If you’re living in the United States as a citizen, permanent resident, or legal immigrant, there may come a time when you wish to invite your family members, including your parents, to visit you. It’s for a family celebration, a graduation ceremony, a wedding, or just a vacation, having your loved ones visit you in the US can be a joyful experience. But before they can pack their bags, they’ll need to apply for a visitor visa – specifically, the B-2 Tourist Visa. One of the key supporting documents in their visa application is the invitation letter for US visa.
We will walk you through everything you need to know about writing an effective and simple US visa invitation letter, especially when it’s for your parents or family members. We will also provide a sample invitation letter for US visa, explain how to write an invitation letter for US visa, and include multiple examples to make the process easier for you.
What Is an Invitation Letter for US Visa?
An invitation letter for US visa is a formal letter written by a US resident or citizen who invites a foreign national (often a family member) to visit the United States. This letter is not a legal requirement by the US Embassy, but it can significantly support the visitor’s visa application by showing the purpose of the visit and ensuring the consular officer that the trip is genuine and temporary.
Why Is the Invitation Letter Important?
While an invitation letter does not guarantee visa approval, it provides:
- A valid reason for the visit.
- Information about the relationship between the host and the visitor.
- Details about who will cover the expenses during the trip.
- Assurance that the visitor will return to their home country after the visit.
Who Can Write an Invitation Letter for US Visa?
Anyone legally residing in the United States whether a US citizen, green card holder, or temporary visa holder (like H1B, L1, or F1 students) can write an invitation letter for US visa.
If you’re planning to invite your parents, siblings, relatives, or friends, you can write a family invitation letter for US visa stating the details and purpose of their trip.
When Should You Write the Letter?
Ideally, the invitation letter should be written before the visa interview appointment. The visitor will need to submit this letter along with other supporting documents during the visa application process.
Documents to Include with the Invitation Letter
Along with the invitation letter for US visa, it’s helpful to attach:
- A copy of your passport (if you’re a citizen) or visa/green card (if you’re a resident).
- Proof of address in the US (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement).
- Recent bank statements, if you’re sponsoring the trip.
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-134) if applicable.
How to Write an Invitation Letter for US Visa?
If you’re wondering how to write an invitation letter for US visa, here’s a simple format to follow:
1. Sender’s (Host’s) Information
Include your full name, status in the US (citizen, green card holder, student, etc.), address, phone number, and email.
2. Recipient’s (Visitor’s) Information
Mention the full name, date of birth, passport number, and address of the person you’re inviting.
3. Purpose of Visit
Explain the reason for the visit—vacation, attending graduation, spending time with grandchildren, etc.
4. Relationship
Clearly state how you are related to the person (e.g., mother, father, uncle, friend).
5. Trip Details
Mention the intended travel dates, duration of stay, and who will bear the cost of the trip.
6. Closing Statement
Express your willingness to support the visa process and answer any questions from the consulate.
Sample Invitation Letter for US Visa (For Parents)
Sample of invitation letter for US visa for parents that you can customize based on your situation:
[Your Full Name]
[Your Street Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
USA
Email: [Your Email Address]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Date: [Insert Date]
To
The Consulate Officer,
[Embassy/Consulate Name]
[City], [Country]
Subject: Invitation Letter for US Visa for Parents
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing this letter to invite my parents, [Father’s Full Name] and [Mother’s Full Name], residing at [Parent’s Home Address in India], to visit me in the United States for a duration of [number of months, e.g., 6 months], from [start date] to [end date].
The purpose of their visit is to spend time with me and my family and to explore the United States as tourists. I am currently working as a [Your Job Title] at [Company Name] in [City, State]. I am a [US citizen/permanent resident/visa holder – specify your status].
I will ensure that they return to India before their authorized stay ends. I will take full responsibility for their accommodation, travel expenses within the United States, and medical insurance during their stay. Attached are copies of my visa, employment verification, and bank statements for your reference.
Please feel free to contact me if you need any more information. I sincerely request you to consider their visa application favorably.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Signature (if submitting a hard copy)]
Family Invitation Letter for US Visa (General Sample)
You can also use this template if you’re inviting siblings, cousins, or other relatives:
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
Date: [Insert Date]
To
The Visa Officer,
US Embassy or Consulate
[City, Country]
Subject: Family Invitation Letter for US Visa
Dear Visa Officer,
I am writing to invite my [relationship, e.g., sister], [Full Name of Invitee], residing at [Invitee’s Address], to visit me in the United States for [mention duration]. The purpose of the visit is to spend time together as a family and to tour various parts of the country.
I am a lawful [citizen/green card holder/visa holder] residing at [your address]. I will provide full financial support during [his/her] stay in the US, including accommodation, food, travel, and insurance.
Please consider [his/her] visa application favorably. I have enclosed a copy of my passport, proof of residence, and employment verification for your review.
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Signature]
Sample of Invitation Letter for US Visa (For Graduation Ceremony)
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]
Date: [Insert Date]
To
The Visa Officer
US Embassy
[City, Country]
Subject: Invitation to Attend Graduation Ceremony in the US
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing this letter to invite my parents, [Father’s Name] and [Mother’s Name], to visit me in the United States to attend my graduation ceremony at [University Name], which will take place on [Date].
