Immigration letters play a crucial role in many immigration applications. They can provide vital support, verify employment, detail relationships, or attest to character. A well-written letter can significantly strengthen a case. Understanding the different types of immigration letters and how to write them effectively is essential for anyone involved in the immigration process, whether you’re the applicant or a supporter.
This article provides a comprehensive collection of immigration letter samples, covering a range of common scenarios. These samples serve as templates, offering guidance on structure, content, and tone. Remember to always tailor the letter to the specific circumstances of the applicant and the requirements of the immigration authorities. Pay close attention to formatting and any specific instructions provided by USCIS or other relevant agencies.
When drafting an immigration letter, clarity and accuracy are paramount. Be specific with dates, names, and details. Maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout the letter. It’s also important to be truthful and avoid exaggerations or misleading information. Submitting false or misleading information can have serious consequences for the applicant’s case.
Before submitting your letter, carefully proofread it for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation. A polished and error-free letter demonstrates attention to detail and reflects positively on the credibility of the writer and the application. Consider having someone else review the letter before submitting it to ensure it’s clear, concise, and compelling.
Immigration Letter Samples
Sample 1: Letter of Support from Family Member
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing this letter in strong support of my [relationship to applicant – e.g., sister, brother, mother] [Applicant’s Name]’s application for [type of immigration benefit – e.g., permanent residency, visa]. I am a [Your immigration status – e.g., U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident] and have been living in the United States since [year].
I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [number] years. [He/She] is a [positive qualities – e.g., kind, responsible, hardworking] person. [He/She] would be a valuable addition to our community.
I am financially able and willing to support [Applicant’s Name] upon [his/her] arrival in the United States. I am employed as a [Your Occupation] at [Your Employer] and earn approximately $[Your Annual Income] per year. I have attached copies of my [supporting documents – e.g., tax returns, pay stubs] to verify my income and employment. I attest that I can provide adequate housing for [applicant’s name] as well as financial stability for the applicant.
I urge you to approve [Applicant’s Name]’s application. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: Employment Verification Letter
[Company Letterhead]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Employment Verification for [Employee’s Name], A# [Employee’s A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
This letter is to confirm that [Employee’s Name] has been employed by [Company Name] as a [Employee’s Job Title] from [Start Date] to the present. [His/Her] current annual salary is $[Annual Salary].
[Employee’s Name]’s job duties include [brief description of job duties]. [He/She] is a [positive qualities – e.g., reliable, dedicated, skilled] employee and a valuable asset to our company.
This letter is being provided at the request of [Employee’s Name] in support of [his/her] immigration application. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Phone Number]
[Company Email Address]
Sample 3: Character Reference Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Character Reference for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing this letter to provide a character reference for [Applicant’s Name]. I have known [him/her] for [number] years as a [relationship to applicant – e.g., neighbor, friend, colleague].
Throughout my acquaintance with [Applicant’s Name], I have found [him/her] to be a person of strong moral character. [He/She] is [positive qualities – e.g., honest, compassionate, trustworthy]. [He/She] is also [mention any specific examples of positive behavior – e.g., active in the community, volunteers time].
I believe that [Applicant’s Name] would be a responsible and contributing member of society. I highly recommend [him/her] for [immigration benefit].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Letter Explaining a Relationship (e.g., Bona Fide Marriage)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Evidence of Bona Fide Marriage between [Your Name] and [Spouse’s Name], A# [Spouse’s A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing this letter to provide further evidence of our bona fide marriage with my spouse, [Spouse’s Name]. We were married on [Date of Marriage] in [City, State].
We met [Describe how you met and the early stages of your relationship]. Our relationship grew stronger over time, and we decided to get married because [Explain the reasons for getting married – e.g., shared values, love, commitment].
Since our marriage, we have [Describe shared experiences – e.g., traveled together, shared holidays, supported each other through challenges]. We share [Mention joint finances – e.g., bank accounts, property ownership, insurance policies]. We live together at [Address]. [Provide further details about your shared life].
We are committed to building a life together. We are submitting additional documents to support our application. We are hopeful that you will see the genuine nature of our relationship.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Letter Explaining a Past Mistake/Issue
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Explanation Regarding [Issue – e.g., Traffic Violation, Overstayed Visa], A# [Your A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to explain the circumstances surrounding [the issue – e.g., a traffic violation, an overstayed visa]. This occurred on [Date of Incident] in [Location of Incident].
[Provide a detailed, truthful account of what happened. Be honest and take responsibility for your actions. Avoid making excuses, but provide context where necessary. For example, for a traffic violation: “On [Date], I was driving [Vehicle Description] when I was pulled over by a police officer for [Traffic Violation]. I was issued a ticket, which I [Paid/Appealed]. I understand that I violated [Traffic Law] and I take full responsibility for my actions.” For an overstayed visa: “I entered the United States on [Date] with a [Visa Type] visa, which was valid until [Expiration Date]. Due to [Reason for Overstay – e.g., a family emergency, unexpected illness], I was unable to depart before my visa expired. I understand that I overstayed my visa, and I regret this oversight.”]
Since then, I have [Describe steps taken to rectify the situation – e.g., paid the fine, sought legal advice, ensured compliance with immigration laws]. I understand the importance of complying with U.S. laws and regulations, and I am committed to ensuring that this does not happen again. I’ve attached [Supporting documentation, if any – e.g., receipt of fine payment, court documents].
I sincerely apologize for this matter. I hope that you will take my explanation into consideration during the review of my immigration application.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 6: Affidavit of Support from a Non-Family Member (co-sponsor)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support as Co-Sponsor for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing this letter to provide an Affidavit of Support as a co-sponsor for [Applicant’s Name], who is applying for [Type of Immigration Benefit]. I understand that I am agreeing to financially support [Applicant’s Name] if necessary.
I am a [Your immigration status – e.g., U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident] and have been living in the United States since [Year]. I understand that [Applicant’s name] is related to [Sponsor’s Name] through [Relationship (if any)]. Because [Sponsor’s Name] might not meet the minimum income requirements on their own, I want to help.
I am employed as a [Your Occupation] at [Your Employer] and earn approximately $[Your Annual Income] per year. I have attached copies of my [Supporting Documents – e.g., Tax Returns, Pay Stubs] to verify my income and employment. I attest that I can provide adequate financial support for [Applicant’s Name] in addition to my current responsibilities.
I have carefully reviewed the obligations of a co-sponsor and understand that I will be responsible for [Applicant’s Name]’s financial needs until [He/She] becomes a U.S. citizen, has worked 40 qualifying quarters, leaves the U.S. permanently, or dies. I urge you to approve [Applicant’s Name]’s application.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 7: Letter from a Religious Leader (e.g., Pastor, Imam, Rabbi)
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Religious Institution]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing this letter to express my strong support for [Applicant’s Name]’s application for [Type of Immigration Benefit]. I am the [Your Title – e.g., Pastor, Imam, Rabbi] at [Religious Institution] and have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years.
[Applicant’s Name] is an active and valued member of our religious community. [He/She] is [Describe their involvement in the community – e.g., volunteers time, participates in activities, helps others]. [He/She] demonstrates a strong commitment to [Religious values].
[Provide a specific example of their positive contribution or character]. I believe that [Applicant’s Name] is a person of strong moral character and would be a positive addition to American society. I highly recommend [him/her] for this immigration benefit.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 8: Letter Explaining Why You Haven’t Met Someone in Person
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Explanation for Not Meeting [Beneficiary’s Name] in Person, A# [Beneficiary’s A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to explain why I have not yet had the opportunity to meet [Beneficiary’s Name] in person. [He/She] is the [Relationship – e.g., fiancé(e), partner, relative] of [Your Name/Name of Petitioner], and we are seeking [Immigration Benefit – e.g., K-1 Visa, Family-Based Green Card].
Our relationship began on [Date] through [How You Met – e.g., online dating, mutual friends, a social media platform]. Since then, we have maintained a close and committed relationship through [Methods of Communication – e.g., regular video calls, phone calls, messaging, letters]. [Give details. For example: “We video call each other almost every day, and we share details of our daily lives. We also send each other letters and gifts.”] We are deeply in love and committed to building a future together.
Unfortunately, due to [Reasons for Not Meeting – e.g., financial constraints, travel restrictions, medical reasons, visa difficulties], we have not yet been able to meet in person. [Explain the reasons in detail. For example: “Due to my current financial situation, I have been unable to afford the cost of travel to [Country]. I am working hard to save money so that I can visit [Beneficiary’s Name] as soon as possible.” Or: “Due to travel restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been impossible for me to travel to [Country].” Or: “Due to [Beneficiary’s Name]’s [Medical Condition], they are currently unable to travel.” Or: ” [Beneficiary’s Name]’s visa application to visit the United States was unfortunately denied.”]
