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Family Invitation Letters for Visitor Visas

  • Updated

If your guests plan to apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa, it is important to understand what documentation is required for the visa application process.

Invitation Letters

International Student Services does not issue family invitation letters for B-1/B-2 visitor visa applications.

According to the U.S. Department of State, invitation letters are not considered when determining whether to approve or deny a visitor visa application. Visa decisions are based primarily on the applicant's own circumstances, including their residence abroad and ties to their home country.

"Visa applicants must qualify on the basis of the applicant's residence and ties abroad, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa. " -https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visitor.html 

Writing Your Own Invitation Letter

If you still would like to provide an invitation letter to your family member or friend for commencement, you may write one yourself.

In your letter, make sure to include:

  • The embassy address
  • The name of your intuition 
  • Your full name (as it appears on your passport)
  • Your guest's full name (as it appears on their passport)
  • Your degree
  • Your graduation date 

Please note that providing an invitation letter does not guarantee that a visitor visa will be approved.

Important Information

  • Visitor visa eligibility is determined solely by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. consular officer conducting the visa interview.
  • Applicants must demonstrate that they qualify for a visitor visa based on their own circumstances, including their intent to return to their home country after their temporary visit.
  • A letter of invitation or an Affidavit of Support is not required as part of a B-1/B-2 visitor visa application and is not a factor in the visa decision.
  • Students who wish to provide an invitation letter may use the Sample Invitation Letter template available through International Student Services.

For additional information, visit the U.S. Department of State Visitor Visa webpage.