I am currently on an F1 Student Visa pursuing a degree in [Your Program]. I would be honored to have my parents attend this important milestone in my life. I will cover all their expenses including travel, accommodation, and medical insurance during their visit.
Please consider their application favorably.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Signature]
Example of Invitation Letter for US Visa for a Friend
Even if you’re inviting a non-family member, like a friend, here’s a valid example of invitation letter for US visa:
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Email: [Email Address]
Phone: [Phone Number]
Date: [Insert Date]
To
The US Visa Officer
US Consulate
[City, Country]
Subject: Visitor Visa Invitation for Friend
Dear Sir/Madam,
I would like to invite my friend, [Friend’s Full Name], residing at [Friend’s Address], to visit me in the United States for a short vacation from [start date] to [end date]. The purpose of the visit is tourism and to spend time with me.
I am currently employed as a [Your Position] with [Company Name] and legally reside in the United States on a [mention status: citizen/visa]. I will ensure that my friend returns to [his/her] home country before the end of the authorized visit.
Thank you for considering this application.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
[Signature]
Tips for Writing a Strong Invitation Letter
Here are some important tips to make your invitation letter for US visa sample stand out:
- Be Clear and Concise: Keep the language simple and easy to understand.
- Use Formal Tone: Use respectful language suitable for immigration purposes.
- Mention All Key Details: Duration, purpose, your status in the US, relationship, expenses.
- Provide Supporting Documents: Attach copies of relevant ID and financial documents.
- Avoid Overpromising: Don’t guarantee visa approval-just offer genuine support.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using informal or vague language.
- Forgetting to include your relationship with the invitee.
- Not mentioning the duration of stay or trip purpose.
- Failing to attach proof of your legal status in the US.
- Overwriting or adding emotional appeals-stay professional.
Do You Need a Notarized Invitation Letter?
Not necessarily. Notarized letter can add credibility but is not a requirement by the US Embassy. In most cases, a signed copy is sufficient, especially if accompanied by other supporting documents.
Do I Need to Fill Form I-134 Along with Invitation Letter?
If you’re sponsoring your family’s trip financially, it’s recommended to submit Form I-134 (Affidavit of Support) along with the invitation letter for US visa. This gives the visa officer assurance that the invitee won’t become a financial burden on the US government.
Writing a simple US visa invitation letter might seem intimidating at first, but with the right format and details, it’s quite straightforward. Whether you’re inviting your parents, siblings, or friends, your letter should be honest, well-written, and supported with necessary documents.
FAQs
What is an invitation letter for US visa?
An invitation letter for US visa is a formal document written by someone residing in the United States inviting a foreign national (typically a relative or friend) to visit. This letter supports the visitor’s B-2 tourist visa application by stating the purpose of the visit, duration, and who will bear the expenses.
Is an invitation letter required for a US tourist visa?
No, it is not mandatory, but highly recommended. A well-written invitation letter for US visa can strengthen the applicant’s case by showing the visit’s purpose is genuine and temporary.
Who can write an invitation letter for US visa?
Any US citizen, green card holder, or legal visa holder (such as H1B, F1, L1) can write an invitation letter for family or friends visiting the USA, provided they include proper details and supporting documents.
What should be included in an invitation letter for US visa?
Good invitation letter for US visa must include:
- Full name and contact of the inviter
- Immigration status of the inviter
- Full name and details of the invitee
- Purpose and duration of the visit
- Relationship between inviter and invitee
- Who will fund the trip
- Address and signature
Can I send a sample invitation letter for US visa by email?
Yes, an invitation letter can be sent via email or printed hard copy. Signed, scanned version is acceptable. There is no need for original paper mail unless specifically requested by the embassy.
Do I need to notarize the invitation letter for US visa?
It is not required to notarize the invitation letter, but doing so may add credibility in some cases. Properly signed letter along with supporting documents is enough.
Do I need to submit any documents with the invitation letter?
Yes, attach copies of:
- Your passport or visa
- Proof of address in the US
- Bank statements (if you’re financially sponsoring)
- Optional: Affidavit of Support (Form I-134)
How do I write an invitation letter for US visa for parents?
Write a simple invitation letter including your parents’ names, passport details, your immigration status, reason for their visit (e.g., attending graduation, spending time with grandchildren), duration, and who will bear expenses. Be clear, respectful, and include necessary documentation.
Can I get a sample invitation letter for US visa for parents?
Yes, many websites and immigration resources offer a sample invitation letter for US visa for parents. You can also find customized templates in articles or visa forums.
What is a family invitation letter for US visa?
A family invitation letter for US visa is written to invite family members such as parents, siblings, or cousins – to visit the US. It includes the relationship, duration of stay, and who is covering expenses.
How long should the invitation letter for US visa be?
It should be one page, ideally 250–400 words, and to the point. Include all relevant details but avoid unnecessary information.
