Visa Traveler

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

Updated: September 6, 2023

Cover Letter for UK Visa

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

Short Simple and Clear Cover Letter for UK Visa

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

Templates for UK visa by Visa Traveler

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

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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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.

Ankit Kate says

October 11, 2022 at 1:24 pm

Hello sir, Thanks a lot for the detailed information on the visa process. I am currently working on a Skilled Worker Tier 2 visa and planning to sponsor a visa for my mother-in-law. I have below 2 doubts regarding the same – 1. I currently live in a rented single room in the UK and planning to get a flat on rent in December (when my wife and mother in law would be arriving), so what address should I mention in the application? 2. Is it mandatory to show savings in my mother-in-law’s name if I am sponsoring all the expenses?

October 14, 2022 at 3:14 am

Hi Ankit! 1. To avoid complications, you should mention the new address (flat from December) as the “accommodation” address for your mother-in-law. 2. Yes. This is becoming very important and UKVI is very strict about this. Your mother-in-law must have her own income and savings. If she doesn’t, then the person on which she depends, ex: father-in-law. Also, make sure to show any properties that she owns and family members that will remain in her country during her UK trip.

October 17, 2022 at 8:28 am

Hi Thirumal, thanks a lot for the advice. I just have one more question – My mother-in-law doesn’t have much savings or funds but has a property in her name. But the property papers are in a regional language. Do we need to get those translated into English for application?

October 18, 2022 at 7:02 am

Yes, the papers must be translated into English for the UK visa.

Darshita Gajjar says

September 21, 2022 at 9:04 am

Hello. Thank you for the article. It is very helpful. I have a question about the address required in the cover letter. I am applying from Germany via TLS Application Centre. Based on my knowledge, TLS only collects the biometrics, processes your application and forward it to the UK Visas & Immigration in the UK. So for my cover letter which address should I write under The Entry Clearance Officer?

September 26, 2022 at 3:53 am

Hi Darshita! TLS forwards the application to the local UK embassy or consulate in Germany. So you can address the cover letter to “The Entry Clearance Officer, Embassy of the UK in Germany”. Who you address your cover letter is not that important. The content of the letter is important though.

Raymond says

October 6, 2022 at 9:11 pm

My wife is offering to cover the cost for me and our 3 kids for 5days Christmas holiday. Do I also need to submit my bank statements, as my pay is quite low?

October 7, 2022 at 3:46 am

Hi Raymond! Yes, even if your wife is sponsoring your application, you must provide your own bank statements too. Your income/savings do not have to meet the financial requirements since you are seeking sponsorship. If you have a decent income and can provide bank statements, you should be fine.

August 27, 2022 at 11:51 pm

Hello Thirumal. Thank you for the support and advice in your articles. Please how do I prove that I am related to my brother I am Inviting? I do not have a birth certificate, Is a baptism card sufficient enough as our parents never processed our birth certificates and we are in our 40’s now.

September 1, 2022 at 5:59 am

Hi Sue! Any document that shows your names along with your parents’ names should work. Or any documents that show both your names with matching last names can also be used. But yeah the baptism cards should work too.

Tushar Shah says

August 14, 2022 at 6:50 am

Thanks, your write-up is more than useful. I am applying for a UK visa thru VFS from Pune. To whom should the cover letter be addressed?

August 14, 2022 at 11:55 am

Hi Tushar! You can address your cover letter to the following.

The Entry Clearance Officer The Consulate General of the United Kingdom, Pune, India

There may not be a consulate of the UK in Pune. Your application might be sent to the consulate of the UK in Mumbai or New Delhi. But just using the city where you are applying is fine. Many readers have done that and none of them faced any issues. What’s important in the cover letter is the content, so you will be fine.

Dharshine says

January 28, 2023 at 4:12 pm

Hi Thirumal, I am having a question that is I and my child want to visit the UK for the summer holidays. My husband is an ex-serviceman and he had many properties, pay slip, pension slip everything because of insufficient leave he can’t come with us. But we had a joint account maintaining about 4 lakhs. Is that possible that I and my child can get visas through my husband’s sponsorship?

February 10, 2023 at 11:44 am

Hi Dharshine! Yes, your husband can sponsor your application even though he will not be traveling with you. He would need to write a sponsorship letter and provide all his documents. Similarly, you would need to mention all these details in your cover letter.

Pujan Sinha says

August 13, 2022 at 3:44 am

Hi Thirumal, I intend to apply for UK tourist visa. I have traveled to other countries before however last time there was a refusal from the Netherlands. Do I need to mention the refusal reasons and justify them? Also I had withdrawn my UKVI application once, due to change of travel plans. Should I include these points in the cover letter?

August 13, 2022 at 7:42 am

Hi Pujan! Yes. You must mention your Netherlands visa refusal and the reasons for its refusal in your UK visa application. You don’t have to mention your UK visa application withdrawal. It’s are not a refusal, so no need to mention.

shalini says

August 12, 2022 at 7:51 pm

Hi, I have been to the UK before and came back. The year 2001. Then 2005 I applied for a student visa, I got the visa and went for studies. After a successful year of studying, I apply for leave to remain which it got refused. The reason is the college was closed down. I appeal again. They refused. Then came back home. Now after 10 yrs, I am applying for a visit visa to see my friend. my friend is sponsoring me. Am I supposed to mention that 12 yrs before history in my cover letter. Please advise.

August 16, 2022 at 9:40 am

Hi Shalini! If you are re-applying immediately after a refusal, it helps to mention it in your cover letter so you can address it. But there is no need to mention a refusal that happened 12 years ago in your cover letter. However, you will have to mention all visa refusals, even if they happened 12 years ago, in your visa application form.

saidi adeleke says

August 12, 2022 at 4:42 pm

I am self employed with very good travel history – USA, UAE and 6 European countries. As a self employed is it important that I should submit my personal bank statement while applying for UK visitors visa or I can only submit my company bank statement since I will be sponsoring myself for the trip? PLEASE ADVISE.

August 16, 2022 at 9:52 am

Hi Adeleke! If your self-employment is registered as a business, then you must submit both business and personal bank statements. Your salary deposits must match those bank statements. If you only submit your business bank statements, then you must write a letter on your company letterhead that your business funds are available for personal use.

Jamal Adejare says

December 10, 2022 at 1:29 am

Hi Thirumal, Please I want to ask about running your business on your personal account, but had the business registered, will it be mandated you provide a company account still?

December 13, 2022 at 4:29 am

Hi Jamal! The ideal setup is to have separate bank accounts for your business. But it is not mandatory for your UK visa. If you do a good job of explaining things and providing clear documentation, you should be fine.

Foster Osei Bonsu says

July 27, 2022 at 9:41 pm

Please thank you very much for your education on travelling application. I want to know how lengthy or how many words must the cover letter be on a visit application.

July 28, 2022 at 4:28 am

Hi Foster! I recommend keeping your cover letter to one page or two pages max. A cover letter is not a mandatory document so keeping it to one page has a higher chance of ECO reading it. If it’s too many pages, the ECO may skip reading it.

June 27, 2022 at 1:09 am

Hello, thanks for the great write-up, it’s super useful! Which category should we upload the cover letter to when uploading documents for self-service?

June 27, 2022 at 8:55 am

Hi Mike! It depends on whether you are using VFS or TLS. It should probably go into the “other” category.

Bankole says

May 25, 2022 at 5:01 pm

Thank you very much for the opportunity to learn from your wealth of experience. My organization, that is my office is set to sponsor me to a conference in the UK in August 2022. All expenses as regards the trip are being paid by my office. In this case, what other documents do I attach to my application sir? I do not have a fat net pay because larger percentage of my salary is being deducted to five (5) cooperative societies that I belong to for the purpose of saving for raining days.

May 31, 2022 at 8:29 am

Hi Bankole! From your side, you must show that you have sufficent income and savings to support your trip incase your employer decides not to support you after you land in the UK. Your income and savings doesn’t have to conform to £150 a day requirment since your employer is sponsoring you. So if you have savings enough for a flight back home should work fine too.

May 24, 2022 at 2:57 pm

Hello, my brother is due to apply to come and visit me in the UK. I am a British and will be sponsoring his trip. But he lives in the village and he is a farmer (a cash business and he deposits the money in his bank). He has money in his bank statement equivalent to £1000. how can we prove this source of income please. He is a village man farming and selling in the village and Saturday markets. What documents should he submit?

May 25, 2022 at 6:30 am

Hi Sue! If he can prove that he is a farmer and sells his yield/produce at certain markets, then that should be sufficient. Also, if he owns the farming land, that would really help with his visa. What about his travel history? Has he ever been outside the country?

May 30, 2022 at 11:49 pm

Hello Thirumal. Thank you, how can he prove that he is a farmer, please? Also yes he has been outside the country since 2012 ( 10 years ago). The land he is farming on is our inheritance and the land title is in his name but as an administrator, pending the transfer to his name. Is this sufficient. The letter of administration from the court mentions him as the son of the late.

May 31, 2022 at 8:08 am

Yes. That should be sufficient to prove that the land belongs to him. It also needs to be properly explained in the “extra information” section within the UK visa application and also in the cover letter.

May 23, 2022 at 8:34 am

Hi, I am a single parent travelling with my son to UK on a tourist visa. I have the consent form, divorce decree and cover letter for my travel. I have also included other docs as per your article above. What other documents should I include in my application considering the single parent bit? My appointment is day after tomorrow and I happened to see this page only today.

May 24, 2022 at 6:51 am

Hi ML! Apart from those documents, submit the following for your application. – Cover letter with details of your employment, financial, family and economic ties

Submit the following for your son’s application. – His birth certificate (to prove your relationship) – Consent letter from your son’s father – A sponsorship/cover letter with details about you, your employment, financial, family and economic ties, etc. (since you will take care of his expenses during the trip)

Oladimeji says

May 21, 2022 at 10:54 pm

Please I forgot to include my visit to the Republic of Cyprus when I was asked in my visa application what countries I’ve visited! I wasn’t refused a visa neither was I deported! But the stamps in and out are on my passport! Do I need a cover letter?

