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How to Write a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa

If you wish to act as a sponsor for a visitor to the UK, you may have to write a letter of invitation.

For more information about UK visitor visas and the requirements when applying for one, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our expert immigration lawyers on 0333 305 9375 , or contact us online .

uk visa application letter of invitation

What is a Letter of Invitation?

A letter of invitation (also known as a sponsorship letter or sponsor letter) is a letter written by a UK-based sponsor to support a friend, family member, or partner’s UK visitor visa application.

This is usually because you will need to demonstrate that you have ties to the visa applicant in question and that you will be able to support or accommodate the visitor for the entire duration of their stay in the UK.

The main content of the letter will be you inviting the visitor to stay in your home. Details about yourself, the visitor, and the trip itself should also be included in order to give the fullest and most detailed description of the visit as possible.

In addition, you should also include copies of supporting documents to verify and back up the information contained within the invitation letter.

What Are the Requirements for a Letter of Invitation?

In order for the invitation letter to be taken as valid evidence, you should:

Be a UK citizen, legal resident, or lawful permanent resident
Be a friend, relative, or partner/spouse of the visitor
Have a registered place of accommodation (such as a house or a flat that you rent or own)
Have enough space to accommodate the visitor for the whole duration of their stay

All of the information included in the letter must be truthful and accurate.

Who Should the Letter of Invitation be Addressed To?

Although the purpose of the letter of invitation is to invite someone to stay in your home, the letter doesn’t need to be addressed directly to the visitor.

This is because the invitation letter is simply a formality intended to convey supporting information such as your personal details, the visitor’s details and details about the visit to the British Entry Clearance Officer (ECO) or UK consular officer.

Therefore, the letter does not need to be written as though you are writing to, speaking to, or inviting the visitor directly.

Instead, it’s perfectly acceptable to write as though you are addressing the ECO, rather than the visitor. If so, then you may wish to start the letter with ‘Dear Sir/Madam’, or ‘To whom it may concern’.

However, you may wish to address the invitation letter to the visitor you are inviting to stay if you wish. This would then be written as ‘Dear <visitor’s name>’.

If you require assistance writing a letter of invitation, get in touch with us today.

What Information Should be Included in the Letter of Invitation?

Basic information to be included in the letter of invitation.

The letter of invitation should ideally contain details about the host, the visitor, and the trip itself.

It should include the host’s:

Full address
Telephone number
Status in the UK
Relationship to the visitor

In addition to this, it should also include the visitor’s:

Travel itinerary
Relationship to the host

The sponsor letter should also give details about the trip itself. The letter should include details regarding the following:

The length of the stay
The start and end dates of the stay
The purpose of the visit
The accommodation
Living, travel and other expenses

Additional Information to be Included in the Letter of Invitation

Details regarding the expenses should be outlined by the host. This may be stating that the host intends to fully financially support the visitor throughout the trip, including living and food costs. Alternatively, the invitation letter may state that the host and visitor intend to share costs throughout the trip, or that the visitor intends on paying a certain amount of the costs of the visit.

It may be that you’re unable to provide exact dates of the trip, as you or the visitor haven’t made any firm arrangements yet.

If so, then it’s acceptable to give a rough idea of the number of days or the date in the invitation letter. For example, this may be expressed as ‘I am inviting <visitor’s name> to stay with me for two weeks in August’, or ‘The visit will last for around eight days in November or December’.

In addition, if you and the visitor are planning to stay somewhere other than (or in addition to) your own home, you should include details about this also. This may be written as ‘We are also planning to stay in <location’s address> for three nights from <start date> to <end date>.

When outlining the purpose of the visit in the invitation letter, it may be something as simple as sightseeing, or wanting to spend time with friends or relatives. However, if the visitor is travelling to the UK for a specific reason, such as to attend a specific event or to take a course, then this should be mentioned in the letter.

What Supporting Documents Should be Included with the Letter of Invitation?

In order for the invitation letter to be accepted by the ECO, it should be accompanied by copies of supporting documents to back up the information included in the letter.

For example, these might be documents that prove your status as a UK citizen, or ones that prove that you’re able to financially support the visitor throughout the stay.

Below are some examples of supporting documents you may wish to include with the invitation letter:

A scan of your UK passport
A scan of something that confirms your status in the UK, such as biometric residence permit
Proof of rental or ownership of your home, such as a tenancy agreement
Proof of financial means, such as bank statements
Copies of any travel, accommodation or activity plans already arranged
Any other legal document that will support the visitor’s visa application

There are no specific documents that absolutely must be included with the letter. However, the more documents you include, the stronger the support for the visa application will be.

Sample Letter of Invitation

Below is an example of what a letter of invitation for a visitor visa or family visitor visa may look like. Note that this is only a rough template, and sections may be added, taken away, or edited as needed according to your own personal circumstances.

<Date>

Application for visitor visa for <visitor’s name>

To whom it may concern,

This is a letter of invitation inviting <visitor’s name, with date of birth> to come and stay with me, <your full name, with date of birth> in the UK. They will stay with me for <length of stay> at my address in <location> from <start date> to <end date>.

<Visitor’s name> is my <type of relationship here, with length of time known if applicable>, and the intention of the trip will be sightseeing, seeing family and travelling to local areas of interest.

In addition to <visitor’s name> staying in my own home, we will also spend three days lodging at <name of accommodation or place> from <start date> to <end date>. The address of the lodging is <address>.

I am a UK citizen by birth and work as a <occupation>. I fully intend to financially support <visitor’s name> for the duration of the trip, including food, room and board, and travel costs within the UK. I also have more than enough room in my own home to accommodate <visitor’s name> for the duration of their trip.

Please find attached copies of my British passport, tenancy agreement, work ID, and booking details of the lodgings in <location>. I have also enclosed a copy of my bank statement from <date> to confirm that I have the necessary funds to fund <visitor’s name>’s visit to the UK.

If you require any more information from me, please don’t hesitate to get in contact.

Yours faithfully,

How Can IAS Help?

If you’re required to write an invitation letter to support a UK visitor visa, it’s important to be clear on what you’re expected to include in it, as well as what supporting documents you will need.

However, if you require any assistance with writing an invitation letter for a UK visa, or if you have any questions about the process, IAS are here to help.

We are expert immigration lawyers who have years’ worth of experience in UK immigration law. We can assist you with any UK immigration or visa issue, including advising you on how to write, format and complete a letter of invitation for a UK visitor visa.

For more information about the services we offer, and to speak to one of our trusted legal advisers, get in touch with us today on 0333 305 9375 , or contact us through our form online .

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A guide to writing a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visitor Visa

Woman writing a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa.

The Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa, also known as a Sponsorship Letter for a UK Visa and as a Sponsor Letter, allows an individual to sponsor their friend, partner, or family member to come to the UK as part of their Standard Visitor Visa application. Please note that the letter does not guarantee entry into the UK, as the applicant for the visa must also meet other requirements.

The individual sponsoring the person visiting the UK must write the Letter of Invitation themselves. Alternatively, they could download a template, but they would still have to fill in the details themselves.

We shall tell you the important information you need to know about the letter, and how you can go about writing one.

Who can write a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa?

There are certain requirements that you must meet if you plan on sponsoring and hosting someone to stay with you.

The requirements are:

That you are a UK citizen, or a lawful permanent resident
Related to the person you are sponsoring, or are their friend or partner
Have a registered place to stay in the UK that you own or rent (a house or flat)
Enough space in your home to accommodate your visitor

How do I write the letter?

First, you will need to address the letter to the Home Office, not the person you are sponsoring. This is because an Entry Clearance Officer or UK Consular Officer will be dealing with the application, and so will need to read the letter to ensure everything is in order.

Since you will not know the name of the person reading the letter, you can choose to start the letter off with: ‘to whom it may concern’.

Ensure that your letter is written in a formal, official tone that is suitable to be read by a government official.

What should be included in an Invitation Letter for a UK Visa?

In your letter, you should include the following information about yourself:

Address and telephone number
Status in the UK (such as immigration status or citizenship)
Relationship to the visitor

Information about the visitor you are sponsoring should include:

Relationship to you
Length of stay and travel itinerary
Purpose of visit
How their expenses will be covered

There may be other details you will need to include. For example, if you and your visitor are going to be staying elsewhere during their trip, then you will need to include the address of where you are staying and the dates you will be staying there for.

