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How to Write a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa

If you wish to act as a sponsor for a visitor to the UK, you may have to write a letter of invitation.

For more information about UK visitor visas and the requirements when applying for one, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our expert immigration lawyers on  0333 305 9375 , or contact us  online .

What is a Letter of Invitation?

A letter of invitation (also known as a sponsorship letter or sponsor letter) is a letter written by a UK-based sponsor to support a friend, family member, or partner’s UK visitor visa application.

This is usually because you will need to demonstrate that you have ties to the visa applicant in question and that you will be able to support or accommodate the visitor for the entire duration of their stay in the UK.

The main content of the letter will be you inviting the visitor to stay in your home. Details about yourself, the visitor, and the trip itself should also be included in order to give the fullest and most detailed description of the visit as possible.

In addition, you should also include copies of supporting documents to verify and back up the information contained within the invitation letter.

What Are the Requirements for a Letter of Invitation?

In order for the invitation letter to be taken as valid evidence, you should:

• Be a UK citizen, legal resident, or lawful permanent resident
• Be a friend, relative, or partner/spouse of the visitor
• Have a registered place of accommodation (such as a house or a flat that you rent or own)
• Have enough space to accommodate the visitor for the whole duration of their stay

All of the information included in the letter must be truthful and accurate.

Who Should the Letter of Invitation be Addressed To?

Although the purpose of the letter of invitation is to invite someone to stay in your home, the letter doesn’t need to be addressed directly to the visitor.

This is because the invitation letter is simply a formality intended to convey supporting information such as your personal details, the visitor’s details and details about the visit to the British Entry Clearance Officer (ECO) or UK consular officer.

Therefore, the letter does not need to be written as though you are writing to, speaking to, or inviting the visitor directly.

Instead, it’s perfectly acceptable to write as though you are addressing the ECO, rather than the visitor. If so, then you may wish to start the letter with ‘Dear Sir/Madam’, or ‘To whom it may concern’.

However, you may wish to address the invitation letter to the visitor you are inviting to stay if you wish. This would then be written as ‘Dear <visitor’s name>’.

If you require assistance writing a letter of invitation, get in touch with us today.

What Information Should be Included in the Letter of Invitation?

Basic information to be included in the letter of invitation.

The letter of invitation should ideally contain details about the host, the visitor, and the trip itself.

It should include the host’s:

• Full address
• Telephone number
• Status in the UK
• Relationship to the visitor

In addition to this, it should also include the visitor’s:

• Travel itinerary
• Relationship to the host

The sponsor letter should also give details about the trip itself. The letter should include details regarding the following:

• The length of the stay
• The start and end dates of the stay
• The purpose of the visit
• The accommodation
• Living, travel and other expenses

Additional Information to be Included in the Letter of Invitation

Details regarding the expenses should be outlined by the host. This may be stating that the host intends to fully financially support the visitor throughout the trip, including living and food costs. Alternatively, the invitation letter may state that the host and visitor intend to share costs throughout the trip, or that the visitor intends on paying a certain amount of the costs of the visit.

It may be that you’re unable to provide exact dates of the trip, as you or the visitor haven’t made any firm arrangements yet.

If so, then it’s acceptable to give a rough idea of the number of days or the date in the invitation letter. For example, this may be expressed as ‘I am inviting <visitor’s name> to stay with me for two weeks in August’, or ‘The visit will last for around eight days in November or December’.

In addition, if you and the visitor are planning to stay somewhere other than (or in addition to) your own home, you should include details about this also. This may be written as ‘We are also planning to stay in <location’s address> for three nights from <start date> to <end date>.

When outlining the purpose of the visit in the invitation letter, it may be something as simple as sightseeing, or wanting to spend time with friends or relatives. However, if the visitor is travelling to the UK for a specific reason, such as to attend a specific event or to take a course, then this should be mentioned in the letter.

What Supporting Documents Should be Included with the Letter of Invitation?

