sample cover letter for citizenship application uk

Cover Letter for UK Citizenship Application (Naturalisation, Non-EEA)

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🖊️ Covering letter

A covering letter is a formal document that accompanies a submission to a journal, conference, or other publication. The covering letter should outline the motivation for the submission and the contributions of the work. The covering letter also provides a venue for the authors to declare any potential conflicts of interest.

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Naturalisation based on five years' residence in UK (03): cover letter to UKVI

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Writing a covering letter to the Home Office

When you send an application to the home office, it is good to write a covering letter to send with it. in this letter, you can write down what kind of application you are making, which documents you are sending with it and why you think you meet the requirements set out in the rules. we recommend that any letters sent to the home office should be sent by recorded delivery. if you are sending important original documents, these should be sent by special delivery..

What you will need to include in this letter will depend on your individual case. However, below is a template with some ideas.  You can also download this template as a word document here .

Home Office address (in full)                                                                   Your address (in full)

Date: insert

Home Office Reference: insert

Recorded delivery reference: insert

Dear Sir/Madam, Your name, date of birth and nationality

Name, date of birth and nationality of each dependant

Repeat the Home Office Reference

I wish to make an application for [insert type of leave you wish to apply for and which rule/policy you are applying under].

[List the documents you are sending with the application. This helps to show the type of evidence you have to support your case.]

I enclose the following:

• Application form;
• Original, valid passport (number [insert] )
• Witness statement dated [insert date];

[List everything else you have enclosed]

Fees / Fee waiver / Fee exempt

[If you are applying for a fee waiver ( see here for our fact sheet for further information ) you need to completed and enclose the fee waiver application form along with your application for leave to remain. You should also explain how you meet the requirements for a fee waiver or why you are fee exempt here.]

[Include information about your/your family’s immigration history. You should explain why you are seeking to apply for/extend your leave to remain. If there are any compassionate aspects of your case (e.g. mental health problems/abuse or neglect/bereavement) it is important to explain them here.]

[Set out the rule/policy you are applying under and write underneath how you meet the rule. FOR EXAMPLE (please note that this is an example only, DO NOT just copy this because you will need to identify which rule applies to your case and include information specific to you):

Paragraph 276ADE. The requirements to be met by an applicant for leave to remain on the grounds of private life in the UK are that at the date of application, the applicant:

(i) does not fall for refusal under any of the grounds in Section S-LTR 1.2 to S-LTR 2.3. and S-LTR.3.1. in Appendix FM; and

I have no previous convictions and I am of good character. I do not fall within any of the exclusions.

 (iv) is under the age of 18 years and has lived continuously in the UK for at least 7 years (discounting any period of imprisonment) and it would not be reasonable to expect the applicant to leave the UK; or

I am 17 years old and I have lived in the UK since I was 9 years old. It would not be reasonable for me to leave the UK because I have lived here for a very long time. I have been to primary and secondary school here in the UK. As I have explained in my witness statement, I do not know anyone in [the country of your nationality] and all of my friends and family are here…]

[ Please see here for our fact sheets which   provide further information about some of the rules and policies.]

The best interests of child[ren]

[Explain here why it would be in the best interests of your child for you/them to remain in the UK. If you have any evidence to support this (e.g. letters from teachers, doctors or nurses), then refer to the evidence here. Refer to the Home Office’s obligation to ‘have regard to the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of children’ and to their duty to consider children’s best interests as a primary consideration.]

[ Please see here for our fact sheet about children’s best interests.]

Rights under Article 8 ECHR

[Explain why it would breach your rights/your family’s rights under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (right to respect for private and family life) if you/your family were removed from the UK.]

[ Please see here for our fact sheets  about rights under Article 8. ]

[If you make an application on the basis of your human rights protected by Article 8 ECHR and it is refused, you may not get an in-country right of appeal if the Home Office decides that your case is ‘clearly unfounded’. This means that your case clearly does not meet the rules/ policy and is bound to fail. If you are not given an in-country right of appeal, you have to leave the UK and appeal the refusal from somewhere else. The Home Office has stated that this should not apply if your application relies on a British child, a child who has lived in the UK for at least seven years, or if there are exceptional circumstances which mean that family life cannot continue outside of the UK or that it is in a child’s best interest to remain in the UK. An application based on Article 8 ECHR should not be certified if you are extending your leave to remain. If you are concerned that your case may be certified as clearly unfounded, you should set out why you should be granted an in-country right of appeal if your application is refused here.]

Access to public funds

[Even if you are granted leave to remain, you will normally not be allowed to access public funds. For some types of leave (for example, if you are applying on the basis of your family or private life on the ’10 year route to settlement’), you can ask to be given access to public funds. If you already have leave to remain and you are applying to extend it, and you currently have access to public funds, you will need to explain that you still need public funds for your next grant of leave. If you are granted leave without access to public funds, and you need to apply for access, please see here for further information . You will need to provide evidence of why you need access to public funds and you should explain how you meet the requirements here.]

[Explain why you believe you/your family should be granted leave to remain in the UK. Emphasise any compassionate circumstances and request that the application is considered as soon as possible.]

Yours faithfully,

Your signature

For more help with making your own application,  click here .

Has this information helped you? Please tell us what you think by clicking here .

Cover Letter for UK Citizenship Application (Naturalisation, Non-EEA)

When to use this template

The legal template titled "Cover Letter for UK Citizenship Application (Naturalisation, Non-EEA) under UK law" is a document designed to assist individuals in drafting an effective cover letter when submitting an application for UK citizenship. It specifically caters to individuals who are seeking naturalisation and belong to non-EEA (European Economic Area) countries.

This legal template provides a framework that guides applicants on the essential elements to include in their cover letters. These elements may involve details such as personal information, residence history, employment details, education qualifications, and any other relevant background information required by the UK authorities. The template ensures that applicants convey their motivations, reasons, and eligibility for obtaining British citizenship in a clear and concise manner.

It is crucial for the cover letter to adhere to UK immigration laws and regulations, making this legal template an invaluable tool in assisting applicants in maintaining compliance throughout the application process. By using this template, applicants can create a professional and tailored cover letter that highlights their commitment to the UK and satisfies the requirements set forth by the Home Office.

Ultimately, the "Cover Letter for UK Citizenship Application (Naturalisation, Non-EEA) under UK law" legal template serves as a comprehensive and structured guide that aids individuals in presenting a compelling case for their desire to acquire UK citizenship, increasing their chances of a successful application outcome.

Key issues covered in this template

• Biometric Residence Permit
• English proficiency
• Medical exemption
• Payment received

What to watch out for

This standard document can form the basis of the covering letter from a legal representative to the Home Office when submitting an application for naturalisation as a British citizen based on the applicant's marriage to or civil partnership with a British citizen

This letter should not be used by EEA nationals

The Genie Team consists of lawyers and paralegals. Our aim is to open source the law and provide high quality, regularly reviewed legal documents.

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A cover letter for an immigration application is an important document that explains all the relevant information, requirements, and documents related to your UK visa and immigration application. Our specialist team of immigration solicitors can prepare a detailed cover letter supporting your UK visa and immigration application to show how you meet the relevant requirements of the UK immigration laws for your application to be successful. 

