Invitation Letter for UK Visa – Free Template & Guide

What is an Invitation Letter for a UK Visa?

An invitation letter, also referred to as a sponsorship letter, is a document written by a UK-based sponsor to support a friend, family member, or partner’s UK visitor visa or UK family visa application.

This letter serves to establish the relationship between the sponsor and the visitor while demonstrating that the sponsor can provide financial support or accommodation for the visitor throughout their stay in the UK.

The primary purpose of the letter is to formally invite the visitor to stay at the sponsor’s residence. It should include key details about both the sponsor and the visitor, as well as information about the visit, ensuring a clear and comprehensive overview of the planned stay.

Additionally, relevant supporting documents should be attached to substantiate the details provided in the invitation letter. An invitation letter for a UK visa is a document written by a UK resident (the host) inviting a foreign visitor to the UK. The letter explains the purpose of the visit and confirms that the host will provide support during the stay.

Requirements and Eligibility for Writing an Invitation Letter for a UK Visa

Firstly, they must be legally residing in the UK, either as a citizen, permanent resident, or visa holder. This confirms their authority to support the visitor’s application.

Secondly, the sponsor must have a clear, verifiable relationship with the applicant, such as being a friend, family member, partner, or spouse. The Home Office requires proof of this relationship, so the letter should include details on how they know the visitor to avoid complications.

Additionally, the sponsor must provide accommodation details, specifying whether they own or rent the property and ensuring there is enough space for the visitor. If the visitor will stay elsewhere during part of the trip (e.g., a hotel), this should also be noted.

The author of the letter must be fully aware of its contents and ready to verify any information if questioned by immigration authorities. All information must be accurate, as inconsistencies can negatively impact the visa application.

Finally, the sponsor must ensure their home has sufficient space to accommodate the visitor comfortably. The Home Office considers these factors when reviewing the invitation letter, so proof of accommodation may be required.

Sample Invitation Letter

This template can be edited to fit your needs, whether you need an invitation letter for a UK visa for parents, friends, or family. After completing your letter, ensure any supporting documentation is accurately translated.

Below is a simple example of an invitation letter for a UK visitor visa.

    📍 Host’s Address:
    [Your Name]
    [Your Address in the UK]
    [City, Postcode]
    [Your Contact Email]
    [Your Phone Number]
    [Date]

    📍 Embassy Details:
    The Entry Clearance Officer
    [Name of UK Embassy or Consulate]
    [City, Country]

    📍 Subject: Invitation Letter for UK Visitor Visa

    Dear Sir/Madam,

    I, [Your Full Name], a resident of the United Kingdom with [Your Immigration Status], am writing to invite [Visitor’s Full Name] to visit the UK for [duration] from [arrival date] to [departure date].

    [Visitor’s Full Name] is my [relationship] and holds a passport from [Country] (Passport No: [Passport Number]). The purpose of the visit is [reason for visit, e.g., family reunion, holiday, special event].

    During the stay, [Visitor’s Name] will be residing at my home at [Your Address]. I will be responsible for their accommodation and [mention if you will cover other expenses].

    I have attached a copy of my [passport, BRP, or utility bill] to support this application. Please feel free to contact me for any further information.

    Sincerely,
    [Your Full Name]

Documents Your Guest Will Need to Provide for Their UK Visa Application

To support their UK visa application, your guest will typically need to provide a range of documents. The exact requirements depend on their individual circumstances, but common documents include:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for the duration of their stay in the UK.
• Visa Application Form: A completed and signed application form.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Meeting the UK visa photo specifications.
• Proof of Funds: Bank statements, pay slips, or other documents demonstrating they can support themselves financially during their visit. If the host is providing financial support, the host's bank statements may also be required.
• Proof of Accommodation: If not staying with the host, hotel booking confirmations or other proof of accommodation.
• Travel Itinerary: Details of their planned travel to and from the UK.
• Evidence of Ties to Home Country: Documents demonstrating their intention to return to their home country after their visit (e.g., employment letter, property ownership documents, family responsibilities).
• Birth Certificate: Especially important if the visitor needs to prove a family relationship with the host.
• Marriage Certificate: If applicable, to prove a marital relationship.
• Criminal Record Check: In some cases, a criminal record check may be required.

Important: All documents that are not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation.