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 (2025 Guidance)

A properly structured invitation letter for a UK Visitor Visa can significantly strengthen the applicant’s chances of approval. As of 2025, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) places strong emphasis on clarity, authenticity, and supporting documentary evidence. Your invitation letter should demonstrate a genuine purpose of visit, stable ties, and clear financial and accommodation arrangements.

Below is a 2025-updated breakdown of what your invitation letter must include:

1. Inviter’s Full Personal Information

Begin the invitation letter by clearly stating your personal details. Ensure the information matches your official identification documents.

Include:

• Full legal name (as shown in passport) 
• Full residential address in the UK 
• Contact number and email address 
• Current UK immigration status (e.g., British Citizen, Indefinite Leave to Remain, Skilled Worker Visa holder, Student Visa holder) 
• BRP or Passport number (optional but helpful) 

This confirms the identity and legitimacy of the inviter.

2. Applicant’s Full Personal Information

Next, provide the visitor’s personal details exactly as they appear on their passport.

Include:

• Full name 
• Date of birth 
• Nationality 
• Passport number 
• Relationship to the inviter (e.g., parent, sibling, friend, colleague) 

Accurate applicant details help UKVI cross-verify information during the application process.

3. Purpose of the Visit

The invitation letter must clearly explain the reason for the visit. UKVI will assess whether the purpose is genuine and temporary.

State:

• The purpose of the visit (tourism, family visit, attending an event, medical treatment, etc.) 
• Why the visit is happening at this particular time (e.g., graduation ceremony, holiday travel, wedding, school break) 
• Expected activities or schedule during the stay 

The explanation should be honest and detailed, without appearing exaggerated.

4. Duration and Dates of Stay

Specify the intended travel dates and length of stay. This reassures UKVI that the applicant does not intend to overstay.

For example:

• Arrival date 
• Departure date (or approximate timeframe) 

If dates are flexible, mention the estimated duration (e.g., “3 weeks in June 2025”).

5. Accommodation Details

If you will provide accommodation, state this clearly.

Include:

• The address where the visitor will stay 
• Whether accommodation is free of cost 
• Confirmation that the accommodation is legally suitable (especially important if renting) 

If the visitor will stay in a hotel or private rental, include the booking details or plans.

6. Financial Support (if applicable)

Clarify who will pay for:

• Travel costs (flights) 
• Daily expenses 
• Any other support 

If the inviter is sponsoring the trip, mention:

• “I will cover their travel, accommodation, and living expenses during their stay.” 

If the visitor is self-funded, mention:

• “The applicant will finance their own visit and I will only provide accommodation.” 

In either case, the application must include financial evidence (bank statements, employment letters, etc.).

7. Declaration of Relationship and Responsibility

Briefly state your relationship and what you will be responsible for during the stay.

Example statement:

“I confirm that I have a genuine personal relationship with the applicant and will provide accommodation and general support during their visit. I also confirm that the applicant intends to return to their home country after the visit.”

This demonstrates genuine connection and respect for visa conditions.

8. Supporting Evidence List

Mention the documents you are attaching with the letter. Common supporting documents include:

• Copy of inviter’s UK passport or BRP 
• Proof of address (council tax bill, utility bill, tenancy agreement) 
• Proof of employment or financial stability (recent payslips or bank statements) 
• Event or purpose-based documents (e.g., wedding invitation, graduation schedule) 

This ensures consistency between your letter and the supporting bundle.

9. Signature and Date

End the letter by:

• Signing with your full legal name 
• Dating the letter (very important) 
• Adding your contact details again for verification 

Both digital and handwritten signatures are acceptable in 2025, depending on submission format.

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 (2025 Update)

A well-prepared invitation letter for a UK visa carries more weight when supported by the correct documentary evidence. In 2025, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) places strong emphasis on verifiable proof behind every claim in the invitation letter. The documents serve to confirm identity, purpose of visit, financial support, and accommodation arrangements.

Below are the recommended supporting documents to submit alongside the invitation letter:

1. Proof of Immigration Status of the Inviter

Your invitation letter must show that you are legally resident in the UK. Include one of the following, depending on your status:

• Copy of British Passport (if a British Citizen) 
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) (for ILR or Limited Leave Holders) 
• Settled or Pre-Settled Status Confirmation Letter (under EU Settlement Scheme) 
• Visa Vignette or Digital Immigration Status (Skilled Worker, Student Visa, Family Visa, etc.) 

These documents demonstrate that the inviter is legally present and able to host the visitor.

2. Proof of Address in the UK

To confirm accommodation arrangements stated in the invitation letter, provide proof of your current UK address, such as:

• Recent utility bill (gas, electricity, water) dated within the last 3 months 
• Council tax bill 
• Tenancy agreement or mortgage statement 
• Official correspondence from a government body or bank showing your address 

This validates the location and authenticity of the accommodation being offered.

3. Proof of Relationship Between Inviter and Applicant

UKVI must be satisfied that the relationship described in the invitation letter is genuine. Appropriate documents include:

• Birth certificates (for parent/child applications) 
• Marriage certificates (if inviting spouse) 
• Photographs together from different occasions or periods 
• Communication history (WhatsApp, emails, call logs — summarized) 
• Travel history or previous entry stamps showing prior visits 

The more credible and consistent the evidence, the stronger the application.

4. Proof of Financial Support (if applicable)

If the inviter is providing financial support, you must submit evidence to justify this claim. Include:

• Bank statements (last 3–6 months) 
• Recent payslips 
• Employment letter confirming job role, salary, and contract status 
• P60 (if employed in the UK) 
• Evidence of self-employment or company accounts, if relevant 

UKVI will compare the financial evidence with the invitation letter to confirm affordability and sincerity of sponsorship.

If the visitor is self-funded, the letter should clarify this, and the visitor must provide their own financial documents.

5. Proof of Employment or Study Status of the Inviter

UKVI may consider your stability in the UK when assessing the credibility of the invitation. Provide one of the following:

• Employer letter confirming employment status, role, start date, and salary 
• Student enrollment letter from a UK educational institution 

This supports the reliability of the inviter and indicates they are established in the UK.

6. Travel Itinerary or Visit Plan (Optional but Recommended)

While not mandatory, submitting a draft visit plan can strengthen the clarity and transparency of the purpose of the visit.

Consider including:

• Provisional flight reservation (no need to purchase a ticket yet) 
• Planned travel itinerary (e.g., dates, activities, locations) 
• Invitations to specific events, such as weddings or graduations 
• Hotel bookings, where relevant 

This helps UKVI assess the scope and temporary nature of the visit.

7. Additional Documents from the Applicant

Even though these are submitted on the visitor’s side, it is important to ensure they are included:

• Applicant’s bank statements (if self-funded) 
• Proof of strong home ties, such as: 
  • Employment letter or business ownership proof 
  • Evidence of property ownership or tenancy 
  • Family responsibility documents 
• Return travel booking (optional but useful) 

These documents demonstrate intent to return to the home country.

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.