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The cover letter our immigration solicitors and lawyers prepare in support of your immigration application may contain the following:

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Naturalisation Cover letter

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Refugee with ILR applying for naturalization

Post by artsy » Wed Dec 16, 2020 7:04 pm

Re: Refugee with ILR applying for naturalization

Post by CULLINAN » Wed Dec 16, 2020 7:11 pm

artsy wrote: ↑ Wed Dec 16, 2020 7:04 pm Hi I came to the UK on student visa and then applied for asylum, now it's about 12 months after my ILR and I'm applying for naturalisation. I have 2 Qs regarding the previous immigration applications, Do the applications for Travel document and work permission count? Count where? To list in previous UK immigration applications? Aslo. in my previous application for Travel document I forgot to include an application I made 10 years ago and I had no issue, should I include it in the naturalisation app? What application you made 10 years ago that you forgot? I appreciate your help.

Post by artsy » Wed Dec 16, 2020 8:38 pm

CULLINAN wrote: ↑ Wed Dec 16, 2020 7:11 pm artsy wrote: ↑ Wed Dec 16, 2020 7:04 pm Hi I came to the UK on student visa and then applied for asylum, now it's about 12 months after my ILR and I'm applying for naturalisation. I have 2 Qs regarding the previous immigration applications, Do the applications for Travel document and work permission count? Count where? To list in previous UK immigration applications? To clarify, should I list travel document applications as previous immigration applications? Aslo. in my previous application for Travel document I forgot to include an application I made 10 years ago and I had no issue, should I include it in the naturalisation app? What application you made 10 years ago that you forgot? A Tier 4 application that was refused I appreciate your help.

Post by CULLINAN » Wed Dec 16, 2020 8:57 pm

Post by artsy » Wed Dec 16, 2020 10:42 pm

Post by CULLINAN » Wed Dec 16, 2020 10:44 pm

artsy wrote: ↑ Wed Dec 16, 2020 10:42 pm Thanks very much, I appreciate your help.

Post by artsy » Fri Dec 18, 2020 10:24 pm

CULLINAN wrote: ↑ Wed Dec 16, 2020 10:44 pm artsy wrote: ↑ Wed Dec 16, 2020 10:42 pm Thanks very much, I appreciate your help.

Post by CULLINAN » Fri Dec 18, 2020 10:46 pm

Post by artsy » Sat Dec 19, 2020 9:59 pm

CULLINAN wrote: ↑ Fri Dec 18, 2020 10:46 pm Do you have Home Office Travel Document or not? What are the issue and expiry dates of HOTD’s in the last 5 years?

Post by CULLINAN » Sat Dec 19, 2020 10:23 pm

You must not normally accept doctors' letters on their own as proof of residence. However, if nothing else is available and the doctors can confirm that they have seen the applicant on a regular basis during the period concerned these may be accepted. If there are gaps in a person’s evidence of residence and it is clear from the information available that they could not have travelled, you must accept this. Examples of this might include a refugee who has no means of travel or where immigration records confirm continuous residence.

The following can be used as evidence of residence: • passports or travel documents which have been stamped to show arrival in the UK and entry and departure from other countries: o these should be checked against the list of absences provided on the application form • Home Office records

Post by artsy » Sat Dec 19, 2020 11:00 pm

CULLINAN wrote: ↑ Sat Dec 19, 2020 10:23 pm Your HOTD’s stamps covering last 5 years are enough. You do not need anything else to prove your continuous residency. Also add/giver reference to the following guidance in the cover letter. You must not normally accept doctors' letters on their own as proof of residence. However, if nothing else is available and the doctors can confirm that they have seen the applicant on a regular basis during the period concerned these may be accepted. If there are gaps in a person’s evidence of residence and it is clear from the information available that they could not have travelled, you must accept this. Examples of this might include a refugee who has no means of travel or where immigration records confirm continuous residence.

Post by CULLINAN » Sat Dec 19, 2020 11:04 pm

Post by artsy » Sun Dec 20, 2020 6:35 pm

CULLINAN wrote: ↑ Sat Dec 19, 2020 11:04 pm 1) Answer: No 2) ILR BRP copy

Post by artsy » Fri Jan 08, 2021 7:30 pm

Post by CR001 » Fri Jan 08, 2021 7:32 pm

artsy wrote: ↑ Fri Jan 08, 2021 7:30 pm Hi Thanks for your help so far, do you know what is the tax office number? is it the tax code or payroll number? Much appreciated

Post by artsy » Fri Jan 08, 2021 7:41 pm

Post by CULLINAN » Fri Jan 08, 2021 7:42 pm

Post by artsy » Fri Jan 08, 2021 7:52 pm

Post by artsy » Fri Jan 08, 2021 11:51 pm

Post by CULLINAN » Sat Jan 09, 2021 12:11 am

Post by artsy » Sat Jan 09, 2021 1:36 am

Post by artsy » Sat Jan 23, 2021 10:49 am

Re: Naturalisation Cover letter

Post by alterhase58 » Sat Jan 23, 2021 12:34 pm

Post by artsy » Sun Jan 24, 2021 8:07 pm

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Applying for British citizenship

This advice applies to England. See advice for See advice for Northern Ireland , See advice for Scotland , See advice for Wales

You should check if you’re eligible to apply for citizenship - there are different routes to apply.

Most adults who have migrated to the UK get citizenship by applying to ‘naturalise’.

Applying for citizenship takes time and you will not get your money back if your application is refused.

Check how much it costs to apply

You usually pay £1,630 to apply for adult citizenship or £1,214 for children. If you’re applying for citizenship as an adult you’ll also have to pay:

£50 to do the Life in the UK Test

around £150 if you have to do an English test

You will not get most of your money back if your application is refused - for example, if you’re not eligible or you sent the wrong documents.

You can find out more about the fees for citizenship applications on GOV.UK .

If you’re applying for a child and you can’t afford the fee

You can apply for a ‘fee waiver’. If you get a fee waiver, you will not have to pay the fee.

To apply for a fee waiver, you have to show you don’t have enough income and savings to pay for both the fee and essential costs like food and rent. You’ll need to send documents showing your income and spending for the last 6 months, for example your:

bank statements for all your accounts

tenancy agreement

utility bills

If social services give you money to help you look after your child, you’ll automatically get a fee waiver - you’ll need to send documents to prove this.

You can apply for a fee waiver on GOV.UK .

Check what you need to apply

Before you apply for citizenship, it’s worth preparing what you’ll need. 

When you apply for citizenship through naturalisation, you’ll need to: 

prove how long you’ve lived in the UK

pass the Life in the UK Test 

prove you understand English 

check you’re of ‘good character’ - this means showing you haven't recently broken the law or gone bankrupt

give the names of 2 people who can help prove your identity - these are called ‘referees’

If you're applying for citizenship for your child

You’ll need to make a separate application for your child. 

If your child is under 18 years old, you can apply to ‘register’ them as a British citizen. Registering is a way of applying for British citizenship. 