All of the information you include must be completely truthful and accurate. If there are any inaccuracies, then the applicant’s Visitor Visa application will be refused.

Do I need to include supporting documents?

When you send your letter to the Home Office, you will also need to include supporting documents.

The documents you will need to include with your letter are:

Your valid UK passport
Evidence of your status in the UK (such as a biometric residence permit)
Proof of ownership or proof that you rent your home (such as a mortgage statement, letter from the landlord, or a tenancy agreement)
Evidence that you have the financial means to support your visitor (such as a bank statement)
Copies of travel, accommodation and or activity documents showing your plans

You do not need to send your original documents, scanned copies will be accepted.

What reasons can someone use a Visitor Visa for?

As you outline in the Invitation Letter for a UK Visa the reason for the visit, you should know what counts as a valid reason to use the Visitor Visa.

It can be used for more than just a visit to friends and family or tourism.

The visa can also be used for:

Attending an event
Taking a short course for up to 30 days
Carrying out research for academic, scientific or any other purpose
Undertaking a Permitted Paid Engagement , such as giving a lecture or performing as a musician
Volunteer for up to 30 days
Take an exam or study
Attend meetings or interviews
Medical reasons
School exchange programmes

Additionally, the visa allows you to work remotely from the UK; however, it cannot be the main reason for a visit.

How we can help

If you or someone you know wants to visit the UK, then we can help.

Our team of immigration experts can assist you with the drafting of an Invitation Letter for a UK Visa, as well as guide you through every step of the application process for a Standard Visitor Visa.

Arrange a free 10-minute consultation to discuss your needs with a member of our team. After this, you can arrange a longer consultation that can last either 30 minutes, or an hour.

The team member you initially talk to will act as your point of contact in the company, and you can ask them any questions you may have.

Get in touch with us today if you need any help with a Visitor Visa or the Invitation Letter for a UK Visa.

Ready for assistance?

If you have any questions about the changes or want legal advice, contact Woodcock Law & Notary Public today. Contact us by phone on +44 (0)20 7712 1705 or by email at [email protected].

Woodcock Law & Notary Public is the combined trading name of Woodcock Law Limited (Co. No: 12080697) and Woodcock Notary Public Limited (Co. No: 12085976). Woodcock Law Limited is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (registration number 664924).

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Inviting friends and family to come visit you in the uk.

In this chapter I’ll detail:

Standard Visitor visa

Valid reasons for visiting the uk, proper and appropriate accommodations, access to sufficient funds to support themselves, strong ties to their home country, genuine relationship with you.

Your friends and family might wish to visit you in the UK so that you can spend time together as well as see and experience the various attractions around the country. If they are not exempt (this depends on their nationality), then they will need to apply for a Standard Visitor visa.

The full requirements are available on the official UK Government page for Standard Visitor visas which also details what the visitors can and cannot do in the UK. The documents they will need to provide is extensive, as they will have to prove that (among other things) they have:

Access to sufficient funds (either self-funded or by a third-party, such as you) to support themselves
Strong ties to their home country where they will return to after their UK visit (i.e. they will not illegally over-stay in the UK)
A genuine relationship with you

As a supporting document you should provide them a letter of invitation that they will include as part of their application. This is important especially if you’re helping them apply, as it establishes your relationship with them and makes clear what kind of support you will be providing them during their visit. A letter of invitation will strengthen their application, giving it a better case for approval.

I’m sharing the template I use; download the letter of invitation in support of a visitor visa application here . The template has placeholders for all the information noted above, and guidance on how to fill-out and print the document. Edit it accordingly, and send it (along with other required evidence from you) to the visitor so they can include it when they submit their application.

Visitors generally can perform tourist activities as well as business-related (not work – this is different) activities as outlined in the UK Government’s Visitor Rules . What they cannot do are:

Do paid work
Do unpaid work
Live in the UK for long periods of time through frequent visits
Get public funds
Marry or enter into a civil partnership, or provide notice of marriage or civil partnership

A detailed guidance for visitors can be found at the official Visit Guidance by the UK Government.

You must ensure that the invitation letter clearly indicates the reasons the visitor is coming to UK, and that those reasons are valid.

If you are accommodating the visitors in your home then you’ll need to prove that:

You legally live where you claim to live: this can be your lease agreement or your council tax bill
Your residence is physically sufficient to house you and your guests: this can be your lease agreement showing the number of bedrooms your residence has, or a letter from your agent or landlord

If your visitors will be staying in paid accommodations then they will need to show that they can afford this on top of the other expenditures for their trip as well as their other expenditures in their home country while they are away.

Your visitors will need to show they have enough liquid funds to support themselves during their visit, and that they have had access to these funds for some time.

As the cost of living varies wildly in the UK depending on location, it is not prescribed how much these funds should be. The visitor should demonstrate that they understand what the costs are for where they are going and what they are planning to do, and that they have funds in excess of this, on top of the money set aside for regular expenditures (such as mortgage) in their home country. Additionally, they should be able to show that this money has been available in their account for some time; this duration is not prescribed but six months is a safe figure to use.

If you are paying for their visit then you’ll need to show that you can afford this on top of your own day-to-day costs of living in the UK.

The UK wants certainty that visitors will go back to their home country after their visit, and not stay in the UK illegally. Visitors thus will need to provide evidence that they have strong ties to their home country. This can be shown in a number of ways:

The visitor has a stable job in their home country
The visitor owns properties or businesses in their home country
The visitor has other relatives that depend on them, living in their home country

All of these will have to be evidenced and included as part of their application. You should reiterate in your support letter that the visitor will return to their home country after they visit you in the UK.

You need to show how you are connected to the visitor. If you are friends or colleagues, you need to provide more detail (as opposed to if you were family); for instance, how you first met, or how long you have known each other.

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Letter of Invitation for friends and family to visit the UK – Guidelines and Samples

Tell Us What You Think?

To apply for the UK visit visa it is required that the applicant submits an invitation letter. A letter of invitation for the UK visit visa is a letter written by a citizen or legal resident of the United Kingdom, addressed to a foreigner with whom they have family ties or friendship, inviting them to stay over at their house. It is also a confirmation that they have enough room for the visitor, for the entire period of their stay in the UK.

This letter, also known as a sponsorship letter for UK Visa, can also be written in another format. The letter can be written addressed to the UK consular officer, confirming that they are willing to admit an international with whom they have family ties or friendship, and also that they have enough room for the visitor for the entire period of their stay in the UK. Either version is acceptable.

In order for the letter to be valid and taken into account by the UK consular officer, the host who writes the letter must fulfil the following requirements:

must be a UK citizen or lawful permanent resident
must be a visitor’s friend, boyfriend/girlfriend or relative
must have a registered place (home, flat)
must have enough room for the visitor during their whole period of stay in the UK

How to Write a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa?

Though writing an invitation letter might sound challenging especially for the host, it is actually a very simple thing to do. If you are the host, you will just have to write down why you are willing to admit this person in your house and how long they are going to stay. However, if you still feel clueless here you have a guideline on how to write a letter of invitation for a UK Visa. Download a sample invitation letter here .

Decide to whom you are going to address the letter, to your guest or the consular officer. It might seem a tricky decision to make, but it does not matter that much. The important thing is what you say and not to whom. In both cases, the consular officer is going to read it.

If you do not know where to start writing a letter of invitation for a UK visa, write the following information in a list:

Your full name
Your date of birth
Your full address and telephone number in the United Kingdom
Your occupation
Your status in the United Kingdom
Visitor’s full name
Visitor’s date of birth
Visitor’s address and telephone number
Visitor’s relationship to the host
Visitor’s purpose of the trip
How long the guest intends to stay in the UK (specific dates)
Details on accommodation and living expenses
Your signature

Every sponsorship letter for UK visa must contain the above-listed information. After writing all this information in a paper, then you can start arranging it in the form of a letter and shaping it.

Supporting Documents

In order for what is written in the letter to be taken into account by the consular officer, it is better for the host to send some additional documents alongside the Letter of Invitation. These extra requirements are not a must, but they are still a huge plus in visitor’s favour. These documents are as follows:

A scanned copy of the host’s ID/passport
Evidence of their status in the UK
Evidence of means of subsistence (if the host will financially support the guest)
Proof of home / flat ownership or rental contract
You may also add any other document that you believe would help your visitor in getting their visa.