May 23, 2022 at 6:23 am

Hi Oladimeji! If you have considerable travel history, for example, 5 or more, then you don’t have to worry about not mentioning Cyprus. If you don’t have good travel history, then cancel your application and fill out a new one. You can get a full refund of the visa fee if you haven’t given your biometrics yet. And the cover letter is necessary either way.

January 31, 2022 at 2:59 pm

Hi, thank you for your helpful subject. I am a Ph.D. student in Canada, and I want to visit the UK over the summer holidays. Also, I have to come back to Canada again to continue my Ph.D. program. What documents do I need to include in my file to show that I am coming back after visiting the UK? Is that sufficient to include my admission letter from the university and my home lease contract? Thank you!

February 2, 2022 at 6:40 am

Hi Alec! An admission letter will not be sufficient. You need proof that you still have a certain number of semesters left and you have pre-paid your tuition for the future semesters. At least 1 or 2 semesters would be fine. A home lease contract also helps.

January 25, 2022 at 12:19 pm

Hello, thank you for such effort you’ve put into this blog site to help lots of people like me. I must confess I have learned alot from the post and reactions after it. I have a couple of questions though.

1. What is the sequence of UK online application for family of 5 going together to the UK for holiday .i.e. who’s application comes first? 2. What is the visa approval success rate for a spouse that is not working at the moment and going with her husband and kids to the UK for holiday? 3. Can the husband sponsor wife’s UK visa application/trip even though she’s employed?

January 26, 2022 at 5:49 am

Hi Sam! I appreciate the kind words! 1. Even though you all apply together, each application is assessed individually. You will have no control over whose application will be assessed first and in which order. The only thing you can do is to mention everyone else as their travel companions in each of your applications, and also in the cover letter. 2. The approvals are high as long as the husband can sponsor her application, prove the relationship and prove that she and her husband have strong ties with their country. 3. Yes, the husband can sponsor his wife’s UK visa application. There is no need for the wife to be working or employed.

December 14, 2021 at 4:25 pm

Hello, with regard to mentioning the Travel History in the Cover Letter. What if my previous passport already expired and got misplaced, hence, I am not able to provide a copy of the stamps for these. Do you think it will still add value or just completely leave out the travel history section? Grateful in advance for your response.

December 18, 2021 at 10:39 am

Hi Jamie! If you can’t prove your travel history, don’t mention it in the application.

December 7, 2021 at 3:51 pm

Hello, I’m employed and I’m a business owner, my bank statement reflects both my salary from my job and profit from my business. My question is what should I attach as proof? Payslips, business license, etc.? Thank you!

December 11, 2021 at 12:08 pm

Hi Julie! You must attach both, your payslips and business license. Also, explain clearly in your cover letter. In the future, separate your accounts otherwise you will continue to face problems with your visas.

November 30, 2021 at 10:56 am

Hi sir, I’m mills a police officer and I intend to travel to the UK for a conference on safety and security by next year. I need guidance on what documents I should attach to it apart from the mandatory requirements. Will it be necessary to add my marriage certificate, car and house paperwork?

December 2, 2021 at 3:44 pm

Hi Mills! Documents proving any kind of ties with your country are essential to make a strong case. Your marriage certificate will prove your family ties and house paperwork will prove your economic ties with your country. So yes, make sure to provide those two. Mentioning your car is not necessary.

October 17, 2021 at 5:02 am

Hello, I am applying for a UK returning residence visa to regain the status of my lapsed ILR. My question is should I write a cover letter with the application, if yes then to whom should I address the cover letter. Please quick response will be highly appreciated.

October 20, 2021 at 5:19 pm

Hi Navid! Unfortunately, my knowledge and experience are only in tourist visas. So I’m not sure if a cover letter is necessary for an ILR application.

Esther says

November 19, 2021 at 12:44 am

Dear THIRUMAL, I applied for a tourist visa to the UK and was approved. The next again I tried and was refused because the first information says I don’t have dependents and that’s because they don’t live with me. Now they live with me and depend on me but I didn’t realize then I should have included a cover letter. And we were all denied. What must I do because the children want to visit the UK on tourism? Thanks.

November 20, 2021 at 12:39 pm

Hi Esther! You already know your refusal reasons. Make sure to fix them in your re-application. Provide proof that you have dependents (family ties) and provide a detailed cover letter. Follow the instructions from this article for the cover letter.

September 28, 2021 at 1:25 pm

Hi Thirumal, I’m doing the application for a UK visa for my parents, both retired, and they live in Albania. Their pension is not a great amount of money and my siblings and I, we all contribute monthly to their financial situation of their living there. I’m covering all their expenses from the start to finish of their visit to the UK. I’ve prepared a cover letter from my part explaining their intention of coming in UK for Christmas and that I’ll be covering everything.

Their visas have been refused 2 times before. Now my concern is “On their cover letter should I explain their pension as an income and that their children give financial support on their living, or should we live this out of the cover letter.

I understand that their pension money only is not enough, and there is a section on the application asking about their salary and other forms of income and how much they spend monthly. this is a bit tricky for pensioners as they will have to spend all their money for their living in my country, and also the extra they get for us. Do we have to explain this in the cover letter? Will this still be an issue for the application?

Just to mention again I’ll be covering their expenses while travelling. They have savings as their own 4000Euro, which they have accumulated while they had worked previously, My mom had a small tailoring shop. Will this be enough for them? Thanks!

September 29, 2021 at 8:53 am

Hi Bruna! The UK visa application is mainly meant for employed individuals. The questions are not quite relevant to retired, students, housewives, children, etc. That’s where the question “extra information” and the cover letter come in handy.

In their cover letters, yes, mention that they rely on both their pension and support from their children. This is quite normal in most countries, so I don’t think it would be difficult for the ECO to understand.

For employment questions, they can mention that they are retired. If that option is not available, they can select unemployed. For the question on other income or savings, they can mention their monthly pension and support from children. It’s ok for the living expenses to be equal to their pension and support. This won’t hurt their visa approval as you will be sponsoring their trip.

For any trip expenses related questions, make sure they put zero for them since they will not personally spend anything on the trip.

Yes, it’s essential to mention all of these in their cover letters and a summary of them in “extra information”.

Yes, 4,000 euros of savings should be enough for them since they will not personally spend anything from their side on the trip. You will bear all their trip expenses.

Lastly, a couple of important things. – Most of the time, UKVI will not scrutinize retired applicants. So, no need to worry about their pension and savings. ECOs will mostly focus on your income and savings as you are sponsoring them. Make sure you have all the documents needed. Also, if you know the reasons why their previous visas were refused, let me know, so I can give your more accurate advice based on that. – Even after explaining everything in the cover letter, a lot of time ECOs make decisions based on the numbers like salary, savings, etc in the application. This is unfortunate, but when this happens, a lot of times, the applicants see success either with a PAP or reapplication.

August 28, 2021 at 9:32 am

Hi, I am from Srilanka, which is a red list country. I intend to apply for a UK visa to drop and settle my one and only son who is starting uni. Do you think a visit visa will be issued?

August 28, 2021 at 11:46 am

Hi H Ali! If your country is on the red list, your UK visa application will not be accepted by the VFS. Even if they accept your documents, UKVI will put your application on hold till Srilanka comes out of the red list.

PRADEEP JALAN says

August 28, 2021 at 7:24 am

For Canada tourist visa applied online; where does the cover letter fit in. Is it necessary only when we apply on paper?

August 28, 2021 at 11:44 am

Hi Pradeep! A cover letter is not mandatory for a Canada visa. But I usually recommend one since it’s the easiest way to convey information that’s not asked in the application. You can provide a cover letter for both online and paper applications. If applying online, you can upload the cover letter for “Letter of explanation of your trip”. Letter of explanation of your trip will be one of the items in document upload.

Quincy says

August 26, 2021 at 9:12 pm

Hello. Nice articles. I’ve been visiting here for more knowledge but I still have some doubts.

1. I am planning to apply for a visit visa, I have my employment contract (25 pages) and also a leave letter from my HR. Do I need to submit both documents or just the leave NOC letter from my HR is fine?

2. Is it also necessary to submit my house rental agreements?

3. Also I have been refused a US visa some years ago which I declared in my application. But do I have to submit a copy of my refusal letter in my UK application and specify this in the cover letter also?

I really need some clarity here and I would appreciate your response. Thanks.

August 28, 2021 at 11:38 am

Hi Quincy! 1. Both the Employment letter and leave approval letter are necessary. Employment letter will have details such as how long you have been employed with them, your salary, job duties, etc. Therefore, you need an employment letter too, not an employment contract. You can have your HR write a one-page employment letter for you. If you need a template, email me. 2. Yes. It will demonstrate your economic ties with your country. 3. No. You do not need to submit your US visa refusal letter. You also do not need to mention your US visa refusal in your cover letter.

Muhammad Sameer says

August 24, 2021 at 5:58 pm

Hey dear, I have a couple of questions to ask related to the UK visit visa application. Considering my family is applying where my father is the head, my mother is a housewife and I am a student. All my queries are stated below.

1) There is a question in the application which says how much money you intend to spend on this trip personally, so what should I write for my father, me and my mom. I cannot put zero in mine and my mum’s because it doesn’t allow it.

2) My father was refused a UK visa back in 2012, The application asks for it but he doesn’t have the refusal letter so what should I write in the application.

3) Me and my mum applied and got the visa last December but we couldn’t go due to red list issues and increased corona cases. So should I mention that in my application on why we didn’t travel even though we had the visa then?

August 25, 2021 at 8:12 am

Hi Muhammad! 1) Even though you are not personally spending on your trip, you must still enter the amount per individual. You can divide the total expense by 3 and enter that amount for each of you. 2) You can simply enter “ECO discretion” or “Do not remember the refusal reasons”. This will not hurt your visa result in any way. 3) Mentioning that you had a visa and could not use it will only work towards your benefit. So make sure to mention it in the “additional/extra information” within your application and also in your cover letter.

