If you’re planning to visit the United States in 2025 on a B1/B2 visitor visa—whether for tourism, family visits, or business—an invitation letter, while not required, can add helpful context to your application and reinforce your stated reasons for travel.
According to the U.S. Department of State, a letter of invitation is not mandatory for a B1/B2 visa. Each applicant must qualify based on personal circumstances, such as financial resources, employment, family ties, and a demonstrated intent to return to their home country. However, including an invitation letter can be beneficial, especially when the visitor will be hosted by someone in the United States or is attending a business or academic event.
Several types of invitation letters are commonly used and can support different types of visits:
A family or friend visit invitation is useful for applicants visiting relatives or friends in the U.S. This type of letter should describe the relationship, length and purpose of the visit, the host’s address and contact details, and indicate whether the host will provide housing or cover any expenses.
A business invitation letter is appropriate for those attending professional meetings, training, or conferences. It should be on official company or organizational letterhead and include the nature of the visit, event details, expected duration, and clarification about financial responsibility during the stay.
An academic or event-based invitation letter may be used for those attending cultural, educational, or professional events. These letters typically come from institutions or event organizers and should include event details, dates, venue, and the organizer’s role and contact information.
A strong invitation letter should include the following information:
- Full name, U.S. address, phone number, and immigration status of the host
- Full name, home address, date of birth, and passport number of the visitor
- A clear explanation of the visit’s purpose
- Specific arrival and departure dates
- Where the visitor will stay and who is responsible for the expenses
- A signature from the host, either digital or handwritten
Here is a sample invitation letter for a family visit:
[Host’s Full Name]
[Street Address, City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address] | [Phone Number]
[Date]
To:
U.S. Consulate/Embassy
[City, Country]
Subject: Invitation for [Visitor’s Full Name]
Dear Consular Officer,
I am writing to invite my [relationship], [Visitor’s Full Name], currently residing at [Home Address], to visit me in the United States from [start date] to [end date]. The purpose of the visit is [briefly explain—e.g., vacation, attending a family gathering, or exploring the country].
During this period, [he/she] will stay at my residence, and I will take full responsibility for accommodation and daily expenses. [Visitor’s Name] is currently employed/studying in [home country] and will return after the visit, as [he/she] has ongoing obligations.
I have attached documentation verifying my legal residency in the United States, along with a copy of my identification.
Sincerely,
[Host’s Name and Signature]
Along with the invitation letter, it is helpful to include supporting documents such as:
- A copy of the host’s U.S. passport, visa, or green card
- Proof of the host’s address (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement)
- Travel itinerary, if already arranged
- Invitations or confirmation letters for any events the visitor plans to attend
While an invitation letter cannot guarantee visa approval, it can be a valuable part of the application by helping the consular officer better understand the applicant’s travel plans and intentions.