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How to Write a Invitation Letter for UK Visa?

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Table of Content

What is a letter of invitation, who needs a letter of invitation, who is eligible to write a letter of invitation, what should you include in a letter of invitation, should i provide supporting documents with the letter, who should the letter be addressed to, sample letter of invitation, how can a y & j help.

If a friend or loved one would like to come to the UK on a Standard Visitor Visa, including a letter of invitation with their application can greatly increase the likelihood that it will be accepted.

The UK is an expensive place to visit, so the UK Border Agency will want to confirm that visitors to the UK have the provisions to take care of themselves. This will typically be in the form of a hotel reservation and proof of funds for the duration of their trip.

But if the person is planning to stay with friends or family during their trip, and their expenses will be generously covered by their host, this can be more difficult to prove.

To get around this issue, some applicants will use a letter of invitation from their hosts to help confirm the details of their visit. If the applicant has had a visitor visa application denied in the past, supplying a letter of invitation with their subsequent application could help to avoid a similar fate.

In this guide, we will explore the purpose of the letter of invitation, who can write one, what needs to be included and then a sample of what a letter of invitation might look like.

The letter of invitation is simply a formal way to confirm that an individual will be staying in your home during their visit. It can also confirm things like the proposed duration of their visit and how they will fund their trip.

This can give reassurance to Border Control Officers that the purpose of the individual’s visit is genuine. Genuineness is one of the more vague aspects of UK visa application requirements.

The letter of invitation will demonstrate that you have ties to the individual and that you intend to support them during their trip, either by providing accommodation or paying for their living expenses.

Without this letter, the applicant might need to demonstrate that they have a hotel room for the duration of their visit and funds to cover their visit.

A letter of invitation is not a requirement for a Standard Visitor Visa, but it can help to strengthen an application and reduce the chance of scrutiny at the border. To avoid a trip being cancelled at the last minute because you are unable to gain entry clearance to the UK, you might consider securing a letter of invitation.

A letter of invitation is particularly useful if you have limited funds for your trip and you intend to stay with friends or family. The nature of your visit may be called into question if you do not have accommodation booked or you don’t have extensive funds to pay for your visit.

To get around this, we recommend supplying a letter of invitation alongside your application. You should also travel with this letter, as it will include important information that border agents may wish to check before granting you entry clearance.

To be eligible to write an invitation letter for a UK visa, you need to meet the following criteria:

You must be a UK citizen or have permanent residence
You must be a friend, relative or partner/spouse of the visitor
You must have your own accommodation, such as a house or flat that you rent or own
You must have enough space to accommodate your visitor for the duration of their visit

If you will not be staying at your home for the duration of the visit, you need to provide evidence of other accommodation provisions. For example, this could include a hotel reservation for a weekend trip away.

The person writing the letter should also be aware of what is happening and be able to confirm the details of the letter if asked about this at a later date. You can get help to write the letter, but you should be aware you may be asked to confirm the details later.

Your invitation letter for a UK visa should include all of the relevant information about the visit. This can include:

Details of your citizenship or residence status
Information about your relationship to the applicant and how long you have known them
Details about your accommodation, including the address, type of property and whether you own or rent
Information about your occupation and your employer. This will help to confirm you have the funds to support the individual for the duration of their visit, if relevant.
Details about the timing of the trip, including the full duration and how long you will be supporting them. You don’t have to have exact dates. For example, you could write “I have invited [applicant] to stay in my home for two weeks in November.”
Information about the purpose of the visit, such as visiting family or tourism.
If you intend to cover all of their expenses, part of their expenses or none of their expenses.

Above all else, you should be honest in your invitation letter. Don’t feel pressured to lie in the letter just to make things easier for the applicant. For example, if they are only staying with you for a few nights and then they are making their own arrangements, you can state this in the letter. It’s down to the applicant to confirm their arrangements for the trip.

Supporting documents can help to strengthen the merit of your letter of invitation. The documents you provide will all depend on the information you share in the letter. Supporting documents could include:

A copy of your passport or proof of residence status
Proof of ownership of your property or a tenancy agreement
Proof of your financial means, such as bank statements
Details of travel plans and itineraries

Anything that can support the statements in your invitation letter will help to improve the chances the individual will be granted entry to the UK.

This part often confuses people as the letter isn’t really intended for anyone in particular, it is just a formal way to confirm you will be hosting the applicant. It’s common to address the letter “To whom it may concern”, or “Dear Sir/Madam”.

If you’re not sure what to include in your letter of invitation, or how to format it, we’ve included a sample letter below. Use this as a reference, but don’t copy it directly, as some of the information might not be relevant to you.

Your Address

Your Phone Number

Your Email Address

Application for Standard Visitor Visa For <Applicant’s Name>

Dear Sir or Madam,

This is a letter of invitation for <Applicant’s Name and Date of Birth> to stay with me, <Your Full Name and Date of Birth> at <Your Address> on <Dates of Visit>.

<Applicant’s Name> is my <Relationship to you> and I have known them for <X> years. The purpose of the trip is for sightseeing around the UK and for visiting family members. In addition to two weeks spent at my home, we will also travel to Brighton where we will stay at the <Hotel Name> for <X> days. I have enclosed a copy of your train reservations and hotel booking confirmation.

I am a UK citizen by birth and I have enclosed a copy of my passport to confirm this. I rent my own three-bedroom home and have included a copy of my tenancy agreement to confirm this. My guest will occupy one of the bedrooms for the duration of their visit. I will also be covering their food and travel expenses during this trip.

I am employed full-time as an accountant and have included my three most recent pay cheques and copies of my bank statements to confirm I have the funds to accommodate my guest. I have also included a copy of my holiday request confirmation from my employer to confirm I will be taking annual leave for the duration of my visitor’s stay.

If you require any further information about the visit, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Yours faithfully,

A Y & J Solicitors is a specialist immigration law firm with extensive experience with standard UK visitor visas . We have an in-depth understanding of immigration law and are professional and results-focused. For assistance with your visa application or any other UK immigration law concerns, please contact us on +44 20 7404 7933 or contact us today . We’re here to help!

Yash Dubal, Founder & Director of A Y & J Solicitors, is a renowned lawyer and entrepreneur. Known for innovative immigration law webinars, he's propelled the firm to award-winning heights. His work champions equality and accessibility, aiding UK immigrants. Yash also dedicates himself to social causes, participating in marathons for charities like the British Red Cross and Pratham. His dedication to immigrant success is unwavering.

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What Letters do I need to include with my UK Visa Application?

Invitation Letter

Visa applications this relates to: visitor visas.

A letter of invitation (also referred to as an invitation letter or sponsorship letter) is usually required for visitor visa applications when:

The Applicant(s) will be visiting and/or staying in the UK with family, friends or partners.
The Applicant(s) needs to carry out activities relating to your employment/profession or study outside the UK (e.g. attending business meetings or performing as a musician, participating in an academic exchange).
Participating in a (permitted) paid engagement for UK-based organisation or client.

The letter of invitation serves as (further/additional) evidence of the purpose for your visit, what you will be doing during your stay and any other critical information that is relevant e.g. your family member or friend will be providing you accommodation and/or financial support for your trip.

Ultimately, you want to emphasise to the Entry Clearance Officer that you will be coming to the UK as a genuine visitor and will not be breaching the rules of your visit visa when you come to the UK.

More about what to include and structure an Invitation Letter is covered in the following article here .

Cover Letter

Visa Applications this relates to: All Visa/Settlement Applications

Cover letters are the best way to summarise your case and confirm how you meet all of the requirements for your visa. It also offers you the opportunity to address any potential weaknesses or concerns in your visa application. Whether it's a gap in employment, an unusual travel history, or a complex family situation, applicants can use the cover letter to provide context and clarification.

To make your cover letter as effective as possible, it is essential to keep everything to the point i.e. how all of the requirements are being met. The common mistake individuals make is including too much detail about their personal circumstances or relationship history with their sponsor, which has no (or very little) relevance to satisfying any of the immigration rules for the respective application.

Another article where we discuss whether or not you should include a cover letter with your visa application can be found here .