We are actively planning to meet as soon as [State Plans – e.g., financial situation improves, travel restrictions are lifted, visa is approved]. We are submitting [Evidence – e.g., screenshots of video calls, copies of travel plans, visa application documents] to further demonstrate the genuineness of our relationship. We are eager to finally meet in person and begin our life together.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 9: Letter Requesting Expedited Processing
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Request for Expedited Processing of [Application Type – e.g., I-130 Petition, I-485 Application], Receipt Number [Receipt Number], A# [Your A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to respectfully request expedited processing of my [Application Type – e.g., I-130 Petition, I-485 Application], Receipt Number [Receipt Number], which was filed on [Date of Filing].
I understand that USCIS processes applications in the order they are received. However, I am requesting expedited processing due to [Compelling Reason for Expedite]. [Explain the reason clearly and provide specific details. Valid reasons for expedite often include severe financial loss to a company or individual, urgent humanitarian reasons, compelling U.S. government interests, or a clear USCIS error. For example: “My [Relative – e.g., mother, father] is suffering from a serious medical condition and requires my immediate presence for care. I have attached a letter from [Physician’s Name] outlining the urgency of the situation.” Or: “My company is facing significant financial losses due to the delay in my ability to work. Expedited processing of my work authorization would allow me to resume my employment and prevent further economic hardship.” Or: “My family and I are facing imminent eviction due to [Reason]. Expedited processing of my application would alleviate this dire situation.”]
I have enclosed [Supporting Documentation – e.g., medical records, financial statements, eviction notice, letter from employer] to support my request for expedited processing. I am available to provide any additional information or documentation that you may require.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 10: Letter from a Landlord Verifying Tenancy
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Verification of Tenancy for [Tenant’s Name], A# [Tenant’s A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
This letter is to confirm that [Tenant’s Name] and [List Other Occupants, if any] reside at [Rental Property Address]. They have been tenants at this property since [Start Date of Tenancy].
Their current monthly rent is $[Monthly Rent Amount]. They are generally good tenants and have consistently paid their rent on time. [Optional: If applicable, you can add a brief sentence about their behavior as tenants. For example: “They have maintained the property in good condition.”] They are in compliance with the terms of their lease agreement. [If there are any issues, describe the issues and how they were/are being addressed].
I am providing this letter at the request of [Tenant’s Name] for immigration purposes. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 11: Letter Detailing Contributions to the Community
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter Detailing Community Contributions for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to attest to the significant contributions that [Applicant’s Name] has made to our community. I have known [him/her] for [Number] years as a [Relationship to Applicant – e.g., neighbor, volunteer colleague, community leader].
[Applicant’s Name] has consistently demonstrated a commitment to improving our community through [Specific Activities – e.g., volunteering at a local food bank, participating in neighborhood cleanups, mentoring youth, fundraising for local charities]. For example, [Describe a specific instance of their contribution. Be detailed and provide context. For example: “Every Saturday, [Applicant’s Name] volunteers at the [Name of Food Bank], where [he/she] helps to sort and distribute food to families in need. [He/She] has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure that everyone is served with compassion and respect.”] Or: “[Applicant’s Name] has been instrumental in organizing neighborhood cleanup events. Thanks to [his/her] efforts, our streets are cleaner and safer.”]
[Applicant’s Name]’s dedication and hard work have had a tangible and positive impact on our community. [He/She] is a valuable asset, and I am confident that [he/she] will continue to contribute to society in meaningful ways. [If possible, quantify their impact. For example: “Thanks to their fundraising efforts, the [Name of Charity] was able to provide assistance to [Number] families in need.”]
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 12: Letter Explaining a Gap in Employment
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Explanation of Employment Gap for [Your Name], A# [Your A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to explain a gap in my employment history, which occurred from [Start Date] to [End Date]. This gap appears on my [Application Type – e.g., I-485, N-400] form.
During this period, I was [Reason for Employment Gap]. [Provide a clear and concise explanation. Be honest and provide specific details. Common reasons include: “caring for a family member,” “pursuing further education,” “dealing with a medical issue,” “actively seeking employment after a layoff.” For example: “I was caring for my [Relationship – e.g., mother, father] who was diagnosed with [Medical Condition]. I provided full-time care and support during this difficult time.” Or: “I was pursuing a [Type of Degree or Certification] at [Name of Institution]. I dedicated my time to studying and completing my coursework.” Or: “I was laid off from my position at [Previous Employer] due to [Reason for Layoff]. I actively sought employment during this period and attended numerous interviews.” Or: “I was recovering from [Medical Condition] and undergoing medical treatment. My doctor advised me to take time off work to focus on my health.”]
[If applicable, explain what you did during this time to maintain your skills or contribute to society. For example: “While caring for my [Relative], I also volunteered at a local charity.” Or: “During my studies, I continued to hone my skills through [Activities – e.g., online courses, personal projects].” Or: “While seeking employment, I volunteered at [Organization] to keep my skills sharp.” Or: “During my recovery, I focused on rehabilitation and participated in support groups.”]
