Sample Invitation Letter For Visitor Visa For Parents Visiting USA

If you need a sample invitation letter for a visitor visa, to assist parents when applying for a US visitor visa (B-2 visa) or tourist visa to visit you in the United States this article will provide you with one.

Applying for a visitor visa can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to gathering the right documentation. One of the most requested documents by foreign consulates and embassies is the invitation letter.

Whether you’re inviting your parents, relatives, or friends to visit, or helping visitors who are applying for a visa to the U.S., a clear and well-structured invitation can significantly strengthen the visa application.

This guide will help you understand what an invitation letter is, why it matters, and provide a sample invitation letter for a visitor visa that you can customize to your situation.

What Is An Invitation Letter For A Visitor Visa?

An invitation letter is a written request from a U.S. resident or citizen inviting someone abroad to visit them, requesting the consulate to grant a tourist visa for the visit.

While it is not always mandatory, consulates, such as the United States Consul General, often advise visa applicants to include it as part of their supporting documentation.

The letter demonstrates the relationship between the host and the person being invited (the individual for whom the visa is being requested).

It provides key details about the trip, including the arrival date, departure date, and financial support arrangements.

Why Is An Invitation Letter Important?

Although the decision to issue a B-1/B-2 visa depends on multiple factors, an invitation letter along with essential documents can help:

• Establish the relationship between the applicant and the host.
• Show proof of ties abroad, as this is important for determining whether the applicant will return to their home country.
• Provide the consulate with as much documentation as possible to support the visa request.
• Demonstrate the host’s willingness to support the visitor, if applicable, financially.

However, it is important to note that providing an invitation letter or even an Affidavit of Support does not guarantee visa approval.

The consular officer will approve or deny the visa based on whether the applicant qualifies according to their ties abroad and the applicant’s residence outside the U.S.

The decision to deny a visa is not influenced by support letters, but rather by the applicant’s ability to demonstrate strong connections to their home country and meet all eligibility requirements.

Adding the correct details and documents, like a bank statement, a photocopy of a passport, or an assistantship letter (for students inviting family), can make the request stronger.

Key Details To Include In An Invitation Letter

Every invitation letter should include the following:

• Host’s details: Full name, address, email, phone number, immigration status in the U.S.
• Visitor’s details: Full name, date of birth, passport number, applicant’s residence
• Purpose of visit: Family gathering, graduation, commencement ceremony, tourism, etc
  If the visit is for a graduation or academic event, specify the student’s major in the letter to clarify their educational background and the purpose of the visit
• Trip details: Planned arrival date, departure date, and length of stay
• Relationship: Clearly explain how you are related to the applicant
• Financial responsibility: Who will cover travel and living expenses
• Assurances: That the visitor will not overstay their visa and will return home

Sample Invitation Letter For Visitor Visa For Parents Visiting USA

[Your Full Name]
[Your Address in the U.S.]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address] | [Phone Number]

[Date]

Dear Honorable Consul,

I am writing to invite my parents, [Father’s Full Name, Date of Birth, Passport Number] and [Mother’s Full Name, Date of Birth, Passport Number], to visit me in the United States for [reason – e.g., family reunion, graduation, birth of a child, or tourism]. Their planned arrival date is [Month, Day, Year], and their departure date will be [Month, Day, Year]. Their stay will not exceed the expiration of their authorized period in the U.S.

During their stay, my parents will reside with me at my home in [City, State]. I will take full responsibility for their living expenses, medical insurance, and travel within the U.S. Attached, please find my bank statement, a copy of my passport and visa, and proof of residence as supporting documentation.

My parents will return to their home in [Country] after their visit, as they have strong ties abroad, including family members and property, and have demonstrated prior compliance with visa regulations.

We respectfully request your kind consideration in granting them visitor visas to the United States. Your support in this matter will be greatly appreciated.

Very truly yours,
[Signature]
[Your Printed Name]

Supporting Documentation To Attach

To strengthen the application, you may include:

• A bank statement (to prove funds)
• Proof of current enrollment or employment
• Copy of your passport and visa
• Proof of address (utility bill or lease agreement)
• Any university letters (for graduation invitations)
• An affidavit of support if you are taking financial responsibility

Tips For Writing An Effective Invitation Letter

Consider the following suggestions when writing your invitation letter:

• Always include accurate details, like full names, passport numbers, and addresses
• Be honest about your individual situation; avoid exaggeration
• Attach as much documentation as possible
• If your visitor has limited English ability, consider providing supporting documents or explanations, as language skills may influence the visa interview process
• Use polite and formal language: phrases like “dear honorable consul”, “kind consideration”, and “very truly yours” are common
• Ensure your visitor has sufficient ties abroad (job, property, family) to demonstrate an intent to return
• Remember, these are suggestions to help strengthen your application, not guarantees of approval

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Visitors To The USA

When inviting your parents, or any family members or friends, to the United States, it’s strongly recommended that they have a travel medical insurance plan. Healthcare in the U.S. can be costly, and visitor visas do not provide health coverage.

A single emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, and without travel health insurance, your guests may face unexpected medical expenses.

Purchasing travel insurance for visitors to the USA ensures they have access to quality medical care, coverage for accidents or illness, and even emergency medical evacuation if required.

For peace of mind, consider arranging insurance coverage before their arrival date, as proof of financial preparedness can also strengthen a visa application.

Final Note

A sample invitation letter for a visitor visa is not a guarantee of approval; the information provided here is advice intended to guide you through the process. Always remember that the consulate considers multiple factors, like ties, financial stability, and intent to return, when deciding.

Before submission, check the official web page of the respective department or embassy online to ensure all requirements are met. Each situation is unique, so adapt the letter accordingly.

Pro Tip: Always send a copy of your invitation letter to your family members or friends so they can present it during their visa interview.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an invitation letter mandatory for a visitor visa?

No, but it is strongly recommended because it provides evidence of the relationship and strengthens the application.

Who can write an invitation letter?

A U.S. citizen, green card holder, or a non-immigrant with valid status (such as a student or worker) can invite family members or friends.

Do I need to notarize the invitation letter?

Most embassies do not require notarization, but some may suggest it. Always check online with the foreign consulate handling the application.

Can students invite their parents to a graduation ceremony?

Yes. Students can provide a university letter, proof of current enrollment, and an assistantship letter if needed.

What if the host cannot financially support the visitor?

In this case, the visitor can include their own funds and financial evidence. The host’s assurances are helpful but not the only factor in determining visa approval.