Employer Confirmation Letter

Visa Applications this relates to: Visas with a Financial or Employment Requirement

UK Spouse/Partner Visas

A fundamental requirement of the UK Spouse/Partner visa is that the sponsor (and/or applicant, for applications being made inside the UK) are earning or receiving income from their employment or other sources to financially support themselves and their partner for the duration of their visa. The minimum income requirement they must meet for this is £18,600 (gross) per annum (for single applicants applying without any child dependants).

If they are relying on their employment income to meet the financial requirement, as well as payslips and bank statements, an official letter from their employer must also be provided to confirm that they have been working for the company for at least 6 months and earning the required level of salary at the time of submitting the application.

Skilled/Health and Care Worker Visas

If you are applying for a Skilled or Health and Care Worker visa (formally Tier 2 General) , you will need to provide an official confirmation of a job offer from a UK company that is licensed to hire foreign workers.

If you are already in the UK with a Skilled Worker visa and are extending your visa, or applying for your partner and children to join you in the UK as your dependants, you will need to provide an official letter from your employer to confirm that you are still working for the organisation in the relevant role.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (Skilled/Health and Care Worker Route)

For applicants applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain as a Skilled/Health and Care Worker (Set O), a letter from their employer must be submitted with relevant details of their current work sponsorship, including their salary, contractual hours and confirmation that the employer will continue to sponsor them for the foreseeable future.

Employers must also provide a letter detailing reasons for any work-related absences the applicant had throughout the time they have been sponsored by them, including any periods of paid annual leave from the UK.

Visitor Visas

Two of the most important criteria for a Visitor visa to be granted is that the applicant has significant ties to their country of residence, and that they have the funds required to cover all the costs for their trip to the UK. If the applicant is currently in full-time employment, earns a good salary and has been in their job for a considerable period of time (at least 6 months or more), the Home Office can consider this as being a significant reason for the individual needing to return back to their country upon completing their visit in the UK. Likewise, if the applicant will be using their income from their employment to fund their trip, they will need to prove that they are earning the level of income (and if relevant, put together savings from this) to cover all their expenses for the duration of their visit. Therefore an official letter from their employer must also be provided, confirming that they work for the company, including details of how long they have been with the organisation and their current salary. Applicants will also be expected to provide pay slips and bank statements to evidence that the funds they will be using originate from their employment income.

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Letters of Support from Family/Friends

Visa Applications this relates to: Family Member Applications, such as Spouse/Partner and Dependant Visas

Letters of Support are different from cover letters (discussed earlier). These are statements from either the applicant's spouse/partner (the sponsor), family relatives, or close friends.

Sponsor Spouse/Partner Letters

Letters should be written by the sponsor spouse/partner and should confirm that the relationship is genuine and subsisting. It must also convey that they are willingly sponsoring their partner’s visa application.

Letters from Family/Friends

Family/friends can write a letter which can act as additional proof that a couple's relationship is genuine and subsisting. Such letters do not need to be too detailed and only need to be 1 to 2 paragraphs confirming the relationship and how they know one / both of the couple.

Consent from Property Owner Letter for UK Visa

Consent Letter from Property Owner(s)

Visa Applications this relates to: All Visas with an Accommodation requirement

Where an applicant will be living in rented accommodation where they are not currently a named tenant, a consent letter from the landlord or lettings agent (whichever is applicable) must be provided to confirm that the individual(s) have permission to reside at the property.

If the visa applicant will be living with their/their partner and/or parent(s) in a property owned by family/friends, a consent letter from the owners will need to be provided.

Official Items of Correspondence

Visa Applications this relates to: Visa and Settlement Applications with a continuous residence or proof of cohabitation requirement

Some visa/settlement applications have a requirement of continuous residence in the UK, continuous cohabitation with your sponsor, or, in the case of some applications, even both of these, e.g., spouse/partner and dependant visa extensions. The evidence the Home Office requires to prove that individuals meet these criteria is official items of correspondence covering each year of the qualifying period (and from multiple sources). For most applications, the qualifying period ranges from 2 years to 5 years (but this can be as much as 20 years in the case of settlement under long residence). Official correspondence includes items such as Tenancy Agreements, Council tax bills, utility bills, bank statements, government letters, employment letters, etc.

Unmarried Partner Visas

Partners of a British Nationals or individuals with valid immigration status in the UK who have been living together with their (sponsor) partner continuously for at least 2 years may be eligible to apply as an unmarried partner (dependant) to enter or remain in the UK. - The 2-year qualifying period of continuous cohabitation will need to be evidenced with official letters of correspondence addressed to both the applicant and sponsor, either jointly or individually, at the address(es) they have been living together.

Spouse/Partner and Dependant Visa Extensions

As with unmarried partners (see above), family visa extensions i.e. individuals renewing their existing spouse/partners or dependant visas, also have a requirement of continuous cohabitation of the applicant and their sponsor. To meet this, they must submit official letters of correspondence addressed to both the applicant and sponsor, either jointly or individually, at the address(es) they have been living together, covering the last 2 years they have been in the UK with their current visa.

Indefinite Leave to Remain Applications

Depending on the route the person is applying under, the current qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) can be 5 years, 10 years, or 20 years of continuous leave in the UK. Therefore, official items of correspondence addressed to the applicant (and sponsor, if applying under a partner or dependant visa route) must be submitted covering each year of the respective qualifying period of continuous residence (and cohabitation if applicable) in the UK.

Naturalisation (British Citizenship)

Individuals applying for naturalisation are required to provide official items of correspondence addressed to them in the uk, covering the last 5 years. if the applicant is married to a british citizen, only the last 3 years must be covered., eu settlement scheme applications, eu nationals or their family members wishing to apply under the eu settlement scheme may need to submit evidence of them residing in the uk. if applying for settled status, official items of correspondence in the uk covering the 5 year qualifying period may need to be submitted. instances where this is not required are when the home office is able to look up the applicant's uk tax records, which confirm that they have been residing (and working) in the uk throughout the qualifying period..

Every visa application requires specific documents to be submitted to demonstrate that all the requirements for the visa are satisfied. Some of the supporting documents include specific letters from the applicant, sponsor(s) or both. Some are mandatory and some can serve as additional proof or clarification about a specific aspect of your case, which may strengthen your application.

Any letters written by individuals must be well structured and include all the relevant information in a clear and concise manner so it is easy to read. It is important to note, however, that no matter how well a letter is constructed, it can never compensate for the failure to provide or lack of any key supporting documents the Home Office requires for your application.

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What Documents do I need for a Spouse Visa UK Extension?

What Documents do I need for a UK Spouse or Partner Visa?

What Documents do I need for FLR M?

Do I need to include a Cover Letter with my UK Spouse or Partner Visa Application?

How to write a Letter of Invitation for a UK visitor visa Application

Melanie Wong | Immigration Solicitor | UK Visa Expert

Melanie Wong is a Senior Immigration Solicitor based in London, UK.

With over 20 years of legal experience , she has extensive knowledge and exposure of all areas of UK immigration law, with particular expertise in handling difficult and technically complex cases , including UK Settlement, Human Rights and British nationality law.

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information and law contained in this article is accurate and current as of the date of publication, we accept no responsibility for its accuracy or for any loss or damages arising from accessing, or the reliance, of this guidance.

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Letter of Invitation for Friends and Family to Visit the UK

In order for the letter to be valid and taken into account by the UK consular officer, the host who writes the letter must fulfil the following requirements:

must be a UK citizen or lawful permanent resident
must be a visitor’s friend, boyfriend/girlfriend or relative
must have a registered place (home, flat)
must have enough room for the visitor during their whole period of stay in the UK

How to Write a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa?

If you do not know where to start writing a letter of invitation for a UK visa, write the following information in a list:

Your full name
Your date of birth
Your full address and telephone number in the United Kingdom
Your occupation
Your status in the United Kingdom
Visitor’s full name
Visitor’s date of birth
Visitor’s address and telephone number
Visitor’s relationship to the host
Visitor’s purpose of the trip
How long the guest intends to stay in the UK (specific dates)
Details on accommodation and living expenses
Your signature

Every sponsorship letter for a UK visa must contain the above-listed information. After writing all this information on a paper, then you can start arranging it in the form of a letter and shaping it.