I am now [Current Employment Status – e.g., employed, actively seeking employment] and am committed to maintaining a stable employment history. I have attached [Supporting Documentation – e.g., medical records, transcripts, layoff notice, volunteer letter] to support my explanation.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 13: Letter Clarifying a Name Discrepancy
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Clarification of Name Discrepancy for [Your Name], A# [Your A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to clarify a discrepancy regarding my name, which appears on [Document(s) with Discrepancy – e.g., birth certificate, passport, marriage certificate, previous immigration documents]. My name is officially [Correct Legal Name]. However, on [Document(s)], my name is listed as [Incorrect Name].
This discrepancy occurred because [Explain the reason for the discrepancy. Be honest and provide specific details. Common reasons include: “a clerical error,” “cultural naming conventions,” “a previous legal name change,” “variations in transliteration.” For example: “This was due to a clerical error during the issuance of my [Document Type].” Or: “In my culture, it is common to use a shorter, informal version of my name. I have sometimes used this name on official documents.” Or: “I legally changed my name from [Previous Name] to [Current Name] on [Date of Name Change] in [Location of Name Change]. The [Document] was issued before my name change was finalized.” Or: “The difference in spelling is due to variations in transliteration between [Language] and English.”]
I have always used [Correct Legal Name] for official purposes, including [Examples of Using Correct Name – e.g., U.S. tax returns, bank accounts, current driver’s license]. To further clarify this matter, I have attached [Supporting Documentation – e.g., copy of birth certificate, copy of name change order, affidavit explaining the discrepancy].
I hope this explanation clarifies any confusion regarding my name. Please contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 14: Letter from a Teacher/Professor
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[School/University Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Recommendation for [Student’s Name], A# [Student’s A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to recommend [Student’s Name] for [Purpose of Recommendation – e.g., immigration application, scholarship, admission to a program]. I have known [him/her] for [Number] years as [Student’s Name]’s [Your Role – e.g., teacher, professor] at [School/University Name].
[Student’s Name] was a student in my [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year]. [He/She] is a [Positive Qualities – e.g., diligent, intelligent, motivated, inquisitive] student who consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to learning. [Provide specific examples. For example: “In my class, [Student’s Name] consistently earned top grades and actively participated in class discussions. [He/She] also demonstrated excellent critical thinking skills.” Or: “[Student’s Name] is a highly motivated student who consistently went above and beyond the requirements of the course.”]. [Optional: Mention any specific projects or accomplishments.]
Beyond academics, [Student’s Name] is a [Positive Personal Qualities – e.g., respectful, responsible, compassionate] individual who is well-liked by [his/her] peers. [He/She] is a valuable member of our school community. I am confident that [Student’s Name] will succeed in [his/her] future endeavors and make a positive contribution to society. I highly recommend [him/her] for this [Purpose of Recommendation].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 15: Letter from a Friend Describing a Difficult Situation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support Regarding the Difficult Circumstances of [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s A-Number, if applicable]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to provide context and support for [Applicant’s Name], whom I have known as a [Your Relationship – e.g., close friend, neighbor, colleague] for [Number] years. I am aware that [he/she] is facing a difficult situation due to [Briefly State the Situation].
I have personally witnessed [Applicant’s Name]’s struggle with [Specifics of the Situation]. [Provide specific details and examples. For example: “I have personally witnessed the emotional toll that [Applicant’s Name]’s illness has taken on [him/her]. [He/She] has shown incredible strength and resilience in the face of adversity.” Or: “I have seen firsthand the financial hardship that [Applicant’s Name] has experienced since losing [his/her] job. [He/She] has been actively seeking employment but has faced numerous challenges.” Or: “I am aware of the difficult family situation that [Applicant’s Name] is dealing with. [He/She] is the primary caregiver for [his/her] ailing [Relative] and is under immense pressure.”].
Despite these challenges, [Applicant’s Name] has remained [Positive Qualities – e.g., hopeful, determined, resilient]. [He/She] is a person of strong character and deserves compassion and understanding. I believe that granting [Applicant’s Name]’s application would provide [him/her] with the stability and support needed to overcome these difficulties and contribute positively to society.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 16: Letter Requesting Consideration Under Humanitarian Parole
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
Humanitarian Parole Unit
[USCIS Address]
Re: Request for Humanitarian Parole for [Beneficiary’s Name], Date of Birth [Date of Birth], Nationality [Nationality]
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