The application process is easier for children - they don't have to:

prove their knowledge of English 

do the citizenship ceremony

You can check if your child can get British citizenship and what form you should use .

Prove how long you’ve lived in the UK 

You usually need to prove how long you’ve lived in the UK - this is called the ‘residency requirement’.  

You need to prove your residency even if you've done it before - for example, by applying for 'settled status'. 

The length of time you need to prove will depend on your situation.

These are the steps you should follow:

1. Work out when you were in the UK

You should work out exactly when you were in the UK during the last: 

3 years if you’re married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen 

5 years if you’re not married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen

To help with this, you could make a list of the dates you travelled outside the UK by:

checking old calendars

checking travel bookings

looking for exit and entry dates stamped in your passport

You also need to make sure you were in the UK on the same day 3 or 5 years ago as the day you’re applying. If you weren’t in the UK exactly 3 or 5 years ago, it’s usually best to wait until it’s been 3 or 5 years since the date you returned to the UK and then apply. If you were out of the UK for a long time, talk to an adviser .

2. Check what absences from the UK are allowed 

You should check how many days you were outside the UK - if it's over the limit you might be refused. You'll need to separately count these for the:

3 or 5 years you’re providing evidence for in your application 

12 months before you apply

You can be out of the UK for up to 90 days in the year before you apply. If you were away for longer, you could delay applying. This would mean your absence is counted in the 3 or 5 years you’re using in your residence requirement. 

3. Check you have the evidence to show you were in the UK 

You’ll need to give the Home Office your current passport and old passports that cover the time you’ve been in the country. If you have any entry and exit stamps in your passport, check they match the dates you’ve said you were in and out of the country on your application.

Check if your passport has an entry stamp for when you first entered the UK. You might not have one if for example you’re an EU citizen.

If you don’t have a passport with an entry stamp, you’ll need other evidence to show you were in the UK, for example:

payslips and P60s

a letter from your employer or education provider with start and end dates

a letter from a benefits provider like the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) showing when you got benefits

You might also be able to use other evidence, like household bills.

If you don’t have a passport or travel documents because you’re a refugee, the Home Office should accept that you didn’t leave the UK after you arrived.

Pass the Life in the UK Test 

You need to pass the Life in the UK Test before you apply for citizenship. 

The test asks questions about UK laws and the legal system, working and other details of life in the UK. 

You can do the test any time before you apply.

Check if you need to do the test 

You don’t need to pass the Life in the UK Test if:

you’ve already passed it - for example, if you took the test when you applied for 'indefinite leave to remain' 

you’re under 18 or over 65 years old

If you’re aged 60 to 64 and can show you’re unlikely to pass the test before you turn 65, the Home Office might agree you don’t have to do the test. For example, if you're receiving medical treatment for a serious illness.

If you have a physical or mental condition that stops you passing the test, you might not have to do it. You'll need to ask your doctor to confirm that your condition:

is unlikely to change

makes it impossible for you to pass the test - for example, a learning disability or brain injury that stops you remembering facts

You can get a form for your doctor to fill in on GOV.UK. 

Doing the test 

You can do the test as many times as you need to - but you have to pay a fee each time. 

You need to study the official handbook to pass the test. You can also buy an app to practise - search for the official Life in the UK Test app by TSO (The Stationery Office). 

Some colleges offer short courses to help prepare for the test. You'll have to pay a fee to attend.

You can book the Life in the UK Test and buy the official handbook on GOV.UK.

Prove you understand English

You need to prove you understand English, Welsh or Scottish Gaelic before you can apply for citizenship. 

Check if you need to prove you understand English

You don’t need to prove you understand English if:

you’re from a country that’s exempt - check which nationalities don't have to prove they understand English on GOV.UK

you have a degree that was taught or researched in English - check how to show your degree was in English on GOV.UK

If you’re aged 60 to 64 and can show you’re unlikely to learn English before you turn 65, the Home Office might agree you don’t have to prove your knowledge of English. For example, if you're receiving medical treatment for a serious illness.

makes it impossible for you to learn English - for example, a learning disability or brain injury that stops you learning the language 

You can get a form for your doctor to fill in on GOV.UK.

Proving you understand English

You'll need to pass a speaking and listening test at an approved centre - you can find a secure English language test provider on GOV.UK.

The test costs around £150. Tests are usually valid for 2 years - if you’ve already done a test, you can check your English language test is still valid on GOV.UK. 

Check you’re of good character 

You usually need to prove you’re of good character before you can apply for citizenship. 

The Home Office look at a range of things to decide this.

For example, the Home Office might decide you’re not eligible if you have:

unpaid taxes in the UK

an NHS debt 

been declared bankrupt

a criminal record

broken a condition of your leave in the last 10 years - for example working or claiming public funds without permission

If you have any points on your driving licence, you must print a summary of your record from the DVLA website and include it with your application.

You should say if you've received any fixed penalty notices in your application. Your good character won't be affected, as long as you've paid them.

It’s important to be honest and include anything that’s relevant to your application - for example, a criminal conviction. If the Home Office finds you've left something out, they might refuse to accept your application.

If you think you’ll have problems with proving you are of good character, you should talk to an adviser before you apply.

Provide 2 referees

You’ll need to give the names of 2 referees on your application. These are people who know you and can help prove your identity. 

Both of your referees should have known you personally for more than 3 years. They must not be: 

your relative

your solicitor or agent 

employed by the Home Office 

They can't be a referee if they've had a criminal conviction in the last 10 years, unless a certain period of time has passed. This is called the ‘rehabilitation period’. For example, the rehabilitation period for a fine is 1 year. You can find the rehabilitation periods on GOV.UK.  

Your referees should include: 

a person who has 'professional standing' - for example, a civil servant of any nationality

a person who is a British passport holder and either has professional standing or is over the age of 25

The Home Office has a list of people they accept as referees - they’re called ‘acceptable professional persons’. 

Before you apply, check the list and the rest of the rules for referees in the nationality guidance on GOV.UK. The list of who can be a referee is under 'Commonly used terms'.

Check your application carefully

It’s important to check you have the right information and documents before you apply. If something is missing or wrong, the Home Office can refuse to accept your application and you will not get your money back.

If the Home Office decide you lied on your application, they might stop you applying again for 10 years.

If you need help preparing your application 

You should talk to an adviser if you need help with completing your application or providing evidence. 

How to apply 

You can usually apply for citizenship online or by post. 

If you’re from the Channel Islands, Isle of Man or a British Overseas territory, you must apply by post.

It's a good idea to send your paper application by recorded delivery, so you can make sure it's delivered.

Find out more about applying if you’re married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen on GOV.UK. 

If you're not married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, the way you apply will depend on your current immigration status. You can find out how to:

apply if you have indefinite leave to remain or settled status on GOV.UK

apply if you have permanent residence status on GOV.UK

Submit your documents 

If you’ve applied on a paper form, you’ll need to submit your documents - for example, send your passport with your application.  

If you’ve applied online, you can scan your documents and upload them to your online application - you don’t have to physically send them to the Home Office. 

It’s a good idea to download or print a copy of your finished application for your records.