Supporting Documents

A scanned copy of the host’s ID/passport
Evidence of their status in the UK
Evidence of means of subsistence (if the host will financially support the guest)
Proof of home / flat ownership or rental contract
You may also add any other document that you believe would help your visitor in getting their visa.

Contact our Immigration Advisers

For expert advice and assistance in relation to a visitor visa application , contact our immigration advisers in London on 0208 638 5532 or via the enquiry form .

Disclaimer:

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Adivis and authors accept no responsibility for loss that may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please don’t hesitate to contact Adivis. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Adivis.

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How to write a letter of invitation for a uk visa.

Writing an invitation letter is an important part of having a friend, a partner, or a relative relocated to the United Kingdom. Since it is a part of the official procedure, the rules such as the format of the letter of invitation are strict and have to be followed with precision. The article will cover important questions such as how to send an invitation letter for a visa as well as the technical details of the procedure.

What is a Visa Invitation Letter?

The main purpose of such a letter is to support a visa application. It is used in case the applicant is getting invited on sponsorship terms, meaning the author of the letter will provide them with accommodation and support them throughout their stay in the United Kingdom.

With the help of a supporting letter for visa, the Home Office can verify the intentions of the applicant and ensure they won’t need any support from the government during their visit. Even though the sponsor letter for a UK visitor visa is not the most vital part of the procedure, an otherwise perfect application may easily be turned down because of an improper submission of the letter.

Requirements for a Letter of Invitation

The author of an invitation letter for a UK visa for a friend or a relative should ensure they comply with all the requirements to become a sponsor of the applicant. First of all, it is necessary for the author to be a UK citizen, as only they are allowed to sponsor visitors to the country.

Secondly, it is necessary for the author to have a relationship with the applicant. As it was already mentioned, it is possible to write a UK visa invitation letter for parents, friends, relatives, and partners. It is important to keep in mind that the relationship has to be proven in order for the Home Office to accept the letter.

The last requirement is associated with providing the applicant with accommodation. It will be necessary to include the details regarding the property the visitor is going to stay at, whether it is an owned property or a rented out place. The property itself should be large enough to accommodate the visitor, and the invite letter for a UK visa should include all the relevant details to prove it matches the criteria.

Who Should the Letter of Invitation be Addressed To?

It might sound counter-intuitive, but a letter of invitation for a visa is not addressed to the person who is being invited to the United Kingdom. It is a document that will be reviewed by the Home Office as a part of the application, and it is needed to have proof that the person visiting the country will be supported throughout the duration of their stay.

With that in mind, the tone of writing should be official, and the letter itself should be addressed to the government’s representatives who will be reviewing it. Since it is a letter to the embassy for a visa request and it is impossible to know the person who will be checking it in advance, the author is allowed to open it with “Dear Sir or Madam”.

What Information Should be Included in the Letter of Invitation?

There are three groups of details that should be covered in an invitation letter for a UK visa. It includes the author’s personal information, information about the applicant, and information about their relationships and planned interactions.

The author of the invitation letter for a visa to the UK should include their full name and address, phone number, profession and current occupation, and their legal status in the country. The details about the applicant should include their full name and the schedule of their planned trip to the United Kingdom.

The third part of the letter should cover all the relevant details regarding the visit. It should include information about the relationships between the author and the applicant, the planned length of the applicant’s trip to the UK, the purpose of the trip, and the details regarding the accommodation. The letter of accommodation for a UK visa should also include financial details, since the author is supposed to sponsor the applicant.

In case some details of the trip have not been arranged yet, it is appropriate to include approximate information to the invitation letter for a UK visa for family members or eligible visitors. This especially relates to the dates of the trip, as they are rarely arranged when the immigration letter of invitation is submitted.

What supporting documents should be attached to the Invitation Letter?

As it has been mentioned in the previous sections, the details included in the invitation letter for a spouse visa or other type of UK visa should be proven in order for the Home Office to accept it. For the author, it means that they will have to attach a number of supporting documents to the letter.

First of all, it will be necessary to attach a scan of the passport and a document that proves the author’s citizenship in the United Kingdom. Secondly, the letter should include documents regarding the property. Whether it is owned or rented out by the sponsor, the corresponding documents have to be attached to prove the accommodation is arranged.

The author will also have to prove their ability to sponsor the visitor. Thus, it will be necessary to attach bank statements or other documents that will let the Home Office ensure the author is capable of supporting the visitor financially throughout their stay in the United Kingdom. In case the trip has already been arranged, the traveling documents should be included in the letter as well.

Sample of Invitation Letter for UK Visa

The procedure is rather straightforward, so for the majority of cases, a standard form can be used. The template of an invitation letter for a visa can be found below.

Sponsor’s Name Sponsor’s Address Sponsor’s Phone Number Sponsor’s Email Address Date of Writing the Letter

Application for visitor visa for *name of the applicant* Dear sir/madam,

This is a letter of invitation for *name of the visitor and their date of birth* to come to the United Kingdom and stay with me *author’s name and date of birth*. They will stay with me for *planned duration* at *address* from *starting date* to *ending date*.

*Name of the applicant* is my *friend/relative*, and the intention of the visit is *description of the visit’s intention*.

I am a UK citizen by birth and work as a *profession* at *company*. I intend to financially support the *applicant’s name* throughout the duration of the trip, including food, accommodation, and travel expenses within the United Kingdom. I also have enough space to accommodate *applicant’s name* at my *type of property* for the duration of their visit.

Please find attached *mention the supporting documents attached to the letter*.

If any additional details are required, feel free to contact me.

Yours faithfully,

*Author’s signature*

*Author’s name*

How we can help?

The team of Sterling Law is always willing to help UK citizens with writing invitation letters for their friends, relatives, or partners. Our solicitors know exactly how to invite someone to the UK without any trouble, and we are ready to review each case individually. Feel free to book a consultation online or visit our office in London to get personal help from our experienced team of lawyers.

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Visas and immigration
What you need to do

How to apply for a visa to come to the UK

Getting a decision on your application.

You’ll get a letter or an email telling you the Home Office has made a decision on your application.

It will tell you what you need to do next.

If you have not received your email, check your spam or junk folder.

If your application is successful

You’ll be given either:

a sticker (called a vignette) that goes in your passport - if you gave your biometric information at a visa application centre
access to view your immigration status information online - if you used the smartphone app to prove your identity

The vignette or online immigration status information will show:

what you’ve been granted (for example, a Student visa)
the dates your visa is valid (start date and end date)
the conditions of your visa

Your visa conditions

The conditions say what you can and cannot do in the UK. For example, they might say:

‘No access to public funds’ - you cannot claim benefits
‘No work’ - you cannot take paid or unpaid work in the UK
‘Restricted work’ - you can only work for your sponsor

Getting your vignette

If the visa application centre kept your passport, they’ll either:

send it to you with the vignette inside - if you paid for this service when you applied
ask you to collect the passport and vignette

If you kept your passport, you’ll need to take it to the visa application centre to collect your vignette.

If there’s an error in your vignette

If you notice an error in your vignette, you should contact your visa application centre immediately to correct it before you come to the UK.

If you notice the error after you’ve arrived in the UK, you must report it to UK Visas and Immigration ( UKVI ) within 3 months of arriving or you’ll need to make a new application.

Getting a biometric residence permit

If you get a vignette and you’re coming to the UK for more than 6 months then you have to collect a biometric residence permit ( BRP ) after you arrive.

You must do this before the vignette sticker expires or within 10 days of arriving in the UK, whichever is later.

You choose where to collect your BRP from during your application.

When you get your BRP , check the details are correct. If your name is long it may appear ‘cut off’. This is not a mistake - it is because there is limited space on the BRP card. However, if there’s a spelling mistake, you must report it .

You need to report any errors in your BRP within 10 days of collecting it.

If you get access to your immigration status information online

You’ll be able to view your immigration status information online . You can also use the online service to share your immigration status information with others, for example employers or universities.

Some government organisations and public authorities will be able to access your immigration status information, for example when you travel through the UK border.

You will not get a vignette or a BRP .

If your application is refused

You’ll get a letter or an email explaining why your application was refused.

Your passport will be returned, if it was kept as part of your application.

Your refusal letter will explain if you have the right to either an:

administrative review
immigration decision appeal

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

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NeurIPS 2024 Visa Information

NeurIPS 2024 will be held in Vancouver Canada from December 9th to 15th, 2024 .

Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada .

If you do need a visa to enter Canada follow the steps below, Please read this page carefully because there are updates to the visa process for 2024

Purchase a in-person registration
Generate your visa Invitation letter
Submit your Canadian Visa Application. See the details below.
Return to the visa invitation letter page and enter your legal name, the country that issued your passport, and your Canadian visa application number. Failure to complete this step may impact your ability to enter Canada.

As required by Canada we will be submitting reports to Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) with your registration email, your legal name, the country that issued your passport and your Canadian visa application number

Visa Application

For more information about the visa application processes, see: Visit Canada and this information letter . .

If you need a visa, apply online through the IRCC Secure Network .

Make sure you complete all parts of your application. A common reason for visa denial in previous years has been the submission of an incomplete application.

Biometric Instructions

Information dislcosure.

Your information will be shared with the IRCC to identify and coordinate the processing of visa applications. See the Privacy Act for details .

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can I cancel my registration if my visa is denied?

Yes; see the details in our cancellation policy .

Who should I list as the Point of Contact on the visa application?

Use the contact information for the Neural Information Processing Systems Foundation given in their NeurIPS visa invitation letter.

Where can I find the Special Event Code?

The code is available in the visa invitation letter

What should I put as the Purpose of my visit

Select: Other

When & where should I apply for my visa?

If you require a visa to travel to the Canada, we recommend starting the application process as soon as you know that you will attend NeurIPS, as the wait time for the mandatory in-person visa appointment can be highly variable.

What should I bring to my visa interview?

The IRCC provides guidance on required documentation for a visitor visa interview. Please also check the specific requirements of the embassy or consulate that will conduct your interview.

Beyond required documents, you may be able to provide supplemental supporting documents online and/or in a visa interview, subject to the procedure of the specific embassy or consulate. Supplemental supporting documents should aid in establishing your residence and ties abroad and thus your ability and intent to leave Canada after the visit. Examples of such supporting documents include:

Invitation letter: The invitation letter issued to you by NeurIPS, with details of your contributions to NeurIPS.
Travel plan: Complete itinerary of your intended travel, including booking confirmation of a return flight and of accommodation during your stay.
Financial support: Evidence of ability to pay for the trip or confirmation of funding provided for flights, accommodation, food, and incidental costs.
Continuing status: Official documentation to prove you are a student, post-doc, or employee and that you will return to your country/region of residence for continuing studies or employment; evidence of familial ties in your country/region of residence.

If I receive a visa am I guaranteed to be able to enter Canada to attend NeurIPS?

Unfortunately, it is possible that the immigration officer that processes your entry into Canada (usually, at the airport after landing in Canada) may require you to undergo a secondary interview to make an immigration determination. Please travel prepared for this possibility, and carry on your person the same evidence you presented at your visa appointment, including a printed copy of your NeurIPS invitation letter.

Questions or concerns?

Direct unanswered questions to the NeurIPS 2024 Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility Chairs via the NeurIPS Contact page.

Blog Home Office in the media

https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/2024/04/17/media-factsheet-evisas/

Media factsheet: eVisas

eVisas are a key part of delivering a border and immigration system which will be ‘digital by default’ by 2025. This process is already underway, and millions of people in the UK who applied for their visa through the EU Settlement Scheme or used the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app already have an eVisa (digital proof of their immigration status). These changes bring significant benefits to customers, deliver excellent value, and increase the UK immigration system’s security and efficiency.

An eVisa is an online record of a customer’s immigration permission in the UK, and any conditions which apply. It can be viewed by logging into the online ‘View and prove your immigration status’ service using their UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. It is usually linked to a customer’s passport to facilitate straightforward international travel.

Using a phased approach to implementing digital services, the intention is that by 2025 most customers will have a secure and seamless digital journey when they interact with the UK’s immigration system.

Over time this will see physical and paper-based products and services replaced with accessible, straightforward online and digital services (such as the ‘view and prove’ service) and products such as the eVisa.

The Home Office has launched a phased rollout of eVisas to biometric residence permit (BRP). Initially this is to BRP holders by email invitation only, being sent in phases. The service will open to all BRP holders from summer 2024. Customers with BRPs do not need to do anything unless they receive an email, and don’t need to contact the Home Office if they do not receive an email immediately because the service will open to all in the summer.

The latest information on eVisas is available at www.gov.uk/evisa . Holders of other physical immigration documents, including (for those who hold indefinite leave to enter or indefinite leave to remain) passports containing vignette visa stickers or ink stamps, and biometric residence cards (BRCs), can also find information there on how to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. It is free, and straightforward for customers who hold physical and paper documents to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. Creating a UKVI account will not change, impact or remove customers’ current immigration status or their rights in the UK.

Customers who already have an eVisa, including anyone granted status through the EU Settlement Scheme, do not need to do anything. This is also the case if a customer holds both a physical document, such as a BRP, and an eVisa. Customers who are not sure if they already have a UKVI account and eVisa can either check here on GOV.UK or refer to their original grant email or letter.

Further information and future updates, including details of the support available, is available at www.gov.uk/evisa . This will be updated throughout 2024.

An eVisa partner pack comprising further information and factsheets for stakeholders is also available here to download.

What is an eVisa?

An eVisa is an electronic record of a person’s immigration status.

It removes the need for physical documents such as the biometric residence permit (BRP), ink stamps or vignette visa stickers in passports, or the biometric residence card (BRC).

It explains the immigration status of the holder, including the conditions of the immigration permission such as any limitations on their right to work.

Customers can view their eVisa by logging into the view and prove service using their UKVI account and share relevant information about their status securely with third parties, such as employers or private service providers such as letting agencies.

What are the benefits of eVisas?

eVisas bring significant benefits, deliver excellent value and increase the UK immigration system’s security and efficiency.

They will also bring significant benefits to customers who hold an immigration status in the UK:

An eVisa cannot be lost, stolen or damaged.
Customers can prove their rights instantly, accurately and securely to anyone who requests it while sharing only necessary information.
With an eVisa, fewer customers will need to leave their passport with the Home Office while awaiting a decision. eVisas also mean that customers do not need to collect documents like BRPs or wait for these documents to be sent to them.
With a UKVI account, customers can easily keep the Home Office updated with any changes in their details or documentation. For example, customers can tell us about changes to their name and nationality, travel document (such as passport), email, telephone and postal address contact details.
Customers can access many UK government services and benefits without needing to present proof of immigration status. This is because selected government departments and authorities including the Department for Work and Pensions and the National Health Service in England and Wales, can securely access immigration status information automatically through system to system checks. Immigration data is held securely, and government will never sell customer data. Further information on how the Home Office handles customer data can be found here on GOV.UK .

It is also simpler for those who need to check someone’s UK immigration status (such as employers and landlords), to use online services, rather than having to maintain awareness of, and look through, different types of physical immigration documents, some of which may be in bad condition, or even fraudulent. As more and more customers create UKVI accounts, checkers can increasingly conduct one quick and simple check using a secure online service on GOV.UK

When are eVisas launching?

Although millions of customers already have and use eVisas, including everyone granted status under the EU Settlement Scheme, throughout 2024 customers who currently use physical immigration documents to prove their status and rights in the UK, will be asked to take action to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa.

This process launched in April 2024, with BRP holders emailed directly with instructions on how to create UKVI account to access their eVisa. These email invitations are being sent in phases, before the service is made available to all BRP holders in the summer. BRP holders who have not yet received an email should not worry as the process will soon be opened to all without an invitation, and there is no need to contact the Home Office in the meantime.

As we rollout the online process for BRP holders to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa we will send emails to BRP holders when they are able to take action. BRP holders who have not yet received email instructions but have been made aware of the process by friends, family or online forums may find the process does not yet work for them. There is no need to contact the Home Office in this case as the online process will be open for all BRP holders in summer 2024 at www.gov.uk/evisa .

Holders of other physical immigration documents, such as a passport containing ink stamps or vignette visa stickers, or BRCs can take steps to acquire an eVisa now, and further instructions are available at www.gov.uk/evisa .

Will this impact British citizens?

British passport holders and Irish citizens, including those who previously held an immigration status but have since acquired British citizenship, do not need to do anything. British citizens who do not have a British passport because they are dual nationals (excluding Irish passport holders) may need to take action in future regarding how they prove their right of abode. Updates on this will be provided in due course.