August 25, 2021 at 5:57 pm

So for instance, if my father is staying there for two months and me and my mom are going for twenty days so around how much money should I write for me, my mom and my father.

August 26, 2021 at 1:34 pm

I see. That’s a bit complicated. I suggest dividing the total expense by the amount of time spent in the UK by each. From your example, since your dad will spend 60days, you will spend 20days and your mom will spend 20days, divide the total budget by 60%, 20% and 20%. That should work.

August 26, 2021 at 1:38 pm

Actually I am confused on how much should I write for budget of my trip as my sister and brother-in-law in UK would be taking care of our accommodation, food and transport in UK.

August 28, 2021 at 11:48 am

If someone is sponsoring your trip, you will only enter the amount that you personally spend on your UK trip. For example, if they cover your accommodation, food and transportation and you will pay for shopping and souvenirs. Then you will enter the amount you will spend on shopping and souvenirs.

August 15, 2021 at 6:24 pm

Hi Thirumal, my UK visa application was refused. I want to apply again, but I have some doubts, could I contact you in any way, please? I would like to receive advice and help from you. Thanks.

August 16, 2021 at 4:04 am

Hi Mari! Sure. Please send me an email with your questions to [email protected] .

Michael says

August 12, 2021 at 8:44 pm

Hi, my graduation ceremony is in September and I intend to travel for it. Can you help me with how I should tailor my cover letter to the British embassy?

August 14, 2021 at 11:37 am

Hi Michael! Since you will be applying for a visitor visa, you must prove that you have strong ties with your country and you will return back after your trip. Therefore, most sections in this article will apply to your situation except the travel purpose. In the travel purpose section, you will mention that you will be traveling to the UK for your graduation ceremony.

Fathia says

August 2, 2021 at 4:35 pm

Good evening sir, I really like your articles and it has really helped me. My father is about to apply for my visa again. My question is that how do I explain the deposit in my account were gifts from family members. My visa was refused because they were other deposits in my account aside from my father’s deposits (he is the one sponsoring my trip).

August 3, 2021 at 7:31 am

Hi Fathia! If your father is sponsoring and he also deposited cash into your account, he can explain that in his sponsor letter. You can also explain the same in your cover letter. But for other large cash deposits, you must present evidence that the cash belongs to you. I have a detailed article on bank statements for UK visa . This article explains these in detail.

Ofori Bismark says

July 28, 2021 at 4:51 am

Please sir, my brother is in the UK has sent me an invite. I m in Ghana now so what documents do I need before I can apply for the visa?

July 29, 2021 at 5:14 am

Hi Ofori! There is a distinction between INVITATION and SPONSORSHIP. To know what documents you need for the UK visa, you would first need to understand that your brother is simply inviting you to visit him or sponsoring your trip. Below are the documents you will need.

Invitation – Your brother’s UK passport (or his home country passport) – Your brother’s UK residence permit (if he is not a UK citizen) – An invitation letter from your brother stating that he is inviting you to visit him in the UK

Sponsorship – Your brother’s UK passport (or his home country passport) – Your brother’s UK residence permit (if he is not a UK citizen) – A sponsorship letter from your brother stating that you will take care of all your trip expenses including accommodation, food and transportation – His apartment lease agreement – A utility bill on his name

Arinola says

July 17, 2021 at 10:42 am

Good morning sir, I like your articles and it has been really helpful, my question is that what if you are submitting 6 months bank statements and your employers paid you 3 months and owe you 3 months what will you do? Even if you have other transactions running in your salary account, can you still use the accounts? Or if the employer pays the 3months together, can you still use it. Thanks.

July 17, 2021 at 11:22 am

Hi Arinola! If you are getting paid irregularly, you need to explain this in your cover letter and provide documentary proof such as an explanation from your employer.

Nana poku says

May 24, 2021 at 12:07 pm

If you own a property with your uncle can you add that in your miscellaneous with the necessary documents? And if you provided a statement from 2020-2021 in your previous application can you reduce it to 6months in the next application

Do you have to write a cover letter to prove your bank statement or get an attestation from the bank if your employer deposit is not clearly indicated in the bank statement? What do you do when there is a different department that pays salaries of workers of your employer?

Thirumal says

May 25, 2021 at 5:25 am

Hi Nana! Yes, if you co-own a property with someone, you can provide the ownership document as proof of economic tie with your country. Bank statements must be for the latest 6 months. No need for statements from the previous application. The most recent 6 months should work fine.

Bank statements in some countries require an official attestation from the bank. You will know if that’s how bank statements are used in your country for all purposes. If your company name is different from the deposit transaction in your bank statements, you can explain it in your cover letter.

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Table of Contents

Cover letter for UK visitor visa(5 samples)

sample cover letter uk visa

As a BetterHelp affiliate, we may receive compensation from BetterHelp if you purchase products or services through the links provided.

The Optimistminds editorial team is made up of psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health professionals. Each article is written by a team member with exposure to and experience in the subject matter.  The article then gets reviewed by a more senior editorial member. This is someone with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and highly cited published material.

This article will list samples of “cover letters for a UK visitor Visa.”

Samples of cover letters for a UK visitor Visa

When applying for a UK visitor Visa, your cover letter is an opportunity to show your recipient why you qualify. The best format for writing a cover letter is as follows:

  • Address the recipient with a formal salutation. For example, “Dear/Hello (name of the recipient).” If you do not know the recipient’s name, you can refer to them as sir/madam.
  • Write a brief statement about why you are interested in visiting Ireland.
  • Make a brief statement about your purpose for choosing the country. Next, disclose if you have already paid for accommodation.
  • Next, clearly state that you intend to return to your home country after completing your adventure.
  • List the expenses/funds and the documents and items attached to the application.
  • Conclude your letter with a forward-looking statement.

“British Embassy

678 Lincoln Road

United Kingdom

RE: Ms Celine Visitor Visa Application, Passport Number; 457654 Expiry Date; May 20th, 2012

This letter is written with the intention of expatiating on the information on application on myself and on the purpose of me needing a UK visitor visa. So I’m Celine Lawrence and I will be 40 years on the 3rd of Feb 2012. I have been working as an Engineer in landmark construction for about 8 years now. My country is affiliated to the renounced primetime construction and we execute main federal government jobs. I have been a regular employee since after my 6 months probation period of joining the company. I receive an annual salary of $40,000 and my monthly salary is $3500 that is divided in the below categories

For my taxable is $500

Honorarium is $2500

Allowance is $500

I had met my finance on the Badoo dating site on the January and we have just being communicating only via email and chats. Though he has been making attempt to come to Nigeria but his job routine has not allowed that for now. So I’m free now and will be permitted for my leave of work for about 48 days. So I want to use this opportunity to meet up with him.

I will like to leave for the UK on April 10th, 2012  and will return to my country on May 10th. My finance Mr. Tom will be paying all the expenses associated with the trip which includes my accommodation, airfare and living expenses. I have attached to this letter all the documents needed to get an approval.

Yours sincerely

Celine Lawrence”

“Dec 2nd, 2021

Entry clearance officer

British Embassy

456-987-654

Re; Visitor visa for George Job, passport number 66798 Expiry Date; 3rd July 2021

This letter is coming your way to give you additional information that might interest you more about my visitor visa application. My name is George Job and I work as a medical scientist in the US. My company is incorporated in a pharmaceutical company that is based in Japan. I’m a regular worker that receives $60,000 yearly and splitting this into months will make it $5000 per month. This payment includes my taxable income, allowances and other expenses.

I’m trying to visit my friend in the UK, this is why I’m applying for the visitor visa and I want to be there for only 2 weeks. I would have to return to work after the expiration of this period so this confirms that I wouldn’t be staying beyond the time or duration on my visa. I will be taking care of all the expenses associated with the trip though my friend also wants to sponsor the trip. Whichever way, this also confirms that the trip will adequately provided for.

Thanks you for your approval

Yours sincerely,

George Job”

The Entry Clearance Officer,

UK Visas and Immigration

17 June 2018

Cover Letter for Visit Visa Application

Respected Sir/Madam,

My name is *** (Visa Application Reference Number: ***, Passport number: ***). I am applying for Family Visit Visa to visit my son in the UK.

Reason for Visit

I miss my son and I wish to visit him. I also wish to explore the beautiful city of London.

My Background

I live in Karachi, Pakistan with <mention family members here>. I am a housewife.

<Insert details of family members here>.

I live with my husband, Tariq Zafar Khan, in Karachi. He runs his business of ***. He is also applying for a visit visa, so he could travel with me to London for this trip.

My Eldest Son

My eldest son, Dr. Naseer Khan, lives in London with his wife. Both he and his wife work as junior doctors at King’s College Hospital, London. He will be my primary sponsor for this trip. I will stay with him in London.

My Second Son

<Details of the second son were mentioned here>.

My Daughter

<Details of the daughter were mentioned here>.

Karachi to London: ** **** 2018

London to Karachi: ** **** 2018

Duration of Trip

Airline Booking

I will buy confirmed tickets when I am granted the visa. I have mentioned the estimated cost of airline booking in this letter.

Accommodation in London

I will be staying in London with my son, Dr. Naseer Khan. He has a two-bedroom flat. He and his wife are more than happy to host me and my husband.

Financial Sponsor

My trip will be completely sponsored by my son, Dr. Naseer Khan.

Cost of Trip to Me

The total cost my trip to me will be zero, as it will be paid for by my son.

Estimated Cost of Trip

Visa fee £93

Airline booking £607

Traveling in the UK £200

Living expenses £200

Total cost of my trip £1,100

The total amount of money my son has £**,***

I would be grateful if I am granted the visa to visit the UK and to see my sons. Please feel free to contact me if need be.