Book your biometric appointment 

You’ll usually get an email asking you to book an appointment to have your photograph and fingerprints taken. These are called your ‘biometric information’.

You’ll need to book an appointment on the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service website .

You can check what to bring and if anyone needs to go with you on GOV.UK .

After you’ve applied 

You need to tell the Home Office if you change your personal details during this time. For example, if you change your address. 

The amount of time you wait for the Home Office’s decision will not affect your existing rights in the UK - for example, you can continue to work or claim benefits.

The Home Office will write to you if they need more details about your application. You should reply within 2 weeks if you can. If the Home Office doesn't hear from you by then, they might make a decision on your application based on the information they already have.

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will try to make a decision about your application within 6 months, but it might take longer. If you’re worried about a delay, you can:

contact UKVI to check if there’s a problem with your application - check how to contact UKVI on GOV.UK

make a complaint about the delay - check how to complain to UKVI on GOV.UK

Travelling outside the UK before you get British citizenship 

You can travel outside the UK if you’ve applied for British citizenship. You should make sure you can get emails and letters about your application while you’re away. 

Organise a citizenship ceremony 

If your application is successful, you must arrange a citizenship ceremony. These are usually held at your local council. Find out more about booking your citizenship ceremony on GOV.UK. 

Replace or correct a UK citizenship certificate 

You’ll have to pay a fee to replace or correct a UK citizenship certificate. Find out more about replacing or correcting your citizenship certificate on GOV.UK.

Travelling outside the UK after you get British citizenship 

If you want to travel outside the UK after getting British citizenship, you’ll need to apply for a British passport. 

Make sure the details on your current passport are the same as your citizenship certificate. For example, check your name is spelled the same. If any of the details are different, you will not get a British passport.

You can find out more about how to apply for a British passport on GOV.UK.

Register to vote 

Becoming a British citizen means you can vote in all elections or referendums. You can register to vote on GOV.UK. 

If your application is unsuccessful 

If your application is unsuccessful, the Home Office will write to you and tell you why. 

It will not affect your current right to stay in the UK.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

How to write a compelling cover letter for UK visa (that will impress the ECO)

Updated: September 6, 2023

A cover letter for UK visa is instrumental in persuading the ECO that you meet the visa requirements and have no intention of overstaying your visa. It gives you the opportunity to convince the ECO that you are a genuine visitor and you will promptly return back to your country.

A cover letter is a document to convey additional information that wasn’t asked in the UK visa application. It’s not a mandatory document but by far the most helpful document in increasing your chances of UK visa approval.

Table of Contents

Why do you need a cover letter for uk visa.

The information asked in the UK visa application isn’t enough to convince the ECO that you will return back to your home country after your trip. 

Most questions on the UK visa application are close-ended. They don’t give you an opportunity to explain. 

A cover letter allows you to explain in your own words and be as descriptive as you can. You can use your own format and even use illustrations if needed.

Is a cover letter mandatory for UK visa?

No. A cover letter is not mandatory for UK visa. It’s not even a document in the documents checklist for UK visa.

When I applied for my UK visa, I did not submit a cover letter. At that time, I didn’t know the importance of a cover letter for UK visa. I didn’t feel the need to explain anything additional, so I didn’t submit one. My visa was still approved. 

That’s not the case for everyone. A cover letter will not hurt your chances of approval, it can only help. It gives you an additional opportunity to convince the ECO. 

If I apply again for my UK visa, I would definitely submit a cover letter. 

What should you write in the cover letter?

A cover letter is not a mandatory document for UK visa. So obviously, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) does not provide any guidelines on what to include in the cover letter.

As you all know, I started this website in 2016. Since then, I have been helping my readers with their visas. I figured that a cover letter was the most helpful for UK visa. 

I have been writing cover letters for my readers. Over time, I learned that a cover letter with a certain format worked the best for UK visa. 

I would like to impart all my knowledge in this article, so you can write the most compelling cover letter for your UK visa. It will not only impress the ECO but will greatly improve your chances of visa approval.

So without any further delay, let’s get started. 

Format of the cover letter

The goal of the cover letter is to convince the ECO that you are a genuine visitor. You must do this in a simple, short and clear manner. ECOs rarely will have time for anything other than what’s asked.

Write your cover letter in simple words as if it’s meant for a 5th grader. If the language is too complicated to read, ECO will not bother to read it. 

Do not use words that people from your country can only understand. ECOs are from the UK and they can only understand the terms that they use in the UK. 

Example: It’s common for people in India to say something like “ please do the needful and revert back to me “. Even though it’s still understandable, saying something like “ please let me know if you need anything else from me ” will help the ECO understand better. 

Remember, a cover letter is not a mandatory document. ECO is doing you a favor by reading it. So, make it easy for the ECO.

Your cover letter should never be longer than two pages. ECOs rarely have time for things other than what’s asked in the application. If you present them with a booklet, they will toss it in the trash without even looking at it. 

Again remember, a cover letter is not mandatory. It should not consume too much of ECO’s time.

To further simplify your cover letter, format it with subheadings, bullets and highlights. This helps the ECO to quickly glance over the letter and read any section that interests them. 

Example:   Instead of writing like this – 

“ I intend to travel to the UK for tourism from 20 June 2021 to 24 June 2021 and I plan to visit various attractions in London such as Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, London Eye, Madame Tussauds, National Gallery, etc. “

Write like this – 

• I intend to travel to the UK for tourism. My travel dates are from 20 June 2021 to 27 June 2021. 
• 20 June 2021: Arrive at Heathrow International Airport at 3 PM. Check-In and dinner.
• 21 June 2021: Visit Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London
• 22 June 2021: Visit Tower Bridge and London Eye
• 23 June 2021: Visit Madame Tussauds and National Gallery
• 24 June 2021: Depart from Heathrow International Airport at 10 AM

Sections in the cover letter

It’s important to break the cover letter into different sections. This helps the ECO quickly glance through the letter and understand the gist of it. If needed, the ECO can read specific sections. Your cover letter for UK visa must contain the following sections.

Section 1: Your previous UK visa refusals

In the UK visa application, there is a question on previous UK visa refusals. It asks about your previous UK visa refusal and its details. This question asks you to explain why your UK visa was refused but doesn’t ask why it shouldn’t have been refused

There is no other place in the application to address your previous visa refusals either. There is the “additional/extra information” area, but it’s only for text and not suitable for formatting or pictures. Therefore, the cover letter is the most appropriate place for addressing your previous UK visa refusal. 

If you are re-applying to challenge your UK visa refusal , include a section in your cover letter specifically for your previous visa refusal. Address your previous visa refusal with evidence, additional information and documentation. 

Keep this section as the first section in your cover letter. Having this section at the beginning of the cover letter will help the new ECO get straight to the point. Otherwise, they may overlook and your efforts of re-application may go to waste.

Here is an example.

Previous UK Visa Refusal

My previous application for the UK visitor visa with GWF number GWF12345678 was refused on 16 March 2021. 

I would like to address the reason for the refusal with additional information and documentation.

Reason for refusal: The sources of the deposit (£850) were not demonstrated by the documents provided.

