31, you will stay with me at my house in Seattle. As your sister, I can’t wait to show you the city and take you to museums and go on hikes with you — I know how much you love being in nature. I will pay for your airfare to and from the U.S. and I will also cover your expenses while you are here.

I can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Love, [Host’s signature]

Sarika Laghari 9679 46th Ave SW Seattle, WA, 98136 USA Mobile: (206) 591-2342 U.S. Passport Number: 562908832

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How To Write The Best Invitation Letter For Any US Visa Application

Last Updated : 17 Apr 2024

Last Updated : 17 Apr 2024 at

Do you have friends or families coming to the U.S. who need to apply for a visa? Or do you have a partner living overseas who would like to come to visit you?

Many U.S. citizens and U.S. residents wish that their friends and family could visit them in the U.S. First; however, family members or friends must apply for a visitor visa. And a letter of invitation can assist in the visa application process.

Though the visa invitation letter does not guarantee visa issuance, it can be helpful in many circumstances. So let us look at how you can write a compelling letter of invitation that would assist your family members with their visa applications.

If you wish to visit your friends and family members living in another country and need a visa. Then you can apply for your tourist visa in a few easy steps and in a hassle-free way on AtlysBlack.

What Is A Visa Invitation Letter?

A visa invitation letter or sponsorship letter is written by a U.S. citizen or U.S. resident as a formal invite for their friends or family members to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). A visa invitation letter is not a mandatory visa requirement. However, this letter can help the U.S. embassy or consular officer better understand your relationship with the applicant and the purpose of the visit.

You must convey your relationship with the applicant truthfully to the consular officer in the invitation letter. Therefore, you will be able to accommodate them, and the applicant will return to their home country before their visa expires. In addition, you must clearly state if you will financially support the applicant during their entire stay in the U.S. and that you have the funds to do so.

The applicant must meet the visa requirements and go through the visa interview to be granted a visa. They must prove their strong ties with their home country, their intention of returning to their country, and only visiting the U.S. to spend time and see their family or friends. The applicant must convince the USCIS officer that they wish to stay in the U.S. temporarily and do not wish to take up residence in the country.

Disclaimer: A visa invitation letter does not guarantee an applicant's visa application.

Who Needs A Visa Invitation Letter?

A visa invitation letter can be helpful to a person who wishes to visit their friends or family and needs to apply for a tourist visa. Your friends or family living in the U.S. can supply you with an invitation letter to assist you in your visa application.

If someone sponsors your trip, they can provide additional documents and send you a visa sponsorship letter. Then, when applying for your visa at the U.S. Consulate, you can attach this letter with your application.

What Information Must I Add To A Visa Invitation Letter?

The visa invitation letter must have all the details of the host in the U.S. and the applicant in the foreign country. While writing the invitation letter, ensure that you are not missing any details and the letter is concise yet detailed.

The host in the U.S. must include the following details in their visa invitation letter:

Date of Birth

Full address

Contact information such as phone number and email address

Status in the U.S.

I.D., passport, or green card number

Photocopy of the I.D., passport, or green card number

The host must include the following details of the visa applicant in the invitation letter:

Applicant's relation to the host in the U.S.

The purpose of their trip

Applicant's length of stay in the U.S. with specific dates

Mentioning if the host will be responsible financially for the visa applicant while in the U.S.

Applicant's accommodation details

Host's signature and date

Other Required Documents With A Visa Invitation Letter

Ensure that your visa invitation is thorough and has all the sponsor's details. In addition, it would be beneficial to add supporting documents and a visa invitation letter. You can send the following documents to your friend or family member to print and attach to their B-2 visa application:

A copy of your passport, I.D., or green card

Proof of sufficient funds, such as your bank statements (if funded by the host in the U.S.)

You can also attach a Declaration of Financial Support or USCIS Form I-134

Proof of residence, such as your home address, a rental contract, etc.

Students can supply the applicant with their enrollment verification letter or a copy of your transcripts

The applicant must attach the other required documents for their visa application

How Do I Write A Visa Invitation Letter?

While writing, remember to add all the relevant information that would make the visa invitation letter compelling. The below-mentioned visa invitation letter is only for illustration purposes. You can use the sample to write your invitation letter with additional information that would assist the applicant in their visa application process.

