Writing an invitation letter for a UK visa involves more than simply expressing a wish for someone to visit. It’s a formal document that plays a critical role in the visa application process, particularly for standard visitor visas. The letter should communicate the purpose of the visit, the relationship between the inviter and invitee, and offer sufficient evidence of financial and accommodation support if applicable.
At Axis Solicitors we help you in preparing an invitation letter that contains all the requirements that are essential for a smooth and seamless experience, but keep in mind that an invitation letter does not guarantee visa approval, but a well-written one can strengthen the application. It shows the UK’s Home Office that the visit has a clear, lawful, and well-supported reason.
Who Can Write an Invitation Letter for UK Visa?
An invitation letter for a UK visa must be written by someone who is legally residing in the UK. This can include:
- British citizens
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) holders
- EU nationals settled or pre-settled under the EU Settlement Scheme
- Skilled workers or students with valid leave to remain
The inviter must have a genuine relationship with the applicant — typically family, relatives, or close friends. For business visits, the letter can be issued by a UK-based company or organisation. In either case, the inviter must be willing and able to provide supporting documentation if requested.
Legal Responsibilities of the Inviter
While writing an invitation letter does not create legal obligations, if the letter includes a financial undertaking (i.e. sponsorship), the Home Office may expect the inviter to cover costs related to accommodation, food, travel, and even emergency expenses. Therefore, honesty and clarity are essential.
Unsure if you need an invitation letter for UK visa purposes? Speak to our legal team at Axis Solicitors for clear, tailored guidance.
What to Include in an Invitation Letter for UK Visa
A properly structured invitation letter for UK visa can make a significant difference in the success of a visitor’s application. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) expects clarity, legitimacy, and factual support in every invitation letter for a UK visa. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the essential elements to include in your letter.
1. Inviter’s Full Personal Information
Your invitation letter for UK visa must begin with accurate personal details of the inviter:
- Full legal name (as shown in passport)
- Full residential address in the UK
- Contact number and email address
- Immigration status in the UK (e.g., British citizen, ILR holder, Tier 2 worker, student)
2. Applicant’s Full Information
The applicant’s personal details must be correctly stated:
- Full name (as in passport)
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Relationship to the inviter
Clear identification of both parties establishes transparency in the invitation letter for UK visa.
3. Purpose of the Visit
You should clearly explain why the applicant is coming to the UK. The invitation letter for UK visa must answer:
- What is the reason for the visit? (e.g., tourism, family reunion, attending a wedding, medical treatment)
- Why now? (any relevant dates or events)
- How long will they stay?
- Where will they be staying?
The more specific the invitation letter for UK visa, the more reliable it appears to UKVI.
4. Duration and Dates of Stay
Provide exact intended dates of entry and departure. UKVI wants to ensure that the visit is time-limited. The invitation letter for a UK visa should show that the trip is temporary and that the applicant will return to their home country.
5. Accommodation Details
If you’re providing accommodation, state it explicitly in the invitation letter for UK visa. Mention:
- Where the guest will stay (your home or another property)
- Whether it is free or paid
- That it meets legal living space requirements (especially in rented housing)
This helps UKVI assess whether the applicant has adequate arrangements during their stay.
6. Financial Support (if applicable)
If you’re sponsoring the applicant financially, mention this in your UK visa invitation letter and back it up with evidence. Clarify:
- Whether you’re covering travel costs, daily expenses, or both
- If the applicant is self-funding, your letter should state this and confirm your role is only to host, not sponsor
7. Declaration of Relationship and Responsibility
Your invitation letter for UK visa should briefly state your relationship and any responsibilities you’ll undertake during the applicant’s visit. Example:
“I confirm that I will be responsible for providing accommodation and assisting with local transport during their stay.”
This shows UKVI that the visitor will have support and guidance.
8. Supporting Evidence Mention
Conclude the invitation letter for UK visa by referencing the supporting documents you are including with it, such as:
- Copy of your UK passport or BRP
- Proof of address
- Employment confirmation or financial statements
This ensures consistency between the letter and the supporting bundle.
9. Signature and Date
A signed and dated invitation letter for UK visa looks professional and complete. Digital signatures are acceptable for online submissions; hand signatures work for physical applications.
Need help drafting the perfect invitation letter for UK visa? Axis Solicitors can ensure it meets all UKVI requirements.
Sample Invitation Letter for UK Visa
Below is a professionally structured invitation letter for a UK standard visitor visa. This template can be adapted depending on whether the invitee is a family member, friend, or business associate.
[Your Full Name]
[Your Full Address in the UK]
[City, Postcode]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
UK Visas and Immigration
Home Office
[Optional: Address of the local visa application centre]
Subject: Invitation Letter for UK Visitor Visa – [Applicant’s Full Name]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to confirm that I wish to invite [Applicant’s Full Name], born on [Date of Birth], holding passport number [Passport Number], to visit me in the United Kingdom for a short stay from [Start Date] to [End Date].
