If you're planning to visit the United States to see family, attend a personal event, or simply explore its famous cities and landscapes, a strong visa application is essential. When applying for a US B2 Tourist Visa, one important supporting document is a US invitation letter.

This letter, written by your friend or family member living in the US, formally invites you to visit them. It explains your relationship, the reason for your visit, and where you'll stay during your trip. While the US Embassy does not mandate an invitation letter, it strengthens your case by showing your trip’s purpose and that you have a host in the country.

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What Should a US Tourist Visa Invitation Letter Include?

A complete and well-organized invitation letter shows the US consular officer that your visit has a genuine purpose and that you’ll have accommodation and support during your stay. Here are the essential details to cover:

Host’s Details

The host should provide their full name, complete US address, phone number, email ID, and immigration status (US citizen, permanent resident, or visa holder). It’s important to mention your relationship to the applicant as well.

Example:
“I am Rohan Sharma, residing at 2516 Maple Avenue, New York, NY 10001, United States. I am a US permanent resident and have been living in the US for the past four years.”

Purpose of the Visit

Explain why you are inviting your guest to the US. Whether it’s for a vacation, a family reunion, or a celebration, mention the purpose clearly.

Example: “I am inviting you to visit the United States for tourism and to spend time with me and my family during your stay.”

Duration of the Stay

Clearly state the proposed travel dates, even if they are tentative. This helps the visa officer understand the intended length of the visit.

Example: “I would like to invite you from November 15, 2025, to December 5, 2025.”

Accommodation and Support

Mention where your guest will stay and whether you’ll cover any expenses like accommodation or local travel. This shows that they will be supported and cared for during the trip.

Example: “You will be staying with me at my residence throughout your visit, and I will ensure your accommodation and daily needs are taken care of.”

5. Planned Activities

Briefly outline what your guest will do during their trip. This shows the consular officer that the trip is planned and for genuine tourism or family time.

Example: “During your stay, we will explore New York City, visit Central Park and the Statue of Liberty, and take a weekend trip to Washington, D.C.”

Host’s Assurance

Request that the consulate grant the visa and provide your contact details in case they require additional information.

Example: “I kindly request you to grant [Visitor’s Full Name] a tourist visa for the mentioned travel period.”

Host’s Signature

End the letter formally with your full name, signature, and the date.

Tips for Writing a Strong US Visa Invitation Letter

A well-drafted invitation letter can make your application clearer and more persuasive. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

Be Clear and Direct

Focus on the essential details: who you are, your relationship, why you're inviting them, and what they’ll do in the US. Keep it simple.

Keep the Tone Professional Yet Warm

You don’t need overly formal language, but avoid slang or casual expressions. Strike a balance between personal and professional.

Include Complete Contact Details

Always include your full address, phone number, and email address so the consulate can contact you if necessary.

Outline the Trip Clearly

Please mention some of the places and activities planned for the visit. This makes the trip sound well-organised and genuine.

Specify Financial Responsibility (If Applicable)

If you’re covering any part of the visitor’s expenses, mention this clearly.

Proofread Carefully

Double-check your letter for grammar, spelling, and factual errors before submitting it.

Keep the Format Clean

Use a simple font, clear spacing, and avoid clutter. A neat letter is easier to read and leaves a positive impression.

Sample US Tourist Visa Invitation Letter

[Your Full Name]
[Your Complete Address in the US]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Email: [Your Email Address]
Phone: [Your US Phone Number]
Date: [DD-MM-YYYY]

[Visitor’s Full Name]
[Visitor’s Full Address in home country]
[City, State, PIN Code]

Subject: Invitation to Visit the United States

Dear [Visitor’s First Name],

I hope you are doing well. I am writing to formally invite you to visit me in the United States from [Start Date] to [End Date]. The purpose of your visit is tourism and to spend time with me and my family.

I am currently residing at [Your Full US Address]. I have been living in the United States for [mention duration] as a [mention your immigration status]. During your visit, you will be staying with me at my residence, and I will ensure your accommodation and daily needs are taken care of.

During your stay, we plan to visit several places of interest, including Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. We also plan a weekend trip to Washington, D.C., to explore its museums and monuments.

I kindly request you to consider this application and grant [Visitor’s Full Name] a tourist visa for the above period. If you require any additional information or documentation, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank you for considering this invitation. I look forward to welcoming [Visitor’s First Name] to the United States soon.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

Common Mistakes to Avoid in a US Tourist Visa Invitation Letter

Although the invitation letter is straightforward, even minor mistakes can weaken your application. Here’s what to avoid:

Incomplete Details

Do not leave out your full address, contact information, or your immigration status in the US.

Vague Purpose of Visit

Simply saying "vacation" is not enough. Be specific about what your guest will do during their stay.

Casual Language

Use a respectful, polite tone. Avoid using slang or overly casual expressions.

Inconsistent Information

Make sure the dates, names, and addresses in your invitation letter match those in your visa application and supporting documents.

Not Mentioning Accommodation

Clarify where your guest will stay and if you will cover any expenses. This reassures the visa officer.

Poor Formatting

Present the letter neatly, with clear sections and simple formatting.

Missing Contact Details

Always include your phone number and email so the US consulate can reach you if necessary.

A well-prepared US invitation letter helps strengthen your tourist visa application by showing that your trip has a clear purpose, your accommodation is arranged, and you have strong ties to your host. Keep your letter clear, professional, and aligned with your visa application documents for a smoother application process.