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
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.
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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.
Note:
The letter of invitation is optional and is not required as part of a B-1/B-2 visa application.
What Should the Letter Say?
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
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Sample Letter of Invitation
Navi Laghari
3, Mm-ii, Panchkuian Road
Delhi, Delhi, 110055
India
January 17, 2023
Dear Navi,
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