While writing, you can address the U.S. Consul General, the U.S. Embassy in the applicant's country, the U.S. Consular Officer, or the person visiting the country. You must also check that all the spellings, dates, and information are correct.

Sample Visa Invitation Letter

[Your Full Name]

[Your Full Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

United States Consulate General [Address of the US Consulate, e.g., New Delhi, India]

Dear Sir/Madam,

RE: Invitation for [Visitor's Full Name] to visit the United States

I am writing this letter to invite my [relationship to the visitor, e.g., friend, brother, etc.], [Visitor's Full Name], who resides at [Visitor's Address]. I am a [Your Occupation] working at [Your Company Name], and I reside at [Your Address].

I would like to invite [Visitor's Full Name] to visit me in the United States for [length of the visit] to [describe the reason for visit such as attending a family event, touring, etc.]. During their stay in the United States, [Visitor's Full Name] will stay with me at my residence, and I will be responsible for all their accommodation expenses.

I kindly request you to grant [Visitor's Full Name] a visitor's visa for this period. I assure you that [Visitor's Full Name] will return to [Visitor's Home Country] before the expiration of their visa.

Please find attached all the necessary documentation for your reference.

Thank you for considering my request. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require any additional information.

Kind regards,

Note : Do not just use the same sample mentioned above; add all the necessary information to explain your and the applicant's situation best.

U.S. Visa Invitation Letter Template

Here is another sample invitation letter:

Visa sample

And folks, that is all about the US invitation letter!

Frequently Asked Questions

The visa invitation letter is not mandatory, and it does not guarantee that the applicant's visa application will be approved.

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Invitation Letter for Family/Friends Visiting You in the U.S.

You may have family members or friends who would like to visit you during your time studying at Wesleyan or for your graduation ceremony. (Congratulations!) To enter the U.S., they will most likely need to apply for a tourist visa, which is the B-1/B-2 type.

Guidance about the process for your family member/friend to apply for a tourist visa can be accessed on the U.S. Department of State website. Please note that the U.S. Department of State explicitly states on their website that an invitation letter is “not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa”:

“Note: Visa applicants must qualify on the basis of the applicant's residence and ties abroad, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa.”

As your family member/friend will be visiting you in the U.S. and you want an invitation letter for them, it is best that it be written by you . You may use this invitation letter template and fill in the highlighted sections with your own information.

We also encourage you to provide your family member/friend your proof of enrollment as applicable. You can do this by accessing your academic history and printing your enrollment verification via WesPortal or requesting a Certification of Enrollment or transcript from the Registrar’s Office.

Please remind your family members and friends to review the visa application process at the U.S. embassy/consulate in their passport country well in advance of the date they wish to visit you and contact their local consular office if they have questions.

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Sample Invitation Letter for U.S. Visa

• Invitation Letter Template
• Invitation Letter for Visa Template

An Invitation Letter for a U.S. Visa is a supplemental statement completed by the sponsor of a U.S. visa in support of the visa application prepared by their relative, partner, or friend. A proper invitation will ease the process of applying for a visa and boost the chances of the applicant entering the country for a special event or a vacation period. You can find a Sample Invitation Letter for a U.S. Visa through the link below .

Here is how you compose a U.S. Visa Invitation Letter:

• Ask the visa applicant what information you should provide in the letter - for instance, this statement can be addressed to your friend or relative or you will have to write to the embassy or consulate trying to convince them to let the applicant visit the country.
• Greet the recipient and introduce yourself. Explain your relationship with the applicant - you may be their family member or a long-time friend.
• Indicate the reason for drafting a letter - you want to invite the individual to spend their vacation or visit your private event in the U.S. Note that the reason for their trip must be temporary and have a strict time frame - state the proposed dates of travel.
• Confirm your willingness to pay for all expenses related to the applicant's stay in the U.S. Even if you are sure they can handle all financial issues, it is important to show your full material support and attach bank statements to demonstrate your financial stability and sufficient funds to cover the applicant's stay.
• Thank the recipient of the letter for their time and consideration of the visa application and supplemental documentation. Add your contact information so that the consular officer may get in touch with you to verify certain details and sign the letter.