***** ****** ****.

Passport number: ***

Computerized National Identity Card number: ***

Phone number: 00 92 *** *** ****

Email: ***********”

“[Your address in the UK]

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. [He/she] would like to stay with me in the UK from [date of arrival] until [exit date]. The family member I would like to invite is – [insert name, date of birth and relationship to you e.g. father or mother]

I work as a [occupation] at [workplace] since [month, year], and I have been living in the UK for [number of years] and I am a British [status].

I have enough room for my visitor to stay over at me for the whole duration of [his/her] stay in the UK, at [list your address], which is a private rented property at [list your UK address].

I also obtained a letter from my landlord that gives them permission to stay with me during this period. I have attached it and other documents to support my letter of invitation. Please feel free to contact me if you require any additional information.

Yours faithfully

Email address

Phone number

To: [Visitor’s name]

[Visitor’s Address]

Dear [Visitor],

With this letter, I would like to invite you, my [relationship e.i. sister, friend, father], to visit me and spend your vacation in the UK. We have talked so many times about taking pictures together in front of the [tourist place] or drinking coffee at [tourist place]. I believe it is about time we make these plans come true. You will also have the chance to meet from close the British culture and experience its lifestyle.

I will be taking care of all your expenses while you are here, including the round trip airfare food, medical insurance, and all your other personal expenses. You will be staying at my apartment in [address] since I have enough room for you.

Herewith I am sending all the required documents for getting the necessary tourist visa from, including documents that prove I am a [status in Britain] since [year], and that I work at / study at [workplace or university].

Host’s name

Full address

Phone Number

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is a cover letter important.

  • Provide information that other documents can’t provide.
  • Speeds up the application process

Is it worth applying for an Irish passport?

The advantages of becoming an Irish citizen and holding an Irish passport include: 

  • You are still considered an EU citizen. 
  • You can travel freely throughout the 28 member states of the EU to live and work. 
  • If you have children, they will be granted Irish and EU citizenship.

If you like this blog post, please leave your comments and questions below.

A Sample Cover Letter for Tourist Visa and How to Create One
My Mother’s Cover Letter for Visit Visa Application

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Related posts, cover letter for hse position (5 samples), cover letter for lunch monitor (5 samples), cover letter for dnata equipment operator(5 samples).

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Sample Cover Letter for UK Visitor Visa Application

If you want to visit the United Kingdom, you will need to obtain a visitor visa. A standard visitor visa allows you to stay in the country for up to six months and can be renewed multiple times. In order to apply for a visitor visa, there are certain documents that you must submit with your application. Check out this sample cover letter for UK Visitor Visa Application.

sample cover letter uk visa

Why it’s important to submit a cover letter for your UK Visitor Visa Application?

A cover letter acts as an introduction and provide an overview of the visitor’s purpose and proposed length of stay. Additionally, they confirm that the visitor has sufficient funds to support themselves while in the UK; they explain any prior relationships with people in the UK or other plans which may require special consideration; as well as providing full contact details. Cover letters are also used as evidence to demonstrate that the visitor intends to follow the terms of their visa and leave the country at the end of their trip. A well-crafted letter can be a crucial part of ensuring successful approval for a UK Visitor Visa.

Thoughts about the UK Visitor Visa Application

Applying for a UK Visitor Visa can seem daunting at first but it doesn’t have to be! I have experienced this process twice so I know how nerve wracking this is. By understanding what documents are required and preparing all necessary paperwork ahead of time, anyone can successfully apply for a UK visitor visa with relative ease.

So make sure that when submitting an application for a UK visitor visa all required documents are included. With these items ready beforehand, submitting an application should go smoothly!

I hope this sample cover letter for UK Visitor Visa would prove useful in your application. If you want to know about how to apply for a UK Visitor Visa, I got you covered! I received many messages from people who used this post as their guide and got approved. I hope you get that visa sticker on your passport too! Good luck!

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Boost your UK visa approval chances with a well-written cover letter

HOW TO WRITE A COVER LETTER FOR UK VISA APPLICATION

Getting around the complex procedure of obtaining a UK visa can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to crafting the perfect cover letter to accompany your application. Whether you’re seeking entry for tourism, business, or study, your cover letter serves as a crucial introduction to your application. Crafting a meticulously written cover letter can tip the scales between visa approval and rejection. Here, we’ll explore the essential ingredients of an effective cover letter for UK visa, and the specific nuances to consider for different types of visa applications.

The Anatomy of an Effective Cover Letter for UK Visa 

Perfect your UK visa application with effective cover letters

A cover letter for UK visa isn’t just a formality – it’s your personal statement, often the first impression the consular officer will have of you. Crafting an impressive letter involves several key components:

Personal and Contact Information

Start your cover letter with your name, nationality, and current address. Include your contact details, such as your phone number and email address, for the Visa Officer’s convenience.

Purpose of Your Visit

Clearly state the purpose of your visit, whether it’s for tourism, business, family visit, or any other category. Elaborate on the reason for your trip, the itinerary, and mention any invitations you may have from individuals or organizations in the UK.

Background and Ties to Your Home Country

Provide a brief history of your travel background, including previous visits to the UK and other countries. Detail your employment status, ties to your home country, and any responsibilities that ensure your return, such as property ownership, family, or ongoing educational pursuits.

Financial Means

Demonstrate your ability to support yourself throughout your stay in the UK. This includes providing bank statements, salary slips, and other financial documentation specifying your income, savings, and any financial assistance you may receive.

Accommodation and Maintenance in the UK

Outline your planned accommodation in the UK or any arrangements you’ve made for this. If you’re staying with a relative, friend, or in a hotel, provide the relevant details.

Intention to Return

Reiterate your intention to return to your home country at the end of your visit or after pursuing your studies. Citing strong ties, as mentioned earlier, supports this aspect of your cover letter.

Supporting Documentation

Mention any additional documents you’re including in your application to substantiate the information provided in your cover letter. This could range from flight itineraries to employment letters, and should be organized and listed for reference.

An important rule to remember is to keep your cover letter concise and to the point. It should not exceed a single page in a standard A4 format, with clearly organized sections and a professional tone throughout.

Crafting the Perfect Introduction

Your introduction should include a polite salutation; for instance, “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern.” State the purpose of your letter immediately to provide clarity and set the right tone for the rest of the content.

Finance Matters and the Road to Viability

The financial section is often a make-or-break for visa applications. Ensure all presented financial data is easily verifiable and offers a clear picture of your financial situation. Highlight your financial stability and capacity to cover your expenses without recourse to public funds in the UK.

The Quintessence of Proof and Corroboration

Reinforce your claims with solid evidence, using documentation to support every statement in your cover letter. This evidence should be consistent with the expectations and regulations set out by UK Visas and Immigration .

Types of UK Visa Cover Letters

Perfect your UK visa application with effective cover letters

Each category of visa application requires different approaches to the cover letter’s content. Here’s how to tailor your letter to three common visa types.

Tourism Visa

For a tourism visa, focus on your proposed activities and demonstrate that you’re a genuine visitor with intent to return. Provide your complete itinerary, including flight and hotel reservations, and any planned excursions. Mention how this trip fits within your longer-term travel plans.

Business Visa Cover Letter

When applying for a business visa, elaborate on the professional reasons for your trip. This could include meetings, conferences, or other business engagements. Also, include an invitation letter from the UK company or organization you’re visiting as a vital support document.

Study Visa or Tier 4 Student Visa

In the case of a Tier 4 Student Visa, your cover letter should emphasize your academic goals and the benefits of studying in the UK. Describe your course, plans post-graduation, and elaborate on any scholarships or sponsorships. A letter of acceptance or sponsorship should be included as a supporting document.

Family Visit Visa

For a family visit visa, highlight your connection to the family member in the UK, the duration of your visit, and any important events you plan to attend. A formal invitation from your UK relative should be among your supporting documents.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Ensuring the success of your visa application also means avoiding common mistakes:

Providing Irrelevant Information

Every detail included in your letter should directly support your application. Irrelevant information can clutter your cover letter and detract from your case.

Inconsistencies with Other Application Elements

Any information or claims in the cover letter should match the facts in your application form and supporting documents. Discrepancies can raise red flags and jeopardize your application.

Neglecting to Proofread

A cover letter with typos, grammar errors, or incorrect facts reflects poorly on your attention to detail. Always proofread your letter, and if possible, have a third party review it for clarity and correctness.

Concealing Negative History

Be transparent about any past visa refusals, travel bans, or criminal history, if applicable. While it’s not necessary to go into detail, it is important to address these circumstances honestly and succinctly.

Final Words of Encouragement

Approaching a UK visa application with a precise and informed mindset can significantly boost your success chances. Your cover letter tells your story, so create it thoughtfully.

Craft a standout cover letter by balancing substance and brevity. Provide solid, verifiable details with proper documentation, all in a clear, structured format.

Remember, your visa cover letter should advocate convincingly but professionally. Maintain a formal tone, steer clear of overly emotional language, and stick to the facts that support your case.

Use these insights to draft a compelling UK visa cover letter. Pay attention to your visa’s requirements and ensure all components are in order to navigate the application process confidently towards approval.

Sample UK Visa Cover Letter

[Your Full Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

To the UK Visa Application Centre,

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to support my UK Tourism Visa application for a trip to the United Kingdom from [Start Date] to [End Date]. My aim is to explore the UK’s history, culture, and landscapes.

I have planned visits to key sites like the British Museum, Tower of London, Stonehenge, and a West End show. Attached are my itinerary, hotel bookings, and flight details.

I’ve organized my finances to cover all expenses without relying on public funds. I’ve included bank statements, employment letter, and pay slips to show financial stability.

To prove my intent to return, I’ve shared details of my employment, property, and family commitments. All information aligns with my application form.

I’m excited to visit the UK and will abide by its laws. Thank you for considering my application.