In order for the invitation letter to be accepted by the ECO, it should be accompanied by copies of supporting documents to back up the information included in the letter.

For example, these might be documents that prove your status as a UK citizen, or ones that prove that you’re able to financially support the visitor throughout the stay.

Below are some examples of supporting documents you may wish to include with the invitation letter:

• A scan of your UK passport
• A scan of something that confirms your status in the UK, such as biometric residence permit
• Proof of rental or ownership of your home, such as a tenancy agreement
• Proof of financial means, such as bank statements
• Copies of any travel, accommodation or activity plans already arranged
• Any other legal document that will support the visitor’s visa application

There are no specific documents that absolutely must be included with the letter. However, the more documents you include, the stronger the support for the visa application will be.

Sample Letter of Invitation

Below is an example of what a letter of invitation for a visitor visa or family visitor visa may look like. Note that this is only a rough template, and sections may be added, taken away, or edited as needed according to your own personal circumstances.

<Your Name>

<Your Address>

<Your phone number>

<Your email address>

<Date>

Application for visitor visa for <visitor’s name>

To whom it may concern,

This is a letter of invitation inviting <visitor’s name, with date of birth> to come and stay with me, <your full name, with date of birth> in the UK. They will stay with me for <length of stay> at my address in <location> from <start date> to <end date>.

<Visitor’s name> is my <type of relationship here, with length of time known if applicable>, and the intention of the trip will be sightseeing, seeing family and travelling to local areas of interest.

In addition to <visitor’s name> staying in my own home, we will also spend three days lodging at <name of accommodation or place> from <start date> to <end date>. The address of the lodging is <address>.

I am a UK citizen by birth and work as a <occupation>. I fully intend to financially support <visitor’s name> for the duration of the trip, including food, room and board, and travel costs within the UK. I also have more than enough room in my own home to accommodate <visitor’s name> for the duration of their trip.

Please find attached copies of my British passport, tenancy agreement, work ID, and booking details of the lodgings in <location>. I have also enclosed a copy of my bank statement from <date> to confirm that I have the necessary funds to fund <visitor’s name>’s visit to the UK.

If you require any more information from me, please don’t hesitate to get in contact.

Yours faithfully,

<your signature>

<your name>

How Can IAS Help?

If you’re required to write an invitation letter to support a UK visitor visa, it’s important to be clear on what you’re expected to include in it, as well as what supporting documents you will need.

However, if you require any assistance with writing an invitation letter for a UK visa, or if you have any questions about the process, IAS are here to help.

We are expert immigration lawyers who have years’ worth of experience in UK immigration law. We can assist you with any UK immigration or visa issue, including advising you on how to write, format and complete a letter of invitation for a UK visitor visa.

For more information about the services we offer, and to speak to one of our trusted legal advisers, get in touch with us today on  0333 305 9375 , or contact us through our form  online .

We can help you with your immigration issues and queries.

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How to write a Letter of Invitation for a UK visitor visa Application

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Visitor Visa - General Requirements

What is a letter of invitation?

Who should write the letter, what should be included in your visa invitation letter, tips for writing a successful uk visitor visa invitation letter.

Unless you are a non-visa national i.e. you are NOT visa-exempt, and need to visit the UK, you will need to apply for a ' Visitor Visa ' to enter the UK.

There are several types of visitor visas, each one permitting different/specific activities:

• A Standard Visitor Visa permits you to come to the UK for activities including tourism, visiting family and friends, conducting specific business activities (such as attending a meeting or conference), receiving medical treatment or for short term study. - This visa is also commonly known as a “Visit visa” or “Tourist visa.”
• A Permitted Paid Engagement Visitor Visa allows certain professionals to come to the UK for a paid engagement by a UK-based organisation or client.
• A Marriage Visitor Visa gives you permission to get married/register a civil partnership, or give notice of a marriage or a civil partnership in the UK
• Visa to pass through the UK in transit is required to pass through the UK in transit (on route to another country).