I am a [Your Immigration Status, e.g., British Citizen] currently residing at [Your Full UK Address]. I am employed as a [Your Occupation] with [Company Name], and I have attached evidence of my status and employment for your reference.
[Applicant’s Full Name] is my [State Relationship, e.g., cousin, friend, parent]. We have known each other for [X years], and we maintain regular contact. The purpose of this visit is to [Explain Reason – holiday, attend family wedding, visit family, etc.].
During the entire duration of the visit, I will provide full accommodation at my residence and bear responsibility for their stay in the UK. I will also support them financially if required and ensure that they leave the UK before the expiry of their visa.
Please find attached:
- A copy of my British passport / BRP / immigration status proof
- Proof of my address (e.g., utility bill, tenancy agreement)
- Employment letter / Payslips
- Bank statements (last 3 months)
Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Full Name]
Supporting Documents to Submit with the Invitation Letter
A well-written invitation letter for UK visa gains credibility when accompanied by the correct supporting documents. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) assesses not just the contents of the invitation letter, but also the evidence provided to validate it.
The following documents should be submitted alongside the invitation letter for a UK visa to strengthen the visitor’s application:
1. Proof of Immigration Status of the Inviter
Your invitation letter for UK visa must show that you have legal residence in the UK. Provide:
- Copy of UK passport (if British citizen)
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or residence card
- Contact Home Office for the status letter (e.g., Settled Status confirmation)
- Visa vignette (if on work, study, or family visa)
This reassures UKVI that the person extending the invitation has a legitimate presence in the UK.
2. Proof of Address in the UK
To confirm that you can host the applicant, attach:
- Recent utility bill (gas, water, electricity – dated within 3 months)
- Council tax bill
- Tenancy agreement or mortgage statement
- Official letter showing your name and UK address
This supports the accommodation claim made in the invitation letter for UK visa.
3. Proof of Relationship Between Inviter and Applicant
UKVI must be satisfied that the relationship mentioned in the invitation letter for UK visa is genuine. Suitable documents include:
- Birth certificates (for parent/child relationships)
- Marriage certificates (if applicable)
- Photos showing time spent together
- Chat logs, emails, or travel history
- Previous visa stamps, if relevant
The stronger the relationship evidence, the more weight your UK visa invitation letter will carry.
4. Proof of Financial Support (if applicable)
If you are acting as a financial sponsor, you must submit evidence to support the claim in your invitation letter for UK visa:
- Three to six months of bank statements
- Payslips from recent months
- Employment letter stating job title and salary
- P60 (if employed in the UK)
- Proof of self-employment or business ownership
UKVI will compare the financial evidence against the claims made in the invitation letter to ensure feasibility.
5. Employment or Study Status of the Inviter
A letter from your employer or educational institution confirms that you are settled and accountable during the applicant’s stay. Attach:
- Letter from employer (stating your role, start date, salary, and status)
- Student status letter from a UK university or college
This reinforces the legitimacy of the invitation letter for UK visa and shows your stability in the UK.
6. Travel Itinerary or Visit Plan (if available)
While optional, attaching a draft travel plan or flight reservation can complement the invitation letter for UK visa. It helps UKVI understand the purpose and scope of the visit.
Include:
- Draft travel itinerary
- Event invitations (e.g., weddings, graduations, conferences)
- Tours, bookings, or planned activities
7. Additional Documents from the Visa Applicant
Although technically part of the applicant’s submission, you may wish to ensure they also include:
- Their own bank statements (if self-funded)
- Proof of strong ties to their home country (job, family, property)
- Return flight reservation (if applicable)
These documents support the intention to return home, aligning with the visit scope outlined in the invitation letter for UK visa.
We at Axis Solicitors can guide you on exactly what documents to attach with your invitation letter for a UK visa
Tips for Writing a Convincing Invitation Letter for UK Visa
Writing an invitation letter for a UK visa is not just about wording — it’s about credibility, consistency, and completeness. Here’s how to ensure your letter carries weight with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI):
1. Be Clear and Specific
Avoid vague terms like “visiting for some time” or “staying somewhere in London.” Include specific dates, locations, and purposes. Detail helps demonstrate genuine planning.
2. Match All Information with Application Documents
Any discrepancy between your letter and the visa application or supporting documents may raise red flags. Double-check names, dates, addresses, and purpose of visit.
3. Keep the Tone Formal but Personal
Maintain a professional tone, but don’t strip the letter of personal context. Briefly explaining your relationship and reason for the visit adds warmth without compromising professionalism.
4. Avoid Overstating Commitments
Only promise what you can prove. Don’t state you will fully sponsor someone unless your finances and living arrangements can clearly support that claim.
5. Use Official Letter Formatting
Include your name, address, date, subject line, and signature. Format matters — especially in formal immigration communication.
6. Include Supporting Documents Without Overloading
Provide quality over quantity. Include only necessary, well-organised evidence. Avoid excessive or irrelevant documentation.
7. Sign the Letter in Ink or Digitally (if submitting online)
Unsigned letters look careless or unfinished. Make sure to sign — and include a printed name below the signature.