[Attachment List]

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UK Tourist and Visit Visa – Cover Letter Example

sample cover letter uk visa

This UK immigration legal help cover letter can be used to support a UK tourist or visitor visa application. What is a cover letter? Cover letter, template letter, legal template and submissions letter are just some of the names used to describe the most important application document. Our lawyers prefer to call this a cover letter and have done so for more than 17 years. Your cover letter is what really sets your application apart from all others, and a good one will detail everything important about your application. It will include your background information and details about how you meet specific immigration rules, tackling any complicated issues head-on. Entry clearance officers and Home Office decision makers will always consider all additional information contained within a well-written cover letter. As the most powerful weapon in any reputable immigration lawyer’s armoury, everything you detail therein can make or break your application. This legal help template has been prepared by and is currently used by our experienced Immigration Lawyers to make successful tourist and visitor visa applications for our clients. The letter contains red text. The red text indicates where you are required to provide information. All you need to do is enter the required information and that is it, you won’t need to do anything else other than to remember to add the letter to your other application supporting documents. It really is that simple!

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cover letter for UK visa

How to Write a cover Letter For UK Visa

Sample cover letter for uk tourist visa.

Ready for your journey to the United Kingdom for business or travel purposes?

Are in looking for a well-crafted cover letter for UK Visa to make your application more convincing to the Entry Clearance Officers (ECOs) and stand greater odds for an approval? 

Do you find yourself hunting for a sample cover letter for a UK tourist visa?

If you have these questions in your mind, you are in the right place!

In this blog, we’re going to discuss the secret to developing a compelling covering letter for visa application UK . Say goodbye to the uncertainty and anxiety that has lately gripped you while you have been trying to draft a visa cover letter. With professional guidance from our end, you can write a strong cover letter for UK visit visa that would leave a lasting impression on the ECOs.

Table of Contents

What is cover letter for uk visa.

A cover letter for UK visa is a vital document that you should submit with your visa application. Although it is not mandatory, submitting one goes a long way in strengthening your application. A cover letter for UK tourist visa explains the purpose of your visit and portrays your ties to your home country. It also carries other details that significantly enhance the chances of your visa getting approved.

Do you need a cover letter for UK visit visa? Knowing how to present your financial plans, financial stability, and enthusiasm to explore the country can help you obtain the visa faster. Let us guide you in drafting a compelling cover letter for UK visa that can make your application powerful.

What makes your cover letter for UK visa so important?

Wondering why a cover letter is a must for your UK Visa application? Well, when you furnish your details in the UK visa application, you must have noticed that most of the questions are closed-ended. So, there’s not enough scope to elucidate your personal situation and convince the ECO that you are willing to return to your home country after the trip is over. So, without a cover letter for visit visa UK , the chances of your application getting rejected are high.

A well-crafted cover letter for UK tourist visa gives you the opportunity to put forward your explanation. With a cover letter for UK visa, you can justify your stance in a descriptive manner.

Here’s how a covering letter for visa application UK can help you.

  • Express a clear intent: A cover letter for UK visa explains the purpose of your visit to the UK, leaving no room for confusion.
  • Ties to your home country: In a cover letter, you can demonstrate your strong bond to your home country and family. This convinces the visa officials that you are willing to return and won’t stay back.
  • Travel plan details: In a cover letter for UK visit visa application, you can provide detailed insights into your travel plan. Thus, it brings you the opportunity to showcase thorough planning.
  • Better communication: A descriptive approach on your end can help you convey additional information that clarifies the concerns of the visa officials.
  • Professional approach: A well-crafted visitor visa covering letter for visa application UK expresses your professionalism. It projects you as an organized and serious applicant that can boost your credibility.
  • Higher chances of approval: A carefully strategized cover letter puts your profile in a better place to obtain the approval.

Key Information to Include in Your cover letter for UK visa Application

When you write a cover letter for UK visa , it’s essential to include all the necessary details. Remember, this cover letter for embassy serves as your introduction to the embassy during your visa application process.

Typically, a cover letter for UK visa from India should include the following details:

cover letter for UK visa application

  • Introduction to the visa officer
  • Purpose of travel
  • Travel details (dates, itinerary, accommodation)
  • Financial information
  • Ties to your home country
  • Reasons for not overstaying in the UK
  • Previous travel history
  • Invitation or sponsorship (if applicable)
  • Whether you are applying with any dependent
  • Mentioning additional supporting documents
  • Gratitude and contact information
  • Your signature

Common Reasons Your UK Visa Cover Letter May Face Rejection

Potential grounds of your cover letter for UK visa getting rejected include:

  • Incomplete, missing, or inaccurate information in the application
  • Lack of clarity, including vague statements and unclear intentions
  • Failing to prove your financial stability or insufficient financial proof
  • Weak connections in family and inadequate ties to your home country
  • Concerns about your return, implying that you may stay back in the UK
  • Providing false information or documents to the visa authority
  • Non-Compliance with visa guidelines or requirements

How to Write a Winning Cover Letter for UK Visa?

Writing a winning cover letter for UK visa isn’t an easy task. The process can be daunting, but with this blog, you will have a proper guidance to propel to success. Check out our UK visit visa cover letter sample that includes the format, guidelines, and relevant instructions to draft an impressive cover letter.

Guidelines to help you Write Your Personalized Cover Letter for UK Visa

Check out these essential guidelines to write the perfect cover letter for UK visa .

  • Be specific and concise Keep your content clear and concise, leaving no scope for ambiguity. The cover letter for UK tourist visa should be succulent and focussed only on the purpose of your travel.
  • Follow the format Check out the UK standard visitor visa cover letter sample to understand the right format. Make sure to include a formal salutation, the date, your address, and the details of the recipient properly.
  • Transparency and honesty When you draft a cover letter for UK visa, be honest in all your statements. Remember, any inconsistency can lead to the rejection of your visa.
  • Focus on financial stability Your cover letter should clearly demonstrate your financial stature. This should convince the visa officials that you can cover the expenses of your trip and return to your homeland.
  • Strong family ties Your cover letter for UK tourist visa should express strong ties with your home and family. So, focus on your connections to your home country such as your family, property, business, or employment.
  • Professional language The language and pitch you use in your cover letter for UK tourist visa from India largely impact your chances of approval. Use a professional language throughout the letter, conveying your seriousness and respect.

What Format Should You Use In Your Cover Letter For UK Visa?

The format of your cover letter for UK visa defines the first impression on the visa officer. Therefore, choosing the right format is crucial to convey your professionalism, intent, and soft skills. A properly structured format can significantly boost the visual pleasure of your application. This gives you a greater opportunity to get it approved.

Here are the steps to write a cover letter for UK visa along with the recommended format you should follow.

cover letter for UK visa

  • Include embassy information

At the outset, provide relevant information about the embassy and specify the country from which you are applying.

  • Introduction

Introduce yourself comprehensively in the opening paragraph. Include your full name, passport number, details of citizenship, your current city and country of residence, and details about your career or profession. In case your visa was refused in the past, cite the reason for the denial.

  • Purpose of visit

Clearly explain the purpose of your visit to the UK in this paragraph. Also, mention your intended duration of the stay. If any of your family members or dependant is travelling with you, mention it in this section. Also, mention your travel history to the UK and whether you visited the country in the past.

  • Trip itinerary and financial information

Provide a detailed outline of your itinerary, as demonstrated in the sample cover letter for tourist visa application UK . Elaborate on your trip, specifying your planned accommodations in the country and how you plan to finance your stay. Also, include relevant details about your employment or profession, along with information on your financial stability.

  • Mention your supporting documents

In this section of your cover letter for UK visa , include the details of the documents you are submitting along with your visa application.

  • Your intention to return back

This is a vital section of your cover letter for UK tourist visa where you need to demonstrate genuine intentions to return to your homeland. If any of your family members are staying back at home, you can include their situation in this paragraph.

  • Provide contact information

Conclude your cover letter by sharing your personal contact details. This should include your email address and phone number.

Download Sample Cover Letter for UK Tourist Visa

A well-structured sample can serve as a valuable reference as you draft your cover letter. Download this sample cover letter for UK tourist visa to understand the desired quality, format, and pitch.

Ravi Sharma,

178/B, Picnic Garden Avenue,

Kolkata- 700024, West Bengal, 

UK Visa Application Centre,

123 Embassy Street,

New Delhi, 110001, India

Dear Visa Officer,

This cover letter for visa is in connection to my application for a UK Tourist Visa from India. I am excited about the opportunity to explore the United Kingdom for tourism purposes. I am a permanent resident of India, and my passport number is A1234567. I am currently residing in Kolkata, India, and I work as a software engineer at Accenture.

I hereby mention that my previous UK visa application was denied due to a lack of proper financial documentation. However, I have clearly provided all the details in this letter to make my application compliant with the necessary requirements.

 The purpose of my visit to the UK is purely for tourism and leisure. I wish to explore the rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and scenic beauty in the United Kingdom. The intended duration of my stay is 15 days, and I will be traveling alone on this trip. This is the first time I will be visiting the UK. This will be the first opportunity for me to explore your beautiful country.

I have meticulously planned my trip itinerary, reserving my accommodation at the London Hotel during my stay in the UK. I have adequate personal savings to fund this trip, which I have carefully put aside for this purpose. As a software engineer, I have a stable source of income. You will find the necessary financial documents herewith to validate my financial stability to support myself during the visit. 

Enclosed with this letter, you will find a comprehensive list of supporting documents, including my bank statements, travel itinerary, and proof of accommodation bookings. I remain committed to providing all necessary documentation to ensure a smooth and transparent visa application process.

I would like to assure you that I have strong ties to my home country. My wife, Sunita Jha, will be staying back in India during my trip to the UK. This explains why I cannot afford to overstay in the country and remain isolated from people close to my heart.

If you need to reach me for any further information or clarification regarding my application, please do not hesitate to contact me. My email ID is ………………., and you can also call me on …………… over the phone.

 Thank you for considering my application. I am genuinely looking forward to the opportunity to explore the UK and create lasting memories.

Thank you for your consideration and time

Ravi Sharma

  Email Address

Phone Number

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Crafting A Flawless UK Visa Cover Letter: Know The Formatting Essentials

A properly structured cover letter for UK visa can help you obtain your visa faster as you plan to visit the UK. Here are some essential guidelines that will help you format the document to enhance readability.