Explanation: The deposit in question was made on 05-Dec-2020 for the amount of £850. This amount was the yearly bonus from my employer. Yearly bonuses are deposited in the first week of December every year. Please find the attached documentation to prove that these funds are available to me.

Additional Documentation: (1) Bonus slip, (2) bonus announcement email and (3) letter from my employer with details of bonus, amount and dates.

Section 2: Your travel purpose and itinerary

In this section, mention your purpose of visit and proposed itinerary in the UK. The itinerary must be detailed enough but not too descriptive to confuse the ECO. Format it with bullets and/or a table.

Proposed Travel Itinerary

• I intend to travel to the UK for tourism for a total of 7 days. My travel dates are from 14 Oct 2021 to 20 Oct 2021.
• My planned day-by-day itinerary is as follows

Section 3: People traveling with you to the UK

In this section, mention the people that will travel with you to the UK. If you are applying for the visa with your family members, mention their details such as name, passport number and GWF number. 

Each individual must submit one UK visa application. Say if a husband, wife and child are traveling to the UK together, each of them must submit a separate UK visa application. There is no easy way to tie these applications together. 

There is a question in the application asking for travel companions, but mentioning them again in your cover letter will help tie them all together. 

Travel Companions

I will be traveling to the UK with my wife and son. The GWF numbers of my wife’s and son’s UK visa applications are as follows.

Section 4: Your current employment/business or university details

In this section, mention your current employment details. Include details such as the employer’s name, how long you have been working and your current salary.

Employment Details

• I currently work for Samcore Logistics, LTD, Dubai as a product manager.
• I have been working as a product manager at Samcore Logistics, LTD since Nov 2014.
• My monthly salary is 7,000 AED after taxes.
• An original letter from my employer, a leave approval letter and bank statements indicating the salary deposits are attached.

If you are a business owner, mention the details of your business such as your business name, your role in the company, yearly revenue, etc.

Business Details

• I own a construction business in Dubai since 2016. I’m the founder and president of the business.
• The business has been in positive cash flow since its inception with yearly revenue of 300,000 AED.
• A copy of my business registration, business license, bank statements and tax returns are attached.

If you are currently a student at the university, mention your university details along with the program, major and semester details.

University Details

• I’m a full-time student enrolled in the undergraduate program at the University of the Philippines.
• I’m currently in the second semester of my second year with another four semesters remaining to graduate.
• A letter from my university and the fee payment receipts are attached.

Section 5: Your current financial situation

In this section, mention your source of income, savings and the bank statements for your UK visa . 

If you have multiple bank accounts, this section is a good place to talk about it. Explain why you have multiple bank accounts and how they are connected.

Financial Solvency

• I currently have 300,000 INR (approx. 2,900 GBP) in my bank account.
• The source of my savings is my salary from my employer, WinTech Corporation.
• The last 6 months bank statements and payslips are attached.

It’s quite common for many to work in a foreign country and send all their earnings back home for family maintenance or savings. In such cases, you will have to submit bank statements from both countries, but most importantly, mention that clearly in this section.

If you use a broker or third party to send cash back home, errors can occur and transactions may not match. I highly recommend using a money transfer service such as Wise to transfer cash back to your home country.

Section 6: Your sponsorship information

If you are paying for your trip yourself, this section does not apply to you. Have this section in your cover letter only if someone else is paying for your trip. 

In this section, mention your sponsor details, your relationship with the sponsor, what expenses they will bear, etc. 

Sponsorship Details

• My brother is sponsoring my trip to the UK.
• He will bear all my travel expenses while I’m in the UK including accommodation, food and transportation.
• A letter from my brother, his UK residence permit, employment proofs, bank statements, his apartment lease contract and the document to prove our relationship are attached.

Section 7: Your travel history

In this section, mention your travel history. Travel history is very important and highlighting it will only help with your UK visa. Your travel history can include all your previous travels to the UK and other countries. If you have traveled to a country multiple times, mention that country only once.

Travel History

• In the last 5 years, I have traveled to 8 countries for both tourism and business. 
• The countries I have traveled to are Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, UAE, Turkey and Denmark.
• A copy of my visas and entry and exit stamps from all the above countries are attached.

Section 8: Any family members staying back at home

In this section, mention any family members remaining at home during your UK trip. This helps prove your family ties with your country. Family ties indicate that you will return back to your country after your trip. 

Do not include this section if it does not apply to you.

Family Remaining at Home

• I currently live with my wife and two children.
• My wife and children will remain at home during my trip to the UK.
• A copy of my wife’s employment proof and children’s school receipts are attached.

Section 9: Your intention to return back

In this section, mention that you will promptly return back after your trip and the reasons for that. Reasons can be employment, business or attending to family needs. 

Intention to Return Back

• I intend to return to Pakistan after the end of my UK trip on 27 Oct 2021 as I have to report back to my employer and continue at my job on 28 Oct 2021.
• An original leave approval letter from my employer is attached.

Section 10: Any miscellaneous information

If you want to add something that didn’t fall under any specific section above, you can include it here. This could be something about properties you own (economic tie), your rental situation, covid safety precautions, etc.

Miscellaneous

• I currently live in a rental apartment. A copy of my rental contract is attached.
• I own farmland with my wife. A copy of my property ownership document is attached. 
• I assure you that I will follow COVID safety precautions throughout my trip.

A cover letter is not a mandatory document for UK visa. But in my experience, it’s the most helpful document. The goal of the cover letter is to convince the ECO that you are a genuine visitor. Your cover letter must be simple, short and clear. Break the cover letter into sections, paragraphs and bullet lists. Use pictures and screenshots if necessary.

That’s it, folks! Now you know how to write a compelling cover letter for UK visa. This will greatly improve the chances of your UK visa approval. If you have any questions, please let me know in the comments below.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

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05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from HeyMondo . HeyMondo offers a 5% discount to Visa Traveler readers (use the link above), and covers all medical and travel emergencies during your trip.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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78 Comments

Kiesha says

March 5, 2023 at 8:53 am

Hi Thirumal, I love your articles and it has been really helpful, I applied for my Mums EUSS dependent Visa to travel to the UK which got rejected due to insufficient money transfers. It takes nearly 6 months to get a reply from them sometimes more than that. I need my mum to travel to the UK to be present for my delivery in July so I wanted to apply for a visiting visa. Do you think that would be an issue as I had applied for a dependent visa before? Thank you for your help.

Thirumal Motati says

March 6, 2023 at 2:07 pm

Hi Kiesha! Yes, it can pose an issue. I have seen cases where a visitor visa was refused due to a previous EUSS refusal. ECO assumes that the applicant is taking a different route to gain entry into the UK. So you will have to put more effort into convincing the ECO, through additional documentation and a cover letter.

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UK Cover Letter for Visa Application

Composing an effective cover letter for your UK visa application with expert guidance and free samples.

When applying for a UK visa, sometimes the Embassy may request to submit a cover letter. The cover letter needs to be short and to the point; it must give the Embassy an apparent reason why you are applying for a UK visa. Read the article below for further information regarding the UK cover letter, what to include, and other questions you might have.