Will the Home Office be communicating about eVisas?

A comprehensive range of communications activity on the implementation of eVisas is underway and will be delivered throughout 2024.

This includes a range of direct emails which will be sent, in phases, to BRP holders with instructions on how to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. We are also proactively engaging with a wide range of targeted stakeholders to engage those impacted by the move to eVisas, and have developed a range of partner pack content (see above) to equip them to communicate widely about eVisa changes.

We will also be using official communication channels, including videos and regularly updated content on gov.uk to communicate these changes.

What is a UKVI account? How is it different to an eVisa?

A UKVI account is a secure way for customers to log into online services such as view and prove, whereas an eVisa is an electronic record of a person’s immigration status.

Using their UKVI account, customers can view their eVisa and share the relevant information via the online view and prove service, by generating a share code, which provides time-limited access to the relevant data. A person can have a UKVI account but no eVisa, for example, where the application for permission to stay in the UK was refused or expired.

A customer can also update personal details such as address and contact details in their UKVI account. This service is free, unlike updating physical immigration documents for which customers may be charged. This service is available at: www.update-your-UK-Visas-and-immigration-account-details .

The UKVI account is currently created automatically for everyone who uses the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check mobile App’ to make an immigration application.

Customers who already hold a physical document will need to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa and to be able to use the full range of online services.

As physical documents that evidence immigration status expire, the view and prove service, accessed via the UKVI account, will be the way people can view and prove their immigration status and associated rights in the UK.

Can you still use a physical document if it expires, and you don’t get an eVisa?

The expiry of a physical document, for example, a BRP card, does not affect a customer’s immigration status. However, how they prove their status will change from 2025. Customers will have to use our online services to prove their rights in the UK and to do so they will need to create a UKVI account.

What do customers need to do if they hold a BRP that expires at the end of 2024?

Customers who have a BRP and are living in the UK will need to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa unless their immigration leave expires before 31 December 2024. From April 2024, BRP holders are being emailed directly with instructions on how to do this. These email invitations are being sent in phases, before the service is made available to all BRP holders in the summer. BRP holders who have not yet received an email should not worry as the process will soon be opened to all without an invitation, and there is no need to contact the Home Office in the meantime. BRP holders should visit www.gov.uk/evisa for the latest information.

For now, customers should continue to use their BRP as they have previously and visit www.gov.uk/evisa for updates. This includes taking their BRP with them when they travel internationally.

The expiry of their BRP card does not affect their immigration status. However, how they prove their status will change from 2025.

Customers who already have an eVisa (a digital immigration status) as well as a BRP, will not need to create a UKVI account, as they already have one. Customers can find out if they already have a UKVI account by checking the email or letter that they were given when they were granted immigration status in the UK or go to www.gov.uk/evisa for further information.

Should customers whose BRP expires on 31 Dec 2024 before their immigration leave is due to expire, apply now to renew their BRP?

No, customers should not apply to renew their BRP, as all BRPs issued to customers who hold immigration leave beyond 2024, including renewals, are due to expire on 31 Dec 2024 and will be replaced by the eVisa.

What should customers do if they’ve lost their BRP?

If a customer has lost their valid BRP then they should apply for a replacement in the usual way. As with all BRPs, if their leave extends beyond the end of 2024, their replacement BRP will expire on 31 December 2024, and they will need to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa to prove their rights.

Once you have received your replacement then you should visit www.gov.uk/evisa for details of how to create a UKVI account and access your eVisa.

If a customer has a BRP but it expires before the end of 2024 what do, they need to do?

If a customer’s BRP expires before 31 Dec 2024 then their immigration leave may also expire at that point. If it does, and if they plan to remain in the UK then they should make a visa renewal application in the usual way.

Will a BRP holder be able to use an expired BRP to generate a share code after it has expired but while they still have immigration leave?

How a customer proves their status will change from 2025 and they should take action to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa before their BRP expires.

Information on what steps a BRP holder will need to take to create a UKVI account and access their eVisa is available at www.gov.uk/evisa .

We would encourage all BRP holders to create an account and access their eVisa as soon as it is possible for them to do so. Where individuals have not created an account before their BRP expires at the end of 2024, we will put in place mechanisms to ensure they are still able to prove their rights while they create an account. Holders of expired BRPs will still be able to use these to create an account.

BRP holders should take steps to create a UKVI account and access their eVisa before it expires to prevent any unnecessary delays in proving their rights.

What do legacy paper document holders need to do to evidence their rights in the UK – and what do they need to do to get an eVisa?

Customers who have indefinite leave to enter or indefinite leave to remain and prove their rights using a passport containing an ink stamp or vignette visa sticker or use another type of legacy paper document should make a ‘No Time Limit’ application.

As part of the application process customers may need to travel to a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services Centre (known as a UKVCAS) to provide a photograph, and in some cases provide fingerprints.

Once an application has been processed successful No Time Limit applicants will be issued with a biometric residence permit (BRP), which can then be used to prove the customer's rights and to create a UKVI account.

By the end of 2024 No Time Limit applicants will receive an eVisa, rather than a BRP. Further updates on this change will be available in due course.

It is free to make a No Time Limit application, and information on how to do so is available at http://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits/replace-visa-brp

Why do holders of legacy documents such as passports containing ink stamps or vignette visa stickers need to get an eVisa?

The border and immigration system is becoming ‘digital by default’, a change that will enhance the customer experience, deliver excellent value, and increase the immigration system’s security and efficiency. This move also reflects a broader societal move towards a digital approach.

The phasing out of legacy documents, such as passports containing ink stamps or a vignette visa sticker, is a key part of this process, but will bring a range of benefits to customers. This includes the fact that an eVisa cannot be lost or damaged, like a vignette, and there is no need for a potentially costly replacement.

Customers who replace their legacy document with an eVisa will benefit from the automated access that public bodies, including the Department for Work and Pensions and the National Health Service in England and Wales will securely have to their immigration status, which will streamline access to key services.

Creating a UKVI account to access an eVisa will also help to prevent unnecessary delays when travelling internationally (if travelling on the document linked to the UKVI account).

If legacy document holders do not acquire an eVisa by 2025, then they may experience challenges and delays in proving their rights and when travelling internationally.

What do eVisas mean for international travel?

Customers should continue to carry their in-date physical immigration documents with them when they travel internationally. Customers who already have an eVisa should tell the Home Office about any travel document on which they intend to travel using the Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details’ service at www.gov.uk/update-uk-visas-immigration-account-details .‘ if this is not already linked to their account.

During 2024, the Home Office is taking steps to allow carriers, including transport operators such as airlines, ferry, and international train operators, to securely and automatically access the immigration status of passengers travelling on their services when they present their travel document which is linked to their UKVI account.

This will automate the existing routine checks completed whenever a passenger presents their travel document when travelling internationally. This will provide a more convenient customer journey, and enhanced border security.

While the UK government is delivering a digital border and immigration system including plans to trial contactless entry using facial recognition only, there are no current plans to replace physical passports with digital equivalents.

Will all international carriers have automatic access to immigration details? Or will it just be airlines?

From later this year, carriers operating across air, rail & sea will be able to securely access passenger immigration information. Further updates will be provided in due course.

Is there help and support for vulnerable groups?

We are developing our digital products and services for use by all, including vulnerable users.

Customers can contact the UK Visas and Immigration Contact Centre, which provides telephone and email support to those using the online immigration status services.

This includes supporting users through the online journey by:

helping them to access or recover their account.
helping them to update their personal details.
sharing status on behalf of individuals if they are unable to do so themselves.

The UK Visas and Immigration Contact Centre will also be able to assist users who are experiencing technical issues with their online immigration status, and where necessary, enable individuals’ status to be verified through alternative means.

Individuals can nominate a ‘helper’ and give them limited access to their account, so that they can assist with creating a UKVI account, completing details to access an eVisa, and with any immigration application. Where a person is unable to manage their own affairs due to, for example, age or disability, a ‘proxy’, who is authorised, can create and manage the account on behalf of the person.

Our Assisted Digital service is also available to provide individual support by phone and email to individuals who require assistance with IT-related aspects of creating a UKVI account.

Additionally, we work collaboratively with a range of third-party stakeholders on the move to eVisas. Many of these organisations offer support to individuals requiring assistance in creating a UKVI account and accessing their eVisa.