8. Avoid Emotional Appeals
The UK visa process is legal and procedural. Avoid emotional language such as “It would break my heart if my cousin is refused.” Focus on factual support.
9. Proofread for Grammar and Clarity
Errors make the letter appear unprofessional and rushed. Have someone review it or use professional services to edit it for tone and correctness.
Common Mistakes When Writing an Invitation Letter for UK Visa
Even well-intentioned letters can lead to complications if they miss key details or violate UKVI expectations. Below are the most frequent errors people make — and how to avoid them.
1. Insufficient Detail About the Visit
Mistake: Writing only a one-liner such as “I want my sister to visit me in the UK for a holiday.”
2. Missing the Inviter’s Legal Status or Proof
Mistake: Failing to include a copy of the inviter’s UK passport, BRP, or status document.
3. Unclear or Unsupported Financial Commitments
Mistake: Saying “I will cover all expenses” without including bank statements or proof of income.
4. Overly Emotional Language
Mistake: Including sentimental language like “I miss them so much” or “We’ve been apart for too long.”
5. Failing to Include the Applicant’s Full Details
Mistake: Mentioning only a first name or a nickname.
6. Contradictory Information with the Visa Application
Mistake: Dates of the visit in the letter don’t match those in the visa form or flight bookings.
7. Generic or Template-Based Letters with No Customisation
Mistake: Copying a generic sample letter from the internet with no personalisation.
8. No Signature on the Letter
Mistake: Submitting an unsigned letter, especially for printed applications.
9. Outdated or Irrelevant Supporting Documents
Mistake: Attaching utility bills from over a year ago or bank statements without the inviter’s name.
Avoid the errors that lead to refusals — let Axis solicitors review your UK visa invitation letter before you submit
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is an invitation letter required for a UK visa application?
An invitation letter for UK visa is not a mandatory requirement under UK immigration rules, but it is strongly recommended. Including a well-written invitation letter significantly improves the strength of a UK visitor visa application, particularly for family and friend visits. It serves as supporting evidence of the purpose of the visit and the relationship between the applicant and the host in the UK.
2. Who can write an invitation letter for a UK visa?
The letter must be written by someone who is legally residing in the UK. This includes:
- British citizens
- People with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
- Settled/pre-settled EU nationals
- Those with valid student, work, or spouse visas
The inviter must have a genuine relationship with the applicant and ideally be able to provide accommodation or support during the visit.
3. What is the format of an invitation letter for UK visa?
A typical UK visa invitation letter should include:
- Inviter’s full name, address, contact details, and immigration status
- Applicant’s full name, DOB, nationality, and passport number
- Relationship between inviter and applicant
- Purpose, duration, and accommodation details for the visit
- A clear declaration of any financial support or sponsorship
The letter should be formal, dated, and signed. A digital or ink signature is acceptable depending on submission method.
4. What documents should accompany the invitation letter for a UK visa?
To make the invitation letter credible, include:
- A copy of the inviter’s passport or BRP
- Proof of address (utility bill, council tax bill, tenancy agreement)
- Bank statements or payslips (if offering financial support)
- Employment letter or student status letter
- Proof of relationship (photos, correspondence, birth certificates, etc.)
These documents validate the claims made in the invitation letter for UK visa.
5. Can I invite a friend to the UK and write an invitation letter for them?
Yes. If you are living in the UK legally, you can write an invitation letter for UK visa for a friend. You must prove your relationship, provide your immigration status, and explain the reason for the visit. The Home Office may request evidence of your ability to accommodate or support them during their stay.
6. Does the invitation letter need to be notarised?
No, the UK Home Office does not require notarisation of an invitation letter for a UK visa. It simply needs to be properly formatted, signed, and accompanied by relevant documents. That said, notarisation may be used for peace of mind in some complex cases, but it is not standard.
7. Can a student in the UK write an invitation letter for a UK visa?
Yes, a student with valid leave to remain can write a UK visa invitation letter. However, they must clearly show that they have sufficient accommodation, are legally allowed to host visitors in their residence, and can either support the guest or that the guest will be self-funded.
8. Can a UK company issue an invitation letter for a business visa?
Yes, UK companies can issue invitation letters for UK business visas. These must be on official letterhead.
9. What if the inviter cannot financially support the visitor?
If the inviter cannot act as a financial sponsor for a UK visa, they can still issue the invitation letter. The applicant will then need to submit proof of their own financial means—such as recent bank statements, proof of employment, or savings—to meet the UK visitor visa requirements.
10. Should the invitation letter be addressed to UKVI or the applicant?
Always address the invitation letter for UK visa to the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). The letter is intended to support the case file of the applicant and inform the visa officer, not the applicant themselves.
Need Help Writing an Invitation Letter for UK Visa? Contact Axis Solicitors
Crafting a strong invitation letter for UK visa — and gathering the right documents to support it — can make or break a visitor visa application. At Axis Solicitors, we understand what UKVI looks for and how to present your case effectively.
Contact us today for legal consultancy.