Who Needs a Cover Letter When Applying for a UK Visa?

Everyone who applies for a UK visa can submit a printed and signed cover letter attached to their visa application form. However, It is only necessary to submit a cover letter if it is noted in your visa application form.

Important: The cover letter explains in more detail the reason and the purpose of your visit to the UK. By submitting a cover letter, the Embassy or Consulate of the UK will have a clearer vision of why you are applying for a UK visa.

Types of UK Cover Letters

The Republic of the United Kingdom has different visa types that apply to everyone who wishes to apply for a UK visa for any different purpose. With that being said, there are also other types of UK cover letters, such as:

• Work cover letter
• Student cover letter
• Family reunion cover letter
• Tourist cover letter
• Business cover letter

You can write any of the mentioned cover letters depending on the visa type you are applying for.

How to Write a Cover Letter for UK Visa Applications?

Here are a few tips to help you write the perfect cover letter when applying for a UK visa:

• The first step is to include the Embassy’s information and the name of the country you are applying from.
• Full name (first and last)
• Passport number
• Citizenship
• The city and country you live in
• Your professional career
• The third step is to introduce the purpose of your visit to the UK and how long you are planning to stay.
• The fourth step is to explain in detail your trip itinerary; you must also include the accommodation and financial information (where you will stay and how you will financially support yourself during your stay in the UK).
• The fifth step is to mention the documents you will submit together with your cover letter when applying for your UK visa.
• The sixth step is to include your personal contact information, such as your email address and phone number. This information will help the embassy to contact you regarding your UK visa application results.

What Not to Do in a Cover Letter for UK Visa Application

Make sure you avoid these mistakes when writing your UK visa application cover letter:

• Do not write long sentences or paragraphs
• Be straightforward
• Keep it simple
• Do not copy your cover letter
• Do not include unnecessary personal details
• Do not be rude
• Do not make grammatical mistakes
• Do not give false information
• Be formal and respectful
• Do not forget any important information

Cover Letter for UK Visa Application Sample

Here is a simple sample you can refer to when writing your cover letter:

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Apply for citizenship if you have indefinite leave to remain or 'settled status'

How to apply.

There are 2 ways to apply for British citizenship by naturalisation. You can either:

• make an application yourself
• use an agent or representative

Make an application yourself

Read the guidance to check if you can apply and what documents you need to provide.

Fill in the form online .

You’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services ( UKVCAS ) service point to provide your biometric information (your fingerprints and a photo).

You do not need to send your documents anywhere. You can either:

• upload copies into the online service
• have them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment

You can also apply by post .

You must have been physically present in the UK exactly 5 years before the Home Office receives your application. If you apply online, your application will be received on the same day. It will take longer if you apply by post.

If you’re applying from the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or a British overseas territory

If you live in the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or a British overseas territory , you have to apply by post or in person instead. Check which you can do with your governor’s office.

You’ll be told where to give your biometric information after you apply.

Get help to apply online

You can get help with completing the online form if you:

• do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device
• do not have internet access

You can only use this service if you’re applying in the UK.

You cannot get immigration advice through this service.

Apply through an agent or representative

An agent or representative is a private company or individual that can help you with your application and give you advice.

Check if an agent or representative is registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner ( OISC ) .

You can also use some solicitors or barristers that are not registered with the OISC . The solicitor or barrister must be registered with one of the following organisations instead:

• General Council of the Bar
• Law Society of England and Wales
• Chartered Institute of Legal Executives
• Faculty of Advocates
• Law Society of Scotland
• General Council of the Bar of Northern Ireland
• Law Society of Northern Ireland

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Freddy's Musings

Personal musings of a Filipina in the UK

UK Spouse Visa Covering Letter

Applying for a spouse visa is quite, if not very daunting for most of us for the mere reason that it’s full of technicalities. The amount of evidence to prove the application is tricky and sometimes just overwhelming but hey ho! We do what needs to be done.

There’s no exact checklist for a spouse visa application. It all depends on your circumstances to include the category of financial requirement as well as the type of accommodation you’re using and not to mention the relationship status you have. Of all these supporting documents you’re preparing for submission, a covering letter sometimes gets lost amidst the chaos. And almost always, it’s a disaster! Hah!

So, what is a covering letter? Why is it important for the spouse visa application? The answer is simple but packs a punch. The covering letter shows a snippet of the whole nine yards of your application. It explains in summary the what, why, where, when and how of your application. This is usually filed on top of the application supporting documents with the intent to give the Entry Clearance Officer or the Case Officer the overview of your case/application.

A detailed covering letter should contain the following information:

• Personal details for both the applicant and sponsor, e.g. nationalities, type of visa application, where you’re applying at and other personal information you think might be of help to your application;
• Relationship details, e.g. the when, where, how, and what of the relationship as well as the information on how you continue your relationship while living in separately as well as the full detail of the marriage (if married);
• Financial requirement details, e.g. how your sponsor meets the financial requirement;
• Accommodation details;
• English requirement;
• Additional information you would like to add;
• Write down the comprehensive list of supporting evidences you are submitting for your application.

I made a sample covering letter to help those who need a guide to make one for their own application. And I say, SAMPLE ONLY. All the best!

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Library item label woz ere --> jobs jobs graduate careers part-time work during studies (student only) local and international job markets employers and networking equality and employment rights applications cvs, applications and interviews (student only) cvs and covering letters applications and personal statements interviews and assessment centres online tests graduate application support cvs, applications and interviews pathway graduate access to career connect study & academic careers study and academic careers postgraduate taught/ masters postgraduate research applications for further study funding for further study support for researchers career planning for researchers application resources for researchers events and workshops book an appointment postgraduate researcher experience programme (prep) experience & development placements and work experience placement year (student only) internships (student only) virtual work experience (student only) volunteering skills and personal development sheffield graduate attributes myskills academic and study skills extra-curricular activities services & support services employability & placement hubs events advice appointments myjobshop support for prospective students international students equal opportunities students graduates researchers and contract research staff employability systems career connect sheffield connect goinglobal graduates first contact us latest news information for employers information for employers recruit a student, graduate or apprentice events and activities support for local business terms and conditions of engagement contact us information for staff information for staff our aims employing a student placement and internship information support we offer employability data   cover letters.

A covering letter highlights your relevant strengths and motivation for the job and organisation you are applying to, and markets you effectively by complementing your CV.

Preparing to write an application, CV or cover letter

Includes information on how to research the opportunity and how to reflect on how you meet the requirements.

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Advice on how to write and structure an effective cover letter

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Examples to give you inspiration for when you write your own CV or cover letter

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How to Succeed at: Writing Applications

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How to write a cover letter

As your one opportunity to sell your skills and experience to potential employers, it's important to get your cover letter right. Discover how to write and format a cover letter, take inspiration from our template examples and learn more about avoiding common mistakes

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a document sent alongside your CV when applying for jobs. It acts as a personal introduction and helps to sell your application.

Cover letters are necessary as they give you the chance to explain to an employer why you're the best candidate for the job. You do this by highlighting your relevant skills and experience while keeping the position you're applying for in mind.