We are exploring options to provide additional eVisa support and will provide further updates in due course.

What support is there for those who are digitally excluded?

Assisted Digital is a free service provided by UKVI to support customers in the UK who are digitally excluded to create a UKVI account and access their eVisa. Customers are classified as being digitally excluded if they have access needs or if they have low or no digital skills.

Access needs can include any disability that requires support to use online services, a lack of device or a lack of internet access.

Will children be impacted by the move to eVisas?

In the case of children, the expectation is that their parent or guardian will have access to their UKVI account and use the online services on their behalf, as they would have looked after and used a BRP/C on the child’s behalf. They can subsequently transfer ownership of the account and access to the online services when the child reaches majority.

Parents and guardians can create a UKVI account for their children at the same time they create an account for themselves.

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

PDF Example Letter of Invitation for Friends/Family Visiting You in The Uk
evidence, e.g. tenancy agreement/letter from landlord]. My address is: [Your address] If your visitor/s will be staying in a hostel or hotel during their stay, include the paragraph below: I confirm that [full name of visitor/s] will be staying at [hostel/hotel name] during their stay in Salford/Manchester. I have enclosed evidence of the booking.
Visiting the UK: guide to supporting documents
1. Travel document (passport) You must provide a valid passport or other travel document with all applications and when travelling to the UK. Your passport must have at least 1 page blank if you ...
Writing a Letter of Invitation for UK Visa
If you will be including extra supporting documents, do not forget to mention that in the letter. [Your address in the UK] [Date] Dear Sir / Madam. Application for Family Visitor visa: [Name of family member] I would like to invite my [type of family member, e.g. mother, father, etc] to visit me in the United Kingdom.
How to Write a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa + Sample
A letter of invitation (also known as a sponsorship letter or sponsor letter) is a letter written by a UK-based sponsor to support a friend, family member, or partner's UK visitor visa application. This is usually because you will need to demonstrate that you have ties to the visa applicant in question and that you will be able to support or ...
How to write a Letter of Invitation for a UK visitor visa Application
Tips for writing a Successful UK visitor visa invitation letter. Use a formal tone and professional format: The invitation letter should be written in a formal tone, using proper grammar and spelling. It should also be formatted with a clear structure and layout.
A guide to writing a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visitor Visa
The Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa, also known as a Sponsorship Letter for a UK Visa and as a Sponsor Letter, allows an individual to sponsor their friend, partner, or family member to come to the UK as part of their Standard Visitor Visa application. Please note that the letter does not guarantee entry into the UK, as the applicant for the visa must also meet other requirements.
Inviting friends and family to come visit you in the UK
A letter of invitation will strengthen their application, giving it a better case for approval. I'm sharing the template I use; download the letter of invitation in support of a visitor visa application here. The template has placeholders for all the information noted above, and guidance on how to fill-out and print the document.
Letter Templates for UK Visitor Visa Applications
Letter Templates to support your UK Visitor Visa Application. Invitation/Sponsor Letter Templates for Visitor Visas. A UK visitor visa invitation letter should usually be provided when coming to visit family or friends in the UK, to provide information about the planned visit, such as the purpose of the visit, the length of the stay, who will be funding the trip, and where they will be staying.
PDF Standard Visitor visa for friends and family visiting the UK
of any visa application to the UK. They will be able to select an appointment date at the end of the on-line application process. Sending their documents ... a letter of invitation from you stating your address in the UK, your relationship with your visitor, the purpose of the visit, the dates of the visit and the details of where ...
Letter of Invitation for friends and family to visit the UK
0777 6569 777. To apply for a UK visa it is required that the applicant submits an invitation letter. A letter of invitation for a UK visa is a letter written by a citizen or legal resident of the United Kingdom, addressed to a foreigner with whom they have family ties or friendship, inviting them to stay over at their house.
How to Write a Invitation Letter for UK Visa?
A letter of invitation is not a requirement for a Standard Visitor Visa, but it can help to strengthen an application and reduce the chance of scrutiny at the border. To avoid a trip being cancelled at the last minute because you are unable to gain entry clearance to the UK, you might consider securing a letter of invitation.
What Letters do I need to include with my UK Visa Application?
Visa Applications this relates to: Visitor Visas. A letter of invitation (also referred to as an invitation letter or sponsorship letter) is usually required for visitor visa applications when: The Applicant (s) will be visiting and/or staying in the UK with family, friends or partners. The Applicant (s) needs to carry out activities relating ...
How to apply for a visa to come to the UK
If you want to visit the UK. Apply for a Standard Visitor visa to visit the UK for up to 6 months. For example: for a holiday or to see family and friends. for a business trip or meeting. to do a ...
Letter of Invitation for Friends and Family to Visit the UK
Step II. If you do not know where to start writing a letter of invitation for a UK visa, write the following information in a list: Your full name. Your date of birth. Your full address and telephone number in the United Kingdom. Your occupation. Your status in the United Kingdom. Visitor's full name. Visitor's date of birth.
PDF Standard Visitor Visa for friends and family visiting the UK
your return flight out of the UK. Making the application You will need to make your application online via Access UK. If you are from North Korea you will have to make a paper based application. You apply online using the following link: https://visas-immigration.service.gov.uk/visa-type When you apply you will need to do the following:
How to Write an Invitation Letter for UK Visa?
Date of Writing the Letter. Application for visitor visa for *name of the applicant*. Dear sir/madam, This is a letter of invitation for *name of the visitor and their date of birth* to come to the United Kingdom and stay with me *author's name and date of birth*. They will stay with me for *planned duration* at *address* from *starting date ...
UK Visa Invitation Letter in 2024 [Sample, Template & Tips on How To
Comprehensive guide on UK visa invitation letters for 2024: Understand the requirements, benefits, and essential documents needed when inviting someone to the UK for a visit. Whether for business, family, or tourism, ensure a smooth application process with this detailed overview.
Writing an Invitation Letter for a Visa Application
Letter of Invitation for [Visitor's Name]: Passport No:XXX77777. Dear Sir/Madam. I am writing this letter to support the visitor visa application for [Visitor's Name]. She / he is fully resident in [country], and is my [relationship]. She / he lives at [Visitor's Address] and their home phone number is (YY)XXXXXXX.
Inviting a visitor to the UK
If possible, you should write a letter of invitation for your visitor to provide with their application. Address the letter to the Entry Clearance Officer at the embassy/ high commission where your visitor is applying for their visa. You will need to include these details: Your visitor's full name and date of birth.
How to Write an Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa + Sample
AN letter of invitation (also known as a ad letter or sponsor letter) is a briefe written by a UK-based sponsor to back a friend, family element, or partner's UK visitor visa application. This are common because you will need to demonstrate this you have fastener to this visa applicant in question and which you will be competent the support ...
How to apply for a visa to come to the UK
You'll get a letter or an email explaining why your application was refused. Your passport will be returned, if it was kept as part of your application. Your refusal letter will explain if you ...
UK Cover Letter for Visa Application
Cover Letter for UK Visa Application Sample. Here is a simple sample you can refer to when writing your cover letter: My name is Stojan Nikola (passport number: NM22330011). I am a Macedonian citizen who lives in Skopje, Macedonia, where I work as a graphic designer and have an income of DEN 50,000.
NeurIPS 2024 Visa Information
Generate your visa Invitation letter; Submit your Canadian Visa Application. See the details below. Return to the visa invitation letter page and enter your legal name, the country that issued your passport, and your Canadian visa application number. Failure to complete this step may impact your ability to enter Canada.
Media factsheet: eVisas
Overview . eVisas are a key part of delivering a border and immigration system which will be 'digital by default' by 2025. This process is already underway, and millions of people in the UK who applied for their visa through the EU Settlement Scheme or used the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app already have an eVisa (digital proof of their immigration status).

How to Write a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa

What is a Letter of Invitation?

What Are the Requirements for a Letter of Invitation?

Who Should the Letter of Invitation be Addressed To?

What Information Should be Included in the Letter of Invitation?

Additional Information to be Included in the Letter of Invitation

What Supporting Documents Should be Included with the Letter of Invitation?

Sample Letter of Invitation

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A guide to writing a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visitor Visa

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What Letters do I need to include with my UK Visa Application?

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