Still looking for a particular letter? Take a look at the related templates below:

• Invitation Letter for U.S. Visa ;
• Invitation Letter for Business Visa ;
• Wedding Invitation Letter for Visitor Visa .

Download Sample Invitation Letter for U.S. Visa

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Surefire Ways to Write Letter of Invitation for US Visa Application with Real Samples

HOW TO WRITE A LETTER OF INVITATION FOR US VISA

By Deb Pati last updated on October 16, 2020

There was a time, a simpler time, when I used to think that a letter of invitation wouldn’t change a thing. Long before I got that wanderlust that singers sing about and bloggers blog about, and needed to apply for visas.

Now, after having travelled and lived in many countries, and many conversations with people with powerless passports like me, I have come to the understanding that they make a difference.

And if you are traveling to the USA, a letter of invitation for US visa is no doubt helpful and can often add a lot of weight to your application. That being said, a letter of invitation, by itself doesn’t guarantee the issuance of a visa to the applicant.

You still need to fulfill, the US visa requirements such as proof of funds and strong ties to your home country.

This article refers to a US visitor visa invitation letter only. The template can be used for a B1/B2 visa or even a student visa, but not for a US business visa.

Table of Contents

When Do I Need to Provide a US Visa Letter of Invitation?

If you are a US citizen or legal resident, chances are that you want your friend, parents, partner etc. to visit you in the United States. Now if this said person needs a visa to visit the USA, you can help them by writing a letter of invitation for US visa.

You need to write this letter before they submit their visa application. When the applicant submits the documents at the U.S. consulate or Visa Application Center, this letter can go along with the application.

Sample Invitation Letters for US Visa for Tourism

The thing is, there are many ways to write a letter of invitation for US visa. Depending on the relation between the host and guest.

The thing to remember is that the host/sponsor must address a letter to the US consular officer and another one to the US visa applicant.

Here are some examples of invitation letters for visa, that are pretty common.

1. Sample US Visa Invitation Letter for Parents

Writing a US visa invitation letter for parents is probably the easiest and safest. Here is an actual letter written by a friend to invite his parents to the USA.

2. Example of Invitation Letter for Friend

An invitation letter for US visitor visa for friend can be written like this.

[Date] [Host’s name ex- Bob Vance] Address: Phone number: Passport number: Email: To: [Friend’s name] [Friend’s passport number] [Friend’s address] Dear [Friend’s name e.g. Vladimir], So happy to know that you finally decided on the trip to the USA. It would be an honor to invite you to come and host you during your trip from [Date range]. During this time we can visit the statue of liberty, and other famous landmarks in New York. And we can plan to go for some road trips in the tri-state area. I would also like to add that, I will be responsible for your entire USA tour expenses, including the round trip flights, housing, food, and any other personal expenses. I am sending a copy of my passport and rental lease with this letter, to help you with your US tourist visa application. Love, [Signature] Bob Vance

3. Sample Letter to Consulate for Visitor Visa

Your Visa Invitation letter to the United States Consul should look like this.

15/02/2020 Consulate of the United States of America, Bogota, Colombia Dear consular officer, Good day! My name is Christine Bundy. I am a citizen of the United States and I live in 12, Mountain Drive, Portland, OR-97206. I have been working as a teacher at Mountain View High school in Portland for the last five years. I am writing this letter to request you to grant a B-2 tourist visa to my friend Daniela Romero, a citizen of Colombia with passport number AL123456. I have known her for two years. I met her when I was living in Colombia and she took it upon herself to introduce me to her culture, and that’s how we became friends. Daniela will be visiting me in Portland from 08/02/2020 to 11/06/2020, for a period of almost three months. During her stay in the United States, she will stay with me at my home at the address stated above. Daniela will be presenting my letter to you, along with a copy of my driving license as well as other proof. Thank you for your kind consideration. Respectfully yours, Christine Bundy, 12, Mountain Drive, Portland, OR-97206, 203-992-1098 [email protected]

How to Write US Visa Letter of Invitation?