Not to be confused with personal statements for your CV , cover letters should complement your CV but not duplicate it. The consensus among recruiters when it comes to the length of these documents is the shorter, the better. Typically, three to five concise paragraphs, cover letters should not exceed one A4 page.

If you're planning on sending the cover letter electronically, put the text in the body of the email rather than as an attachment, to avoid it being detected by spam filters.

Applications should always include a cover letter unless the job advert advises you differently.

How do I write a good cover letter?

Before writing your cover letter, it's important that you do your research. While reading the job description thoroughly is essential, it's not enough on its own. To help you craft a successful cover letter, you'll need to find out more about:

• who will be reading your cover letter
• the organisation and its culture
• the industry it operates in and any relevant news
• company competitors and market position.
• the organisation's goals over the next five years.

When writing your cover letter, keep it brief and ensure it emphasises your suitability for the job. Cover letters can be broken down into the following sections:

• First paragraph - The opening statement should set out why you're writing the letter. Begin by stating the position you're applying for, where you saw it advertised and when you're available to start.
• Second paragraph - Highlight any relevant experience and demonstrate how your skills match the specific requirements of the job description. Summarise any additional strengths and explain how these could benefit the company.
• Third paragraph - Cover why you're suitable for the job, what attracted you to this type of work, why you're interested in working for the company and what you can offer the organisation. This is a good opportunity to show off your knowledge about them.
• Last paragraph - Use the closing paragraph to round up your letter. Reiterate your interest in the role and indicate your desire for an interview. Now is the time to mention any dates when you're unavailable.

Once finished, read through the document and cut out any unnecessary words and sentences. Don't fill up space by repeating what's already covered in your CV. As a rule, only mention your current salary or salary expectations if the employer has specifically asked you to. If you're asked to include this information, put it between the third and last paragraphs.

Unless the job advert states differently - for example, it may ask you to provide your CV and cover letter as a Word document - save it with a .PDF file extension to ensure it can be opened and read on any machine. Windows PCs and Macs don't always work in harmony - Windows uses a .docx file extension and Macs .pages but if the recruiter uses the opposite system, they may not be able to open your file. Using a .PDF file extension should solve this.

If you need help with your CV take a look at  how to write a CV .

How should I address a cover letter?

Always try and address your cover letter directly to the person who will be reading it. Bear in mind that you're more likely to receive a reply if you send it to the right person.

For advertised roles, the person to address the application to is often named in the job description.

When applying through an agency, aim to address the cover letter to a specific recruitment consultant.

If a contact isn't listed, or if you're applying speculatively , you'll need to do some research.

Visit the company website to see if you can find the name of their hiring manager, conduct a Google search to see if you can find their details, or try to discover if they're on LinkedIn.

After searching extensively online, there's nothing wrong with giving the organisation a call to ask who to address your cover letter to.

If you're really struggling to find a named contact, you can use a general greeting such as:

• Dear Sir/Madam
• Dear Hiring manager
• Dear Human resources director.

However, general greetings should only be used once you have exhausted all other methods of finding a named contact.

Should I disclose a disability in my cover letter?

Deciding whether to disclose a disability in a cover letter is a personal choice. If you feel comfortable doing so, focus on your strengths and how your disability has shaped your resilience and problem-solving skills. Briefly mention any necessary accommodations without dwelling on limitations.

Alternatively, consider waiting to discuss your disability in person to build rapport and address specific concerns. Remember, employers are legally obligated to make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees, so your disclosure can be a positive step towards a supportive work environment.

Take inspiration from our example 'disclosing a disability' cover letter below.

How do I sign off a cover letter?

How you sign off your cover letter depends on how you addressed it. If you include a named contact, sign it off with 'Yours sincerely'. If you use a general greeting, finish with 'Yours faithfully'.

Example cover letters

• Sample cover letter  - Used to highlight your skills and experience and to express your suitability and passion for the job, cover letters are used to encourage recruiters to look at your CV. Attention to detail is crucial and the spelling, grammar and formatting needs to be spot on. Take a look at our sample cover letter for inspiration.
• Speculative cover letter  - These can sometimes be an effective method of creating an opportunity. To ensure that speculative cover letters are successful, do your research on the company you're applying to. Using our cover letter template, discover what to include in speculative applications.
• Cover letter by a Masters graduate  - You probably embarked on a Masters to expand your subject knowledge, gain industry contacts and improve your job prospects but you need to know how to sell your postgraduate qualification to employers.
• Cover letter for a jobseeker with no experience  - It can be tough applying for a job with no experience, but our example cover letter shows you how to promote yourself to an employer if you haven't got any directly related work experience.
• Explaining a gap in your CV  - Knowing how to navigate around gaps in your CV can be tricky but it's a mistake to try and gloss over them. Your cover letter is the perfect place to explain these gaps in your employment history to potential employers. Take a look at our sample cover letter to find out how to go about it.
• Cover letter for changing career  - Find out how to explain a change of direction in our example cover letter for career changers . You'll need to briefly cover why you want to change your career and relate your past experience and wealth of skills to the industry/job you're applying to.
• Cover letter by an international graduate  - If you'd like to expand your horizons by working abroad , take a look at our cover letter of an international student applying for a job in the UK. You'll need to do your research if you apply for a job in another country, as their application rules may differ.
• Disclosing a disability  - Just like your gender, marital status and number of dependants, your disability doesn't affect your ability to do a job, and you're not legally required to disclose it on your CV or in your cover letter. However, if you'd like to disclose a disability to outline any adjustments you may need, this sample cover letter will show you how.
• Internship cover letter - To set yourself above the competition you need to successfully sell your relevant skills and experience while conveying your passion for the role. As well as explaining to employers what the opportunity could do for you, you'll need to communicate what you could do for the company. Discover how to craft the perfect application for a formal internship with our dedicated template.
• Apprenticeship cover letter - Apprenticeships are an increasingly popular route into work, as well as a great alternative to university . Find out how to apply for apprenticeship roles with our focused cover letter example.

For inspiration and guidance on crafting a CV, see our example CVs .

When should I follow up my application?

It's always a good idea to follow up on a job application if you don't hear back. If two weeks have passed and you've had no response, send an email to the hiring manager to check that your application has been received. Use this opportunity to reiterate your interest in the role and why you think you'd be an asset to the company.

Keep this email brief. It shouldn't act as a second cover letter or attempt to replace or repeat the original.

What are some top tips for writing a cover letter?

With employers often receiving lots of applications for each vacancy, it's important for your cover letter to make a lasting impression. To achieve this, you'll need to:

• Tailor to the organisation - You should rewrite your cover letter every time you apply for a position to target the company. Sending out a generic letter for all applications rarely yields positive results and recruiters can spot your lack of time and effort from a mile away.
• Format - Presentation is important so you'll need to format your cover letter properly. Make sure the document is as uncluttered as possible. Use the same font and size as you use in your CV and if you're sending it through the post or handing it in, use good quality plain white paper to print it on.
• Use keywords that appear in the job advert - This lets the employer know that you've read and understood the job description. It also demonstrates that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the job.
• Identify your USPs - These are your unique selling points (USPs). Be positive about what you have to offer and clearly outline how your skills and experience meet those requested in the job description. Demonstrate why you're the perfect candidate.
• Include examples - Back up the claims in your cover letter with real evidence or examples that show how and when you've used your skills and experience.
• Save a copy - If you're invited to interview, you might need to refer back to it.

