How to Write a Letter of Invitation and Sample of Invitation Letter for a Visa to the UK
Understanding a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visitor Visa
A letter of invitation sometimes called a sponsorship letter or sponsor letter, is a document written by a UK-based individual to support the visitor visa application of a friend, family member, or partner.
This letter helps demonstrate that the visitor has ties to the UK and that the host can support or accommodate them during their stay.
What Should a Letter of Invitation Contain?
The primary purpose of this letter is to formally invite the visitor to stay in your home. To provide a comprehensive overview, the letter should include details about the host, the visitor, and the specifics of the visit.
Attaching supporting documents to validate the information in the invitation letter is also essential.
Key Elements to Include:
Host's Details
- Full name
- Full address
- Telephone number
- Occupation
- Status in the UK
- Relationship to the visitor
Visitor's Details
- Full name
- Travel itinerary
- Relationship to the host
Trip Details
- Length of stay
- Start and end dates
- Purpose of visit
- Accommodation details
- Information on living, travel, and other expenses
Moreover, you should outline who will cover the expenses during the visit. This might include whether the host will fully support the visitor, if costs will be shared, or if the visitor will cover their expenses.
If specific dates haven’t been set, you can provide a general timeframe. For instance, you might state, “I am inviting [visitor’s name] to stay with me for two weeks in August,” or “The visit will last approximately eight days in November or December.”
If you plan to stay elsewhere during the visit, include those details too, such as “We will also spend three nights at [location’s address] from [start date] to [end date].”
When mentioning the visit’s purpose, be specific. It could be sightseeing, spending time with family, or attending a particular event.
Addressing the Letter of Invitation
Although the letter’s purpose is to invite someone to stay, it should be addressed to the Entry Clearance Officer (ECO) or UK consular officer, not the visitor. Therefore, starting the letter with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To whom it may concern” is appropriate.Â
Supporting Documents
To enhance the credibility of the invitation letter, include copies of relevant documents. These might include:
- A scan of your UK passport
- Proof of your UK status (e.g., biometric residence permit)
- Proof of accommodation (e.g., tenancy agreement)
- Financial proof (e.g., bank statements)
- Copies of travel, accommodation, or activity plans
- Any other document supporting the visitor’s visa application
There are no mandatory documents, but the more you provide, the stronger the application.
Conclusion
Applying for a UK visitor visa from is a complex process that requires thorough preparation and planning. Home Office refusal rates for visitor visas remain high.
These tips on preparing an invitation letter and the sample letter are from a former visa officer’s perspective and provide all the necessary information and tips to enhance your chances of a successful application.
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