Key Facts You Should Know
Tip from the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link:
When writing a visa invitation letter, the sponsor must provide complete and truthful information about their relationship with the visitor. The letter should clearly explain the purpose of the visit, confirm the sponsor’s ability to host the visitor, and include an assurance that the visitor will return to their home country before the visa expires. If the sponsor plans to provide financial support during the trip, they must also include proof of sufficient funds.
If a relative or friend has asked you to write an invitation letter to support their U.S. tourist visa application, you’re already helping strengthen their case. While an invitation letter is not required for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa, it can serve as valuable supporting documentation that demonstrates the applicant’s credibility and intent.
Below, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link explain how to write an effective invitation letter, what information to include, and provide real examples to help you get started. Understanding the impact of this letter can make a meaningful difference in the visa approval process.
At Green Card Link, our immigration attorneys simplify the entire U.S. visa process with expert legal guidance and user-friendly technology designed to make your application smooth and stress-free.
What Is an Invitation Letter for a U.S. Visa?
An invitation letter for a U.S. visa is a personal letter written by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident inviting a foreign national to visit the United States. The letter’s main purposes are to:
- Explain the reason for the visitor’s trip.
- Describe the relationship between the inviter (host) and the visitor.
- Provide details about the duration, itinerary, and purpose of the visit.
- Clarify whether the host will offer financial, lodging, or moral support during the stay.
Important Note:
For B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourist) visas, the U.S. Department of State emphasizes that the applicant must independently qualify based on their strong ties to their home country—not solely on assurances from U.S. sponsors. While an invitation letter or Affidavit of Support can be presented during the visa interview, they are not deciding factors in visa issuance.
How to Invite Someone to Visit the United States
To invite someone to the U.S., you must write a visa invitation letter, addressed either to the consular officer or directly to the visitor. The letter should include key details such as your full name and contact information, your relationship with the guest, the purpose and duration of the visit, and your ability or willingness to provide financial or housing support.
Many applicants wonder whether U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can detect unauthorized employment or other violations. If you’re unsure how your immigration history might affect your case, consult the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link for confidential guidance.
What to Include in a Visa Invitation Letter
A well-written invitation letter can strengthen a visitor’s B-2 visa application by showing the U.S. consulate that the trip is legitimate and temporary. The host—usually a U.S. citizen or green card holder—should clearly state their willingness to accommodate the visitor and confirm that the visit will comply with all visa requirements.
Although an invitation letter does not guarantee visa approval, it helps provide context and reassurance that the traveler’s activities in the U.S. are lawful and consistent with their visa category.
Essential Details to Include:
- Host Information:
The host must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. They may be a family member, friend, fiancé(e), or significant other of the visitor. - Relationship:
Specify how you know the visitor and the nature of your relationship. - Date of Writing:
Include the date the letter is drafted. - Visitor’s Passport Number:
If the letter is addressed to the U.S. consulate, include the visitor’s passport number for identification purposes. - Host’s Full Details:
Provide your complete name, U.S. address, and contact information. - Accommodation Information:
Confirm that you have adequate space and are willing to host the visitor during their stay. - Travel Dates:
Mention the intended arrival and departure dates clearly. - Financial Responsibility:
State whether you will cover the visitor’s travel, lodging, or daily expenses and provide proof of financial capability if applicable. - Assurance Against Overstay:
Because U.S. immigration authorities are particularly concerned about visitors overstaying their visas, it’s important to include the specific entry and departure dates and reaffirm that the guest intends to return home. - Tone and Style:
If the letter is directed to the consular officer, maintain a professional and respectful tone. If it’s written directly to your guest, you can adopt a friendlier, more conversational style.
Increase Your Green Card Approval Chances with Green Card Link’s Trusted Guidance
An invitation letter is just one part of the overall U.S. visa application process. To improve your chances of approval, it’s essential to meet all other visa requirements and provide accurate, well-prepared documentation. At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys simplify the process, helping you navigate complex procedures with confidence and ease.
Book a consultation today to take the first step toward your successful visa or green card application.
Sample Invitation Letter for a Visitor Visa
Before including an invitation letter in your visa application, it’s highly recommended to have it reviewed by a qualified immigration attorney at Green Card Link. While the letter should remain personal and genuine, avoid making it overly formal—it should sound natural and heartfelt.
Below is a sample invitation letter demonstrating the key elements every applicant should include. This version is written to the guest and uses a friendly, conversational tone suitable for visitor visa applications.
Sample Invitation Letter for a U.S. Visitor Visa Application
[Date]
U.S. Consulate General
[Consulate Address]
Dear Consular Officer,
[Visitor’s Name] – Passport Number [Number] – [Visitor’s Birth Date]
My name is [Host’s Name], and I live at [Host’s Address], [City, State, ZIP]. I am writing to support the visa application of my [relationship], [Visitor’s Name], who is a citizen of [Country] and resides at [Visitor’s Address].
I am inviting [Visitor’s Name] to visit me in [City, State] from [Date] to [Date] so that we can spend time together and celebrate [specific reason, e.g., a family event or milestone]. I am employed as a [profession], and I will cover all accommodation and living expenses during their stay.
[Visitor’s Name] will present this letter along with documentation proving their employment and residence in [Country], demonstrating clear intent to return after the visit.
Thank you for your time and consideration of this visa application.
Sincerely,
[Host’s Name]
[Host’s Address]
[Host’s Contact Number]
[Host’s Signature]
Additional Supporting Documents
While not mandatory, it can be helpful to include additional materials such as:
- A copy of the host’s passport or identification
- Proof of residence (e.g., lease agreement or utility bill)
- A detailed travel itinerary
- Proof of relationship or family connection
After preparing the invitation letter, the applicant should submit it along with Form I-134 during the visa appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
Simplify the Immigration Process with Green Card Link
The U.S. immigration process can feel overwhelming, but Green Card Link and its experienced immigration attorneys make it simple. Whether you’re preparing a family-based petition, visa application, or green card request, we handle the details so you can focus on your goals.
Get started today and let Green Card Link guide you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invitation Letters
When Is an Invitation Letter Required?
Invitation letters are often used by individuals applying for temporary U.S. visas such as B-1 or B-2 visitor visas. The letter provides context for the visit and helps demonstrate the applicant’s intent to return home. It should be typed for clarity but can also be handwritten if necessary.
Where Do I Submit the Invitation Letter?
Once written by the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident host, the invitation letter should be submitted by the visa applicant at their consular or embassy appointment, along with Form I-134 and other supporting documents.
What Are the Requirements for a Visa Invitation Letter?
While not required by law, a letter of invitation is highly recommended. It should include:
- The host’s full name, address, and immigration status in the U.S.
- The visitor’s full name, relationship to the host, and purpose of the trip
- Details about accommodation and duration of stay
To strengthen the application, the host may include proof of residence or employment. Accuracy is vital—any discrepancies between the letter and the applicant’s statements could delay processing.
Does an Invitation Letter Need to Be Notarized?
No. An invitation letter for a U.S. visa does not need to be notarized. It serves as supporting evidence for the consulate’s review but is not an official requirement for visitor visa applications.
How Green Card Link Can Help You
The immigration process demands precision and attention to detail. With over a decade of professional experience, immigration attorneys at Green Card Link have successfully guided countless clients through visa and green card applications. From drafting personalized invitation letters to preparing complete application packages, our team ensures that your case is handled with care, strategy, and professionalism.
Schedule a consultation today to get expert help with your U.S. visa or green card process.