If you're a student or recent graduate, you can make an appointment with your university's careers and employability service to access further help when writing your cover letter. You'll be able to talk with specially trained advisers, get advice on what to include and have a professional eye look over your application before sending.

What should I avoid when writing a cover letter?

While your CV outlines your academic achievements and your employment history, whether you're invited to interview usually hinges on your cover letter.

'Mistakes in your cover letter can create a negative impression,' says Carl Jukes, employability adviser at the University of Birmingham. 'Employers often use cover letters to assess your attention to detail, communication skills, and professionalism. Mistakes can make you appear careless or unqualified for the position. It's essential to thoroughly proofread and edit your cover letter to ensure it is error free.'

To ensure your cover letter doesn't stand out for the wrong reasons, here are eight things to avoid when writing one:

• Being overly friendly - While a cover letter should give a recruiter an insight into who you are as a person, being overly friendly is a big no-no. Avoid writing about your personal life and steer clear of jokes and sarcasm. 'Remember that a cover letter is a formal business document, and maintaining a professional tone is crucial,' says Carl. 'It's best to strike a balance by being polite, enthusiastic, and respectful without overstepping professional boundaries.' Similarly, try not to sound too keen. Enthusiasm for the role is important, but don't go overboard. Your cover letter needs to sound genuine; employers can spot insincerity a mile away.
• Only focusing on what the company can do for you - This mistake will kill your application before it gets started. Instead of explaining what you can gain from joining the organisation, use your cover letter as an opportunity to detail how your knowledge, skills and experience can benefit the company. Carl points out that you need to 'address an employer's pain points or challenges and explain how you can contribute to their success.' To achieve this, do some research into the company. Use a range of resources - from looking at the employer's vision, mission and values, to reviewing their social media posts and connecting with current staff on LinkedIn. To find out if you've successfully tailored your cover letter, remove the employer's name from the document and read it through to judge whether you could use the same letter when applying for a similar role at another company.
• Underselling yourself - No one likes to sound like they're boasting but you need to make sure you're not underselling your achievements either. Don't be afraid to highlight your accomplishments and USPs, and don't shy away from confidently stating you can carry out certain competencies well. 'If you downplay your achievements or fail to communicate your value effectively, the employer may assume you're not a strong candidate,' explains Carl. 'It is essential to highlight your strengths, experiences, and unique contributions to make a compelling case for why you're a good fit for the role.' Try asking someone who doesn't know you personally, such as a careers adviser, to read through your letter to ensure you've struck the right balance between confidence and cockiness.
• Drawing attention to your weaknesses - Avoid sentences such as 'Although I don't have any experience in (specific competency) I'm willing to learn.' Instead, swap this for 'My experience in (this field) has given me X and Y transferrable skills…'. There's no place for negative or passive sentences in a cover letter. Focus on what you can do, not what you can't.
• Copying and pasting a template - Cover letters have a standard structure you need to follow and using a template can often help, especially if you're struggling with what to include. The problem occurs when you copy and paste a cover letter example and only make minimal changes to the document. Templates should only be used as a guide. The only things you should be taking from online examples are inspiration and ideas. Although they can be time consuming, every cover letter needs to be unique.
• Rewriting your CV - This mistake will lead your application straight to the bin. View your cover letter as a sidekick to your CV - they need to work together but they shouldn't repeat each other. Use your cover letter to add context and detail to certain skills and experiences, while keeping in mind the job description and person specification.
• Writing your life story - It's easier to waffle in your cover letter than on your CV but it's important to keep it concise and to the point. To help cut it down, consider every sentence and ask yourself 'do employers need to know this?' and 'is it relevant to the job?'
• Failing to proofread - This oversight can lead to spelling mistakes, grammatical errors and formatting slip-ups. It could give employers the impression that you're careless. Don't proofread your letter straight after writing it, as it can be hard to spot mistakes. Take a break and come back later for a final check before sending.

Find out more

• Learn more about CVs and cover letters .
• Discover how to get a job .
• Read our interview tips .

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• Careers advice
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How to write a cover letter.

A cover letter introduces you to an employer and asks them to think about your application. 

It’s a short letter, usually 3 to 5 paragraphs long.

When to include a cover letter

You should always include a cover letter when you apply for a job using a CV. 

You can write it as an email if you’re applying online or print a copy to go with a paper application.

When writing a cover letter, let the employer know you’re keen by showing that you’ve researched the company. Learn more about what they do through:

• their website
• recent news articles
• talking to people you know who work there

Send it to the right person

It's important to try to address your cover letter to someone by name. Check you have the details of the person you need to send it to. 

You'll need their name and preferred title. For example, ‘Dr’, ‘Mr’, ‘Mrs’, ‘Ms’, and their job title. You should also make sure you have the right company name and address, including postcode.

If you do not know their name

If the job advert does not include a name you can check the company website. Try to find details of the head of the department, head of human resources or a recruitment manager.

If you still cannot find a name, you can start your letter with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.

Introduction

Introduce yourself and explain how you found the advertised job. You can mention the job title, and reference number if there is one. 

If you’re asking about any job openings and not applying to a vacancy, tell them what sort of job you’re looking for. Let the employer see how keen you are to work for them.

Show you're right for the job

Highlight the skills and experience you have that match what the employer is looking for. 

Convince them that you're enthusiastic about working for them. Let them know you share their work values, culture and style.

Give extra information

If you have gaps in your employment history, you could talk about the skills you gained while you were out of work.

If you’ve mentioned on your CV that you have a disability, you might want to talk more about this in your cover letter. Organisations like Disability UK can give you advice on how to do this. You do not have to mention your disability at this stage if you prefer not to.

You can get more help with specialist advice on finding work if you have a disability.

Ending your cover letter

Thank the employer for considering your application. Let them know that they can get more details from your CV, and tell them you're looking forward to hearing from them.

Let them know how they can best contact you. Make sure your contact details are correct on both your cover letter and CV.

Yours sincerely or yours faithfully

If you know the name of the person you’re writing to, you should end the letter with ‘Yours sincerely’.

If you’ve addressed the letter ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, you should end the letter with ‘Yours faithfully’.

Tips for writing a cover letter

When writing your cover letter, remember to:

• write a new one for every job you apply for and make sure it’s tailored to the company and the specific role
• use the same font and size as you do for your CV, so it looks consistent
• make sure the company name and recruiter’s details are correct
• use the right language and tone: keep it professional and match the keywords used by the employer in their job advert
• show you’ve done your research into the job and the company
• highlight your most relevant skills and experience to stand out from other applicants
• back up any statements you make with facts and use the STAR method
• double check spelling and grammar before you send it
• keep a copy of your cover letter as they may ask you about it in an interview

Related content

How to write a CV

Completing application forms

Interview tips

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