How to Write a Letter of Invitation for UK Visa

How to Write a Letter of Invitation for UK Visa

If you are inviting a friend, family member, or business contact to the UK, you may need to provide a Letter of Invitation as part of their UK visa application. This letter plays a big role in showing the UK Home Office that the visitor has a genuine reason to travel, a host in the UK, and no intention of overstaying.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

• What a UK Letter of Invitation is
• Who needs to write one
• How to format it properly
• A ready-to-use sample invitation letter for UK visa
• Common mistakes to avoid

What is a Letter of Invitation for UK Visa?

A Letter of Invitation is a personal letter written by a UK resident (citizen, permanent resident, or valid visa holder) inviting someone from another country to visit the UK.

It should include details about:

• The relationship between the inviter and visitor
• The purpose of the visit
• Duration of the stay
• Who will cover the expenses (if applicable)

According to the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) guidelines (UK Gov – Visitor Visa Requirements), an invitation letter is not always mandatory but can significantly strengthen the application.

Who Can Write a UK Visa Invitation Letter?

The inviter must:

• Be legally residing in the UK (British citizen, Indefinite Leave to Remain holder, or valid visa holder)
• Have a genuine connection with the visitor (family, friends, or business)
• Be willing to share personal details to support the application

For example:

• A parent inviting their child
• A friend inviting a visitor for a wedding
• A company inviting an overseas business partner

Step-by-Step: How to Write a UK Visa Invitation Letter

1. Start with your personal details

• Full name
• Address in the UK
• Contact number and email
• Immigration status

2. Add visitor’s details

• Full name (as per passport)
• Date of birth
• Passport number
• Relationship to you

3. Mention purpose of visit

Clearly explain why the person is visiting — tourism, attending a wedding, business meeting, etc.

4. Specify duration and accommodation details

Include exact arrival and departure dates, plus where the visitor will stay (your home or a hotel).

5. Include financial details

State if you will cover their expenses or if they will pay for themselves.

6. Sign and date the letter

A signed letter adds authenticity.

Sample Letter of Invitation for UK Visa

[Your Name]
[Your Address in the UK]
[City, Postcode]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

UK Visas and Immigration
Home Office
United Kingdom

Subject: Letter of Invitation for [Visitor’s Full Name] – Passport No. [XXXXX]

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to invite [Visitor’s Full Name], born on [Date of Birth], holding passport number [XXXXX], to visit me in the United Kingdom from [Proposed Arrival Date] to [Proposed Departure Date].

[Visitor’s Full Name] is my [relationship, e.g., cousin/friend/business associate] and will be staying with me at my home at [Your Address] during their visit.

The purpose of this visit is [state reason – e.g., tourism, attending a wedding, family visit, business meeting]. I will cover [all/some/none] of their expenses, including accommodation and living costs, during their stay.

Please find attached copies of my passport/visa, proof of address, and other supporting documents for your consideration.

Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Yours faithfully,
[Signature]
[Full Name]

Documents to Attach with Your Invitation Letter

• Copy of your UK passport or visa
• Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
• Relationship proof (birth certificate, photos, communication records)
• Visitor’s passport copy

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Invitation Letters

❌ Missing important details (dates, relationship, purpose)
❌ Providing false or unclear information
❌ Not signing the letter
❌ Not attaching supporting documents

Final Tip

At GMS Immigration, our IAA-certified advisers can review your letter of invitation, ensure it meets UKVI standards, and guide you through the entire visa process.

📞 Call us: 020 8059 0483
📧 Email: baljit@gmsimmigration.co.uk
🌐 Visit: www.gmsimmigration.co.uk