  • Details of the recipient
  • Formal greeting and salutation
  • Purpose of visit and intention
  • Itinerary and finances
  • Details of supporting documents
  • Intention to return
  • Contact information

Additional Tips For Write your Cover Letter for UK Visa

Now that you have checked out the UK tourist visa cover letter sample , here are some tips that should help you write a cover letter as impactful as this.

  • Keep your cover letter for UK visa clear and to the point, avoiding unnecessary details
  • Proofread and edit the cover letter to remove flaws like grammar and spelling errors
  • Maintain a professional and enthusiastic tone throughout the document
  • Provide accurate details about your trip, finances, and intentions
  • Focus on strong ties with your family members and homeland to ensure your return
  • Comply with specific guidelines provided by the embassy

Different types of cover letters to strengthen your UK visa

Check out the different types of cover letters for UK visa that you might need to strengthen your application. 

  • Cover letter for UK tourist Visa
  • Covering letter for UK business visa
  • Cover letter for UK student visa
  • Cover letter for UK seasonal visa
  • Cover letter for UK dependent visa
  • Cover letter spouse visa UK
  • Covering letter for family visitor visa UK

Final Checklist For Writing a Cover Letter

Whether you are writing a UK tourist visa cover letter from India or a letter to complement your business visa, here’s the final checklist you must read.

  • Address the cover letter for UK visa to the right authority
  • Write the letter in a professional tone to enhance quality
  • Leave no room for grammar or spelling errors in the letter
  • Follow the recommended format in the cover letter
  • Mention all the supporting documents and you intent of visit
  • Demonstrate your strong ties with your family and country

A cover letter for UK visa explains the purpose of your visit, financial stability, and ties to your home country. It goes a long way in strengthening your visa application and explains your intentions.

You must understand that a cover letter isn’t mandatory. However, writing a cover letter for UK visa for travellers, students, business professionals, and dependents enhances their chances of obtaining approval.

Your letter for UK visa should include the following details:

  • Your name and address
  • The details of the recipient
  • A formal salutation
  • The purpose of your visit
  • Details of the trip
  • Information about supporting documents
  • Your intention to return
  • Conclusion with contact information

Yes, we highly recommend using a template as a guide to write your cover letter for UK visa . However, take care to customize it to your specific situation. 

In case your previous UK visa application was rejected, address the issue for rejection and justify your stance in the cover letter. Explain how you have rectified these issues or present a change in circumstances to increase your chances of your approval.

While there’s no strict word limit, try to be clear and concise. Ideally, keep it within one page. Make sure to focus only on the key details. This will help you prepare a strong cover letter for your visa application.

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Mr. Sugathan

Mr. Sugathan is the founder of Professional Writing Services. He is an Army veteran who served the nation for more than two decades. During his tenure, he was involved in a lot of documentation and secretarial works. He has been drafting letters and documents on a daily basis.

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sample cover letter uk visa

  • Entering and staying in the UK
  • Visas and entry clearance
  • Visit and transit visas
  • Visit visa: guide to supporting documents
  • UK Visas and Immigration

Visiting the UK: guide to supporting documents

Updated 1 February 2024

sample cover letter uk visa

© Crown copyright 2024

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visitor-visa-guide-to-supporting-documents/guide-to-supporting-documents-visiting-the-uk

To visit the UK, you need to show that you’re a genuine visitor.

You can do this by providing evidence that:

  • you’re coming to do a permitted activity – see Appendix Visitor: Permitted Activities
  • you’ll leave the UK at the end of your visit
  • you’re able to support yourself and any dependants for the duration of your trip
  • you’re able to pay for your return or onward journey and any other costs relating to your visit

Wherever possible, digital images should be taken of original documents, not copies.

If you submit a document that is not in English or Welsh, it must be accompanied by a full translation that can be independently verified by the Home Office. Each translation must contain:

  • confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document
  • the date of translation
  • the translator’s full name and signature
  • the translator’s contact details

You do not need to provide multiple copies of the same documents if you’re applying as a family or group at the same time.

If you’re applying to visit the UK as part of a Chinese tour group, you should read the specific guidance for ADS visitors .

Further information about coming to the UK as a visitor can be found in Appendix V: Visitor of the Immigration Rules and in the Visitor Guidance .

Submitting or presenting any of the documents listed below does not guarantee that your application for a visit visa or entry at the border will be successful. You should bear this in mind when making any bookings, particularly if you need to apply for a visitor visa before you travel to the UK.

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 use it to apply for a visa.

Some passport holders may need to provide alternative evidence of their identity and nationality.

2. Demonstrating personal circumstances

If you are intending to visit the UK you will need to show that you are a genuine visitor who is coming to the UK to undertake a permitted activity, that you will leave at the end of your visit and that you have sufficient funds for yourself and any dependants to cover all reasonable costs in relation to your visit.

It is recommended that you provide information about your circumstances in your home country and details of the activity that you will be doing in the UK.

The following provides information about the types of documents that you might want to provide to help us consider your application against the Immigration Rules for Visitors ( Appendix V: Visitor ). This list is not exhaustive.

  • what you will be doing in the UK, the reason for your visit and whether any costs are being met, including any letters from inviting or sending organisations
  • a letter from your employer on company headed paper, detailing your role, salary and length of employment
  • a letter from your education provider, on headed paper, confirming your enrolment and leave of absence
  • business registration documents or recent invoices that confirm on-going self-employment
  • copies of previous passports showing evidence of travel to other countries
  • confirmation of legal residence, if you are not a national of the country in which you are applying or your right to reside there is not included in your passport
  • bank statements which detail the origin of the funds held
  • building society books which detail the origin of the funds held
  • proof of earnings, such as a letter from your employer confirming employment details (start date of employment, salary, role, company contact details)

3. If you have a sponsor

If someone else (your sponsor) is providing your travel, maintenance or accommodation you should provide evidence showing:

  • what support is being provided and whether it extends to any dependent family
  • how this support is being provided

the person supporting you has enough funds to adequately support themselves and their dependents

the relationship between you and the sponsor, for example if they’re your family member or your employer

  • the person supporting you is legally in the UK (if applicable), for example if they have a British passport or residence document

4. If you’re a child (under 18)

You should show a legal document showing the relationship between you and at least 1 of your parents or guardians, for example a birth certificate or adoption papers.

You should show a copy of the photo page of at least 1 parent’s or guardian’s passport, including their signature and passport number, if they’re not also applying for a visa.

If you have a different family name to your parent/guardian, you may be asked to provide evidence of your relationship. Evidence you can provide may include:

a birth or adoption certificate showing your relationship to your parent or guardian

a divorce or marriage certificate for your parent or guardian

4.1 If you’re not travelling with your parent or guardian

You should provide additional documents to show that your parent or guardian is aware of your travel plans and that they give you permission to enter the UK. Your application may be refused if you don’t.

You should provide a signed letter from your parent or guardian confirming your travel arrangements, including:

  • your parent or guardian’s consent for you to travel to the UK
  • who’s travelling with you – you’ll need to provide their passport number if they’re an adult
  • who’ll look after you while you’re in the UK
  • how you’ll travel to the UK
  • If your parent or guardian does not have a passport, you should provide another official document that includes their signature

5. Visiting for business purposes

  • the relationship between you and the sponsor, for example if they’re your family member or your employer)

6. Attendees of business-related events or conferences

If you are attending a business event or conference, you should provide a letter of invitation from the organiser of the event you are attending.

7. Intra-corporate visits

If you are visiting the UK to work with your UK based colleagues you should provide a letter from your employer confirming this, and if this will involve working with clients, your employer should confirm that this is not the main purpose of your visit.

8. Wet lease arrangements

If you are a pilot or cabin crew member travelling to the UK to work temporarily under a wet lease agreement, you should provide a letter from your employer confirming that you are employed by them and that a wet lease agreement is in place.

9. Visiting for training, research or paid engagements

9.1 academics coming to undertake research (12-month visa).

You should show that you’re highly qualified and working in your field at an academic or higher education institution. For example, you could provide:

  • a letter from your employer outlining the research to be undertaken
  • a letter from the UK host organisation confirming the arrangements for your research or exchange

You should check if you need a TB test .

You should check if your family members need a TB test if you’re bringing them to the UK with you.

9.2 Performers at one or more permit-free festivals

You may want to provide a letter of invitation from the organisers of each event, including the dates of your performances and details of any payments you’ll receive.

9.3 Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) test and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) test

You’ll need to provide a letter from the General Medical Council or Nursing and Midwifery Council confirming your test.

9.4 Work-related training – unpaid clinical attachments and dental observer posts

You’ll need to provide confirmation of your offer to undertake a clinical attachment or dental observer post, that it involves no treatment of patients and that you’ve not previously undertaken this activity in the UK.

You should provide an acceptance letter from your course provider confirming the details of the course.

9.6 Study – medical electives 

You must provide written confirmation from your UK Higher Education provider confirming you have been accepted to undertake an elective relevant to your course of study overseas.

9.7 Study – research placements  

You must provide confirmation from your overseas course provider that the research or research tuition is part of, or relevant to, the course you’re doing overseas.

9.8 Permitted Paid Engagements

You’ll need to provide an invitation letter showing why you’re carrying out the engagement and how long it’s for from a relevant UK-based organisation, such as:

  • a Higher Education institution
  • an organisation in the creative arts or entertainment industries
  • a sports organisation, agent or broadcaster
  • a research organisation
  • an aviation training organisation regulated by the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority
  • a client, if you are a lawyer
  • the organiser of a conference or seminar confirming your invitation to speak at their event

You should provide evidence of professional status in your home country or expertise, depending on the engagement.