It might seem like writing in ink gives your letter a more personal touch. You are not entirely wrong. It does. But, if we have learnt anything from the boomers and the generations that followed before computers became the norm, it is that handwritings are not often legible. No matter what your mom told you.

So, I would ask you to go ahead and simply type the letter on a word doc (or Hemingway app if you are feeling adventurous), sign it and scan it.

And while writing the letter of invitation for US visa, you must be very very careful about all these things. Under no circumstances should the consular officer get a hunch that it is fake, even if it is not.

A good US Visa invitation letter has three parts usually. It should not be more than one page and should not have any unnecessary information.

A letter of invitation for US Visa should be personal. So, no need to make it sound as if it was written by an attorney.

1. Details of the Host

• Host’s full name, address, email, phone number, and date of birth
• Host’s occupation
• The legal status of the host in the USA and a photocopy of a document proving that. Example- Green card, passport, etc.
• Affidavit of support

2. Details of the Guest

• Guest’s full name, address, phone number, email, and date of birth
• The relationship between guest and host – friend, sister, son, etc.

3. Information about the Trip

• Purpose and duration of the trip
• Details of accommodation arrangments and expenses

Is Letter of Invitation Mandatory for a US Visa?

No it is not. But see, applying for a U.S. visa can often be a not-so-pretty experience, with all the documents and the strict approach that USCIS has adopted.

A US visa invitation letter can smooth the entire process. This letter also demonstrates that as a citizen or legal resident, you, are willing and able to host them in your home and financially support them. And that the probabilities of them overstaying is lower.

Additional Information When Writing a Letter Of invitation To USA

Yes, the invitation letter that you have written has turned out to be the coolest thing you have done since the last Tik Tok challenge. But if you are a little thoughtful and really want to go the extra mile, how about these documents as well?

• Proof of Identity: A scanned copy of the host’s ID or valid passport.
• Proof of accommodation: proof you, the host has a home. Rental agreement or proof of ownership will do the trick.
• Evidence of funds: Bank statements and credit card statements etc. if you will be financially supporting that person.
• An Affidavit of Support: Only in case the host will be financially supporting the guest, then he/she can submit an affidavit of support for the application. You can fill in the  USCIS Form I-134  for this.

Would I Be Liable for my Guest’s Overstay in USA?

Now, that’s a million dollar question. Well, not million dollars! Duh!

So you sent the invitation letter for a friend or cousin. And he/she got a visitor visa to come to the US. You also sent her an affidavit of support in order to back up the invitation.

Now that person has fallen in love with the American dream, and doesn’t want to move his/her ass out of the United States.

Now you have one of these questions.

• Would you be legally responsible to turn her in? Call ICE?
• Would you need to financially support her since you mentioned that in the letter?
• How about just peace out and ignore him/her?

I am no attorney, but I will tell you this. What your “friend” does once he/she sets foot in the USA, that is not really your problem. The ICE or the FBI or the police have bigger issues to worry about.

Once the visa was issued by the consulate, you won’t have to worry about this stuff.

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About Deb Pati

Deb Pati is the founder of The Visa Project. He has lived and traveled in many countries. When he is not travelling, he is either working or writing.

Reader Interactions

August 26, 2021 at 10:37 am

I do not know when this blog was published, I am so grateful that I found it today. Thank you for this, it clarifies so much.

August 27, 2021 at 8:40 am

Thank you Tarryn.

April 14, 2023 at 1:53 am

its informative, thanks bro

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Visit the U.S.

Generally, if you want to visit ( and not live in ) the United States you must first obtain a visitor visa . Travelers from certain countries may be exempt from this requirement. For more information, please see the U.S. Department of State website .

If you want to travel to the United States for reasons other than business or pleasure, you must apply for a visa in the appropriate category. This includes if you want to study, work as a crew member or journalist, etc. You can get help determining which visa you need by using the Explore My Options page.

Extending Your Visit

If Customs and Border Protection (CBP)  authorizes your admission to the United States at the designated port of entry, you will receive a stamped Form I-94, Record of Arrival-Departure . If you wish to stay beyond the time indicated on the Form I-94, you may apply for an extension by filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status , with USCIS.

If You Lose Form I-94

You may apply for a replacement Form I-94 by filing a Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record .