An immigration support letter is a crucial document that can significantly strengthen an immigration application. These letters provide personal accounts and professional endorsements that highlight the applicant’s character, contributions, and the potential impact of their presence in the country. They offer a human perspective beyond the official paperwork, helping immigration officials understand the applicant’s unique circumstances and why granting them legal status is beneficial.
Crafting an effective support letter requires careful consideration and attention to detail. It’s not just about expressing goodwill; it’s about providing specific examples and concrete evidence to support your claims. The strength of a support letter lies in its authenticity and the writer’s ability to articulate the applicant’s positive attributes and the hardship their absence would cause. This guide offers thirteen sample letters to provide a strong foundation and inspiration for composing a compelling support letter.
Sample Immigration Support Letters
Sample Letter 1: Family Member Support
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Immigration Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing this letter in strong support of my [relationship to applicant] [Applicant’s Name]. I have known [him/her] for [number] years. During that time, [he/she] has proven to be a loving, supportive, and invaluable member of our family. [He/She] consistently provides emotional support to our family, especially during difficult times. Losing [him/her] would create significant emotional and financial hardship for our family. For example, [he/she] regularly [describes specific actions, e.g., helps with childcare, provides transportation, assists with household chores]. I urge you to approve [Applicant’s Name]’s application so [he/she] can remain with our family.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 2: Friend Support
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Immigration Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to you today in strong support of [Applicant’s Name]’s application for immigration benefits. I have known [him/her] for [Number] years as a close friend. During this time, I have been consistently impressed by [his/her] [positive qualities, e.g., kindness, work ethic, community involvement]. [He/She] is a dedicated and compassionate individual who has enriched my life and the lives of others in our community. For example, [he/she] is always willing to [describe a specific action, e.g., lend a helping hand, offer advice, volunteer time]. I believe that [Applicant’s Name] would be a valuable asset to our society, and I wholeheartedly support [his/her] application.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 3: Employer Support
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[Company Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Immigration Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to support the immigration application of [Applicant’s Name], who has been employed at [Company Name] as a [Job Title] since [Start Date]. During [his/her] time with us, [he/she] has consistently demonstrated exceptional [Skills/Qualities, e.g., work ethic, dedication, problem-solving abilities]. [He/She] is a highly valued member of our team, and [his/her] departure would significantly impact our operations. [He/She] is responsible for [Specific Responsibilities] and has consistently exceeded expectations. Losing [him/her] would require significant time and resources to find and train a replacement. We strongly support [Applicant’s Name]’s application and believe [he/she] is a valuable asset to our company and the community.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 4: Community Leader Support
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[Organization Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Immigration Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to express my strong support for the immigration application of [Applicant’s Name]. As [Your Title] at [Organization Name], I have had the pleasure of knowing [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years. During this time, [he/she] has been an active and dedicated member of our community. [He/She] has volunteered [his/her] time and skills to [Specific Activities/Projects], making a significant positive impact on [Specific Community/Group]. [He/She] is a compassionate and dedicated individual who consistently goes above and beyond to help others. [His/Her] contributions have been invaluable to our organization and the community we serve. Granting [him/her] legal status would allow [him/her] to continue making these valuable contributions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 5: Religious Leader Support
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Religious Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[Organization Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Immigration Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to offer my strong support for [Applicant’s Name]’s immigration application. As the [Your Title] at [Religious Organization Name], I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years. During this time, [he/she] has been a devoted and active member of our congregation. [He/She] regularly participates in [Religious Activities] and is known for [his/her] [Positive Qualities, e.g., kindness, generosity, commitment to faith]. [He/She] is a person of strong moral character and a valuable asset to our religious community. [He/She] consistently demonstrates a commitment to [Religious Values] and serves as a positive role model for others. I believe that granting [him/her] legal status would allow [him/her] to continue to contribute to our community and uphold the values we cherish.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 6: Teacher/Professor Support
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[School/University Name]
[School/University Address]
[School/University Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Immigration Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to strongly support the immigration application of [Applicant’s Name]. I have been [his/her] [Teacher/Professor] at [School/University Name] for [Number] years. During this time, [he/she] has consistently impressed me with [his/her] [Positive Academic Qualities, e.g., intelligence, dedication, work ethic]. [He/She] is a bright and engaged student who consistently strives for excellence. [He/She] actively participates in class discussions and demonstrates a genuine thirst for knowledge. [He/She] is currently pursuing a degree in [Major] and has consistently maintained a high GPA. I believe that [Applicant’s Name] has the potential to make significant contributions to society, and I wholeheartedly support [his/her] application.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 7: Landlord/Neighbor Support
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Immigration Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing this letter in support of [Applicant’s Name]’s immigration application. I am [his/her] [Landlord/Neighbor] at [Address]. I have known [him/her] for [Number] years and have always found [him/her] to be a responsible, respectful, and considerate individual. [He/She] is a quiet and reliable tenant/neighbor who always pays rent on time and maintains [his/her] property. [He/She] is a valued member of our community, and I have never had any issues or concerns regarding [his/her] behavior. I believe that [Applicant’s Name] is a good person and a responsible member of society.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 8: Doctor/Therapist Support (with HIPAA compliance)
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Practice Name]
[Practice Address]