9.9 Lecturers or examiners

You can provide:

  • the names or details of your publications in your field of expertise
  • dates and times of lectures you’ve given in that field
  • a letter from your employer confirming where you work and your area of expertise

9.10 Entertainers/artists/sports people

  • dates and times of performances, screenings, concerts, talks, readings and exhibitions
  • details of any awards you’ve received
  • proof of recent performances

9.11 Air pilot examiners

You should provide evidence showing you’ve been invited by an approved training organisation. They must be based in the UK and regulated by the UK Civil Aviation Authority .

9.12 Lawyers

You’ll need to provide evidence that you’re a qualified lawyer, for example a practising certificate or equivalent document.

You should also show you’ve been invited to represent a client in the UK court, for example confirmation of your right to audience, or ‘temporary call’ (where required).

10. Visiting for private medical treatment

If you’re applying to visit the UK as an S2 Healthcare Visitor, you should read the specific guidance for S2 Healthcare Visitors

10.1 Private Medical Treatment

You’ll need to provide a letter written by a doctor or consultant , that includes:

  • details of the condition requiring consultation or treatment
  • estimated cost and likely duration of any treatment
  • details of where the consultation or treatment will take place.

If you are coming to the UK to receive medical treatment as part of a reciprocal healthcare arrangement between your country and the UK, you must provide an authorisation form from that country.

You should check if you need a TB test if you’re applying for an 11 month visa.

If you’re applying to extend your stay in the UK to receive private medical treatment you must show:

  • a letter explaining your medical condition from a registered medical practitioner
  • you’ve met the costs of the treatment you’ve already received

If you’re applying to extend your stay in the UK to continue receiving medical treatment as part of a reciprocal healthcare arrangement between your country and the UK, you must provide an authorisation form from that country which authorises further treatment.

10.2 Organ donors

You’ll need to provide a letter from either the lead nurse of the transplant team or a GMC-registered specialist , dated no more than 3 months before you intend to arrive in the UK, confirming:

  • you’re a confirmed match to the recipient with whom you have a genetic or close personal relationship, or you’re being tested to determine whether you are a potential donor
  • when and where the transplant or tests will take place

You should show the intended recipient is legally resident in the UK, such as a copy of their British passport or residence permit. You should provide the intended recipient’s name, nationality and date of birth if they are not legally resident in the UK and are applying for a visa at the same time.

11. Visiting for your marriage or civil partnership

You must apply for a marriage or civil partnership visitor visa to enter the UK to marry, form a civil partnership, or give notice of this.

You should provide evidence that you intend to give notice, marry or form a civil partnership during your stay, for example an appointment confirmation with a registrar or booking confirmation for your reception. If you’ve been married or in a civil partnership before, you should provide documents to show that you are free to marry or form a civil partnership.

You must be over 18.

12. Passing through the UK in transit

You should provide evidence that:

  • your outward journey from the UK has been confirmed and is within 48 hours of arrival, for example travel booking confirmation
  • you can enter the country you’re travelling to, for example a valid visa or residence permit

Further information can be found on the Visitor in Transit visa pages or in the Transit Guidance .

13. Documents you should not use as evidence

Some types of documents are less useful as evidence in visit applications. These include:

  • bank statements or letters issued more than 1 year before the date of application
  • credit card statements
  • driving licence
  • educational certificates that are not listed as required for your visa
  • evidence of car ownership
  • personal photographs
  • notarial certificates
  • business cards
  • hotel bookings
  • flight bookings (unless transiting)
  • photocopies of bank cards
  • certificates relating to leisure activities, for example sports trophies
  • travel insurance
  • sponsor’s utility bills
  • sponsor’s council tax bills

You may be asked to provide additional information by a decision maker.

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Personal musings of a Filipina in the UK

Applicant’s Cover Letter Sample For UK Visit Visa/Tourist Visa Application

Applicant’s Cover Letter Sample For UK Visit Visa/Tourist Visa Application

Take a look at this applicant’s cover letter sample. Basically, a cover letter states the purpose of your travel, planned travel dates and duration of stay in the UK, itineraries, proof of travel funding, if you have a sponsor, state your relationship to the sponsor and the circumstances of such. You may also want to add explanations regarding some of the supporting documents you want to be highlighted for easy understanding on the part of the Entry Clearance Officer.

I hope the sample I have gives you an idea of how you write yours.

Good luck with your application and I hope you’d get the most precious visa vignette stamped on your passport page!

COVER LETTER PIC

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One thought on “ applicant’s cover letter sample for uk visit visa/tourist visa application ”.

excellent guidance, Thank you

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How to Write a Cover Letter for a UK Visa

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Getting a visitor visa to the United Kingdom needs one persuading the Entry clearance officer to give approval. You would need to convince the ECO that you have met the entire visa requirement and that you have no intention of staying beyond the stated time.

The entry clearance officer needs to be convinced that you are genuine and would not hesitate to return to our home country. To achieve this will need you to write a compelling cover letter for UK visitor Visa to the immigration officer.

So the cover letter for UK visitor visit is a document that will give additional information to back up a UK visa Application. The letter will provide an extra detail that wasn’t asked in the UK visa application. The cover letter is one document that will aid in increasing the chances of getting the approval for the visa. The truth is that most questions asked on the visa application are just close-ended, so you might not have the space to explain.

So convincing the ECO is really important and the cover letter will help in this regards.

Writing a cover letter for your UK visitor visa might not be compulsory but it will be very helpful. It will afford you the opportunity of explaining every detail in your own words. You would be as descriptive as possible.

With the cover letter you would be able to convince the Entry clearance officer because it will allow you express yourself in a simple, short but clear manner. Writing an effective cover letter will need you adopting the right format and including in it the information that will interest the officer. You would need to grab the attention of the recipient to get the needed result. The below writing guide will give you the accurate details to adopt to write your letter to perfection.

  • Begin with giving a summary of your visa application, then list out the documents you are attaching to your letter
  • State the purpose of your visit and why you believe you wouldn’t stay your allowed period
  • Mention the dependents that you are also applying for if need be, then go ahead to clearly state how you intend to maintain yourself during the UK visit
  • If you have one, then state as well if your sponsors have met all the sponsor requirements
  • Give a confirmation that you are not using successive or frequent visits to make the country your main stay
  • Keep the details relevant to the subject matter, no exaggeration or deviation.

Also Read: How to Apply for UK Visa in Nigeria

Below are the samples cover letters for UK Visitor visa

The Entry Clearance Officer

British Embassy

678 Lincoln Road

United Kingdom

RE: Ms Celine Visitor Visa Application, Passport Number; 457654 Expiry Date; May 20th, 2012

This letter is written with the intention of expatiating on the information on application on myself and on the purpose of me needing a UK visitor visa. So I’m Celine Lawrence and I will be 40 years on the 3 rd of Feb 2012. I have been working as an Engineer in landmark construction for about 8 years now. My country is affiliated to the renounced primetime construction and we execute main federal government jobs. I have been a regular employee since after my 6 months probation period of joining the company. I receive an annual salary of $40,000 and my monthly salary is $3500 that is divided in the below categories

For my taxable is $500

Honorarium is $2500

Allowance is $500

I had met my finance on the Badoo dating site on the January and we have just being communicating only via email and chats. Though he has been making attempt to come to Nigeria but his job routine has not allowed that for now. So I’m free now and will be permitted for my leave of work for about 48 days. So I want to use this opportunity to meet up with him.

I will like to leave for the UK on April 10 th , 2012  and will return to my country on May 10 th . My finance Mr. Tom will be paying all the expenses associated with the trip which includes my accommodation, airfare and living expenses. I have attached to this letter all the documents needed to get an approval.

Yours sincerely

Celine Lawrence

Dec 2 nd , 2021

Entry clearance officer

456-987-654

Re; Visitor visa for George Job, passport number 66798 Expiry Date; 3 rd July 2021

This letter is coming your way to give you additional information that might interest you more about my visitor visa application. My name is George Job and I work as a medical scientist in the US. My company is incorporated in a pharmaceutical company that is based in Japan. I’m a regular worker that receives $60,000 yearly and splitting this into months will make it $5000 per month. This payment includes my taxable income, allowances and other expenses.

I’m trying to visit my friend in the UK, this is why I’m applying for the visitor visa and I want to be there for only 2 weeks. I would have to return to work after the expiration of this period so this confirms that I wouldn’t be staying beyond the time or duration on my visa. I will be taking care of all the expenses associated with the trip though my friend also wants to sponsor the trip. Whichever way, this also confirms that the trip will adequately provided for.

Thanks you for your approval

Yours sincerely,

The entry clearance officers need to be convinced that one applying for a visitor visa to the UK is a genuine person. The best avenue to use for a purpose like this is by writing a cover letter, as the cover letter will show one’s purpose of travel, proof of funds, copies of supporting document, planned of travel dates and other important information.

To write this letter to perfection, you just need to follow the above guidelines as enumerated above. The samples are excellent templates you can take advantage of them by customizing any to your taste.

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How to write a detailed Cover Letter for UK Standard Visitor Visa

Cover Letter for UK Standard Visitor Visa

What is a Cover Letter for Visa?

A cover letter is an integral part of any visa application. It is a letter written by the applicant to express any personal intent in convincing the ECO (Entry Clearance Officer) that you are a genuine and credible applicant. In applying for UK Visa, it is rare that they will interview an applicant. A cover letter will be very useful in highlighting points and providing more information regarding the application.

What is a UK Standard Visitor Visa?

A UK Standard Visitor Visa is a Visa a foreign national need to acquire if they wish to visit the UK for up to short period of time or up to 6 months. You can check here if you need a visa . Tourism, visiting family members or friends, medical visit or short courses of up to 6 months fall under Standard Visitor Visa.

How to write a detailed Cover Letter for UK Standard Visitor Visa?

A compelling Cover Letter should be well sections or headed for easy understanding. It should include the following information about you and your circumstances.