[Practice Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Immigration Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to provide information in support of [Applicant’s Name]’s immigration application. I am [his/her] [Doctor/Therapist] at [Practice Name]. I have been treating [him/her] since [Start Date]. Please note: I am providing this information with [Applicant’s Name]’s explicit written consent, in compliance with HIPAA regulations. A signed release is attached to this letter. Based on my professional assessment, [Applicant’s Name]’s [Physical/Mental Health Condition] would likely be significantly impacted by [his/her] removal from the United States. [Explain the potential impact, e.g., disruption of treatment, loss of access to necessary resources, increased stress and anxiety]. This could have serious consequences for [his/her] overall well-being. I believe that allowing [him/her] to remain in the United States is crucial for [his/her] health and stability.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 9: Coworker Support
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[Company Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Immigration Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to support the immigration application of [Applicant’s Name]. I have been a coworker of [Applicant’s Name] at [Company Name] for [Number] years. During this time, I have found [him/her] to be a dedicated, reliable, and valuable member of our team. [He/She] is always willing to help others and consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that our projects are successful. [He/She] possesses strong [Skills] and is a positive influence in the workplace. [He/She] contributes to [Team/Company Name] by [Explain Specific Action e.g., training new employees, developing process improvement, etc.] I believe that [Applicant’s Name] would be a significant loss to our company if [he/she] were to leave.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 10: Support for VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) Applicant
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Relationship to Applicant]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Immigration Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number] – VAWA Application
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing this letter in support of [Applicant’s Name]’s application under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). I have known [him/her] for [Number] years as [Relationship to Applicant, e.g., friend, family member, advocate]. I am aware of the abuse [he/she] has suffered at the hands of [Abuser’s Name]. [Describe the abuse you witnessed or have been told about by the applicant. Be specific and provide dates or timeframes if possible. Focus on the patterns of abuse and control. Avoid making judgments or assumptions.] For example, I personally witnessed [Describe specific incident]. This abuse has had a significant impact on [Applicant’s Name] [e.g. mental health, physical health, and emotional well-being.] I believe that granting [him/her] legal status is crucial for [his/her] safety and well-being, enabling [him/her] to rebuild [his/her] life free from abuse.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Important Note: When writing a letter supporting a VAWA applicant, it is crucial to be truthful and accurate in your account. If you have witnessed abuse or have been told about it by the applicant, describe what you saw or heard in as much detail as possible, focusing on specific incidents and patterns of abuse. If you are a professional (therapist, social worker, etc.), include your professional qualifications and how you have assisted the applicant. Remember that the information you provide will be used to support the applicant’s case, so accuracy and detail are essential.
Sample Letter 11: Support for Asylum Seeker
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Relationship to Applicant]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Asylum Office
[Address if known, otherwise leave blank]
Re: Asylum Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear Asylum Officer,
I am writing to express my strong support for [Applicant’s Name]’s application for asylum. I have known [him/her] for [Number] years as [Relationship to Applicant, e.g., friend, family member, coworker]. I am aware that [he/she] fled [Country of Origin] due to [Describe the reason for fearing persecution. Be specific and relate it to one of the protected grounds: race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.] [Describe specific incidents of persecution or threats of persecution that you are aware of. Include dates, locations, and details of what happened.] For example, I know that [Specific Example]. [Describe the situation in [Country of Origin] that supports the applicant’s fear. Explain why it would be dangerous for [him/her] to return.] I believe that [Applicant’s Name] has a well-founded fear of persecution if [he/she] were to return to [Country of Origin], and I strongly urge you to grant [him/her] asylum.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Important Note: Asylum cases are highly sensitive. It is very important to be accurate and truthful in your letter. Base your statements on personal knowledge and avoid making generalizations. If you have documentation to support your claims (e.g., news articles, reports from human rights organizations), mention them in your letter and be prepared to provide copies. Understand that you may be asked to testify about the information in your letter.
Sample Letter 12: Support for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) Recipient
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Relationship to Applicant]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Support for [Applicant’s Name]’s DACA Renewal, A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to express my strong support for [Applicant’s Name]’s renewal of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). I have known [him/her] for [Number] years as [Relationship to Applicant, e.g., friend, family member, employer, teacher]. [Applicant’s Name] came to the United States at a young age and has grown up here, considering this country [his/her] home. [Describe the applicant’s contributions to society. Be specific and provide examples. This could include their education, employment, community involvement, volunteer work, or family responsibilities.] For example, [he/she] has worked diligently to [Specific Achievement]. [Describe the positive impact that DACA has had on the applicant’s life. How has it allowed them to contribute to society and improve their own life?] DACA has allowed [him/her] to [Specific Benefit]. Ending DACA would have a devastating impact on [Applicant’s Name] and would deprive our society of a valuable member. I strongly urge you to approve [his/her] DACA renewal.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 13: General Character Reference
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Relationship to Applicant]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Character Reference for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s Alien Registration Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Applicant’s Name]. I have known [him/her] for [Number] years as [Relationship to Applicant, e.g., friend, family member, neighbor, colleague]. Throughout this time, I have found [him/her] to be a [Positive Adjective, e.g., kind, compassionate, honest, reliable] and [Positive Adjective] individual. [Provide specific examples of the applicant’s positive qualities. Give anecdotes or stories that illustrate these qualities.] For example, I have seen [him/her] [Specific Example]. [Describe the applicant’s overall character and reputation.] [He/She] is known for being [Positive Trait] and is well-respected within our [Community/Circle]. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] is a person of good moral character and would be a valuable asset to [Country Name/Community].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion
Crafting a compelling immigration support letter is crucial for bolstering an applicant’s case. The samples provided offer a starting point, but remember to personalize each letter with specific details and anecdotes that highlight the applicant’s unique strengths and contributions. Always ensure the information you provide is truthful and accurate, and consider the potential impact your letter can have on the applicant’s future.