  • Introduction and travelling companions’ details if you have any . A quick introduction of yourself, and the purpose of the letter is always an easy and clear way to start. It will give the Clearance Officer an overview of you, as the applicant. This is also the best part to tell about your travel companion (if you have any) who will apply the same time as you.
  • Reasons why you want to obtain UK Standard Visitor Visa . Examples for reason for visiting could be, tourism or visiting family and friends. It is very important to elaborate the reasons to make it easier for the case worker to understand. If you are visiting for tourism you can put things like ” I would like to visit UK as it has been always in my dream to explore the beautiful sights of London. I would also like to take the opportunity to celebrate my wife and I’s 10th year wedding anniversary.”. For family visit you can then say ” The main purpose of my visit is spend some time with my sister and her family. I would also like to attend my niece’s graduation. Whatever your reasons are just put it here and be honest with it.
  • Your Financial Situation . To prove you are a genuine visitor, showing evidence of your finances is a critical part of you application. Although you are submitting all the necessary documents with the application, it is still very important to highlight the means of your trip. If you have any deposits or any other source of income that’s not part of your salary then this is the best place to explain it. Money from parents, family members or from selling some belongings, its all good only if you can explain it. your caseworker don’t want any unexplainable money.
  • Intention and Reasons to return to your country of origin . This is also known as your strong ties to your home country. The Home Office would like to know you won’t overstay and to prove this you should be able to see your intention to go back to your country of residence. Work, family members, properties under your name, studying, businesses you own, these are all good reasons to leave the UK after your intended visit.
  • Travel History . Another good way to show you are a genuine visitor is to highlight your previous travels. It will give them the impressions that this trip is with good intention. You can say “Travelling is always something I like to do. I work really hard and going to different places is a way for me to recharge and enjoy life. In the last 5 years I have travelled to 5 countries, some with families and some of them were spent with friends. Attached is the copy of all my visa stamps”. It’s completely up to you to mention all or a few of those countries you have visited in the past.
  • Itinerary . This needs to be realistic financially and should coincide with your purpose of travel. If you say you’re travelling to the United Kingdom to spend some time with your family members it should show in your itinerary. Also, be mindful of your bank balance, although there is no specific amount of money needed for a tourist visa, it is important that your itinerary is believable. you can’t say you’ll be eating out at 5* restaurants every day and not having enough money for it.
  • Sponsor Details (if applicable). If this travel is self-sufficient, then this doesn’t apply to you. A sponsor is someone who will cover all or some expenses of your trip. It could be a family member who will finance you while you are in the UK, or a friend who will let you use his/her place for accommodation. Whatever and whoever is going to sponsor you should include their names, their relation to you, what are they willing to sponsor you with and their status in the UK. If the sponsor will provide you with accommodation, then they’ll have to submit their Tenancy Agreement if they are renting or Proof of Ownership if they own the property. If someone is sponsoring you financially then their Bank Statements is necessary and they have to specify in their Invitation Letter that amount they are willing to spend on you.
  • List of included documents (Optional). You’ll see the sample of my cover letter here that I didn’t include a list of included documents, but I know most people do. I felt like it will take up so much space from my cover letter. What I did though was create a separate page for my list of documents, this also serves as my table of contents. I’ll say this part is completely up to you.

Sample Cover Letter - UK Standard Visitor Visa

That’s it guys! I believe all these informations will help you get that Visa you so much deserve. Don’t forget to check out my 7 Best Things to do in London , when you arrive. Have fun on your travels!

This can also be use with any visa application to other counties as long as you edit the details accordingly.

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Letter TEMPLATES

Uk spouse & partner visa, applications.

   

sample cover letter uk visa

Our Professionally written Letter Templates will help you to put together essential Cover Letters, Supporting statements, Declarations or Consent letters for your UK Spouse/Partner Visa Application .

Our Templates have been used in hundreds of successful client cases .

Each template has been designed to:

  • Include all of the  critical details that are relevant to your case
  • Provide  suggestions on what to include  in your letter
  • Easily fill in your and/or your sponsor's personal information

sample cover letter uk visa

For Spouse/Partner Applications made Outside the UK when:

  • Applying to join and settle with your British Spouse / Partner in the UK
  • Applying as a Fiancé(e) to Marry and Settle with your British Partner in the UK
  • Returning with your British Spouse / Partner back to the UK after living together overseas

sample cover letter uk visa

For Spouse/Partner Applications made Inside the UK when:

  • Applying to Extend or Renew your current UK Spouse / Partner Visa
  • Converting your Fiance(e) / Proposed Civil Partner Visa to a Spouse / Partner Visa
  • Applying to Switch to the Partner Route from another Visa Category

Why you need to include certain Letters with your Visa Application

Cover Letter and Support Letter Templates

Cover letters are the best way to summarise your case and confirm how you meet all of the requirements for your/your partner's visa, to the caseworker who will be assessing your application at the Home Office.

  • Applicant's Cover Letter
  • Sponsor's Letter of Support
  • Statement from Third Party (your friends & family)

Templates for Employment/Financial Evidence

Depending on you and/or your partner’s financial circumstances, you may need certain letters to satisfy the Financial Requirement of the Immigration Rules.

  • Letter from your Employer
  • Declaration of source of your Savings
  • Letter from your Accountant

Accommodation Letter Templates

Living in rented accommodation or a property owned by family/friends?  You will need either a:

  • Letter from your Landlord
  • Letter of consent from your Family member/friend

How Clients Rate Our Visa Letter Templates

sample cover letter uk visa

Frequently Asked Questions about the Letter Templates

Who are these for?

Depending on your and/or your partner's circumstances, you may need to provide declaration, consent, or other letters of support with your application.

These templates will save you and your partner’s time, and provide full peace of mind that you will write and structure the letter(s) to satisfy the Immigration Rules.

Are they appropriate for me and/or my partner?

These templates are designed to assist those who want to complete their UK Partner visa process themselves, but need to know how to put together supporting/consent letters to address specific aspects of the application, for example, if you are/will be living in your family or friend's accomodation,  or you will be relying on savings to meet the financial requirement.

How do we use the letter templates?

The letter templates have been structured and designed so that it is easy to incorporate your personal information and situation.

It will be clearly marked where you will need to enter/confirm further info,  in each template.

For example:

Sponsor's Name  has been employed by Company Name  as a Job Title  since DD/MM/YYYY .  

His/Her salary is £ XX,XXX per annum, and he/she has been paid this level of salary since his/her employment commenced.

Is there a the Money Back Guarantee?

No, Refunds are not available for our Letter Templates, once you have downloaded them. 

The onus will be on you: 

  • To decide and purchase the correct template(s) that is/are appropriate for your case
  • Include the correct/relevant information in your actual letter(s). The templates only provide the structure and suggestions of the wording to use in your respective letter.

How Long will it take to receive my Template?

Immediately after purchase. 

Each template is a Microsoft Word Document which comes in a downloadable Zip file.

If I buy a Template, am I allowed to ask you questions about my application?

No, if you would like specific advice about your Visa application, We also offer a 25 minute consultation service for £120 which you can book here .

What format will the letter templates be in?

They will all be in Microsoft Word format packaged together in a Zip file.

Is there a discount if I buy several templates together

No. We have made each individual template as affordable as possibe.

If you are looking for a more comprehensive template bundle, checkout our ' Tailored Checklist and Letter Templates Pack ' HERE

Want more Professional Support and Guidance for your

Uk spouse/partner visa application.

Spouse Visa UK Help | Melanie Wong

We pride ourselves on our High Success Rate for all UK Spouse/Partner Visa Applications we have been fully instructed to take on.

To help you achieve a successful outcome for you/your loved one(s), we have put together a range of Services and Tools specifically for UK Spouse/Partner Visa Applications including Step-by-Step Guides, Templates, DIY Application Packs, Documents Checking Service and More!

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128 City Road, London,

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sample cover letter uk visa

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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 .

sample cover letter uk visa

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.

woman writing a letter at a table

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.

<Your Name>

<Your Address>

<Your phone number>

<Your email address>

<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,

<your signature>

<your name>

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 .

We can help you with your immigration issues and queries.

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    Take a look at this applicant's cover letter sample. Basically, a cover letter states the purpose of your travel, planned travel dates and duration of stay in the UK, itineraries, proof of travel funding, if you have a sponsor, state your relationship to the sponsor and the circumstances of such. You may also want to add explanations ...

  14. What to write in your Visit Visa (UK) Cover Letter

    Write your Visit Visa (UK) cover letter to the UKVI using a writing assistant, Writesonic, which eliminates the hours of writing the letter. If you want to t...

  15. How to Write a Cover Letter for a UK Visa

    Below are the samples cover letters for UK Visitor visa. Sample 1. The Entry Clearance Officer. British Embassy. 678 Lincoln Road. United Kingdom. RE: Ms Celine Visitor Visa Application, Passport Number; 457654 Expiry Date; May 20th, 2012. Dear Sir, This letter is written with the intention of expatiating on the information on application on ...

  16. How to write a detailed Cover Letter for UK Standard Visitor Visa

    A compelling Cover Letter should be well sections or headed for easy understanding. It should include the following information about you and your circumstances. Introduction and travelling companions' details if you have any. A quick introduction of yourself, and the purpose of the letter is always an easy and clear way to start.

  17. 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.

  18. 65+ UK Cover Letter Examples for Job Applications in 2024

    Concise Cover Letter Example. 1. Copy-and-paste cover letter sample. Use this text copy-and-paste blank cover letter sample to get instructions on filling in your letter: Download this cover letter example for Microsoft Word. Use This Template.

  19. Letter Templates for UK Spouse & Partner Visa Applications

    Our Professionally written Letter Templates will help you to put together essential Cover Letters, Supporting statements, Declarations or Consent letters for your UK Spouse/Partner Visa Application. Our Templates have been used in hundreds of successful client cases. Each template has been designed to: Include all of the critical details that ...

  20. How to Write a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa + Sample

    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 ...

  21. Cover letter examples and templates

    When you're applying for a job, a cover letter lets you show a personal side and demonstrate why hiring you is a smart decision. Cover letters should be around three paragraphs long and include specific examples from your past experience that make you qualified for the position.A cover letter should include the following parts: Header.