General Requirements of the Visitor Visa

As well as having a valid passport/travel document for the duration of your trip, the Home Office will also require you to sufficiently demonstrate that you are coming to the UK as a 'genuine visitor', which means that you will need to clearly evidence:

• That you will leave the UK when you finish your visit
• You have sufficient funds for your travel from and return back to your home country
• You will be able to financially support yourself and your dependants during your stay
• You are not attempting to establish permanent residence in the UK or make it your primary residence by frequent or consecutive visits.

How do you prove that you meet the requirements?

You will demonstrate the above to the Entry Clearance Officer assessing your application, by submitting relevant documents to support your case.

One of the documents you may need to include is a 'letter of invitation', depending on the reason(s) for your visit to the UK.

A letter of invitation (also referred to as an invitation letter or sponsorship letter) is usually required when:

• You will be visiting and/or staying in the UK with family, friends or partners.
• You need to carry out activities relating to your employment/profession or study outside the UK (e.g. attending business meetings or performing as a musician, participating in an academic exchange).
• Participating in a (permitted) paid engagement for UK-based organisation or client.

Why do you need a letter of invitation?

As previously stated, the Home Office wants to see that you will be coming to the UK as a genuine visitor. The letter of invitation serves as (further/additional) evidence of the purpose for your visit, what you will be doing during your stay and any other critical information that is relevant e.g. your family member or friend will be providing you accommodation and/or financial support for your trip.

Ultimately you want to make it clear to the Entry Clearance Officer that you will not be breaching the rules of your visit visa when you come to the UK.

If you are staying with family/friends

The letter will need to be written by the person that will be providing your accommodation and/or they will be financially supporting you, and addressed for the attention of the Entry Clearance Officer.

The person needs to be a British citizen or legal resident in the UK (known as the resident sponsor). Although the person writing the letter of invitation is not required to be a relative of the visa applicant, the relationship needs to be genuine, and needs to be sufficiently proven accordingly.

If you will be carrying out Permitted Paid Engagements

The letter needs to be written by the relevant UK-based organisation or client that you will be doing work for/with.

If you need to attend a business meeting, training, conference etc

The letter needs to be written by the organisation(s) sending you and/or inviting you to attend.

If you will be performing at an Event or Exhibition

A letter of invitation will need to be provided by the respective event organiser.

The purpose of the visit

The letter should explain the primary reason for the visit, such as to visit family or friends, for a holiday, to attend/perform at an event, for business purposes etc.

The length of your stay

The letter should specify the planned length of your stay, including the planned dates of arrival and departure.

A general background of the Applicant

You should mention the relevant ties to your home country, such as if you are in full-time employment, run a business or have assets there.

An overview of the your travel plans in the UK

The letter should provide an overview of your travel plans in the UK, including any planned activities or events.

A detailed itinerary is only really required if you will be carrying out professional engagements.

The relationship between the person writing the invitation letter and the visa applicant

The letter should explain the nature of the relationship between the person writing the letter and the visa applicant, such as being friends, relatives, employer, client etc.

A statement of financial support

If the person writing the invitation letter is offering to cover the costs of the trip, they should include a statement of financial support in the letter. This should include details of the level support they are providing and how the costs will be covered.

The location of where you will be staying

You will need to provide the full address where you will be staying, and (if applicable) the name and contact information of the person providing the accommodation.

All of the information included in the letter must be truthful and accurate

As well as being honest and transparent about your intentions for coming to visit the UK, It is important to ensure that the information you include matches with the application form.

Use a formal tone and professional format:

The invitation letter should be written in a formal tone, using proper grammar and spelling. it should also be formatted with a clear structure and layout. where appropriate, try to incorporate bullet points or numbered lists to help break up the text and make the letter easy to read and cross-reference for the home office caseworker., include all relevant information in a clear and concise manner:.

The letter should include all the necessary information about the planned visit, such as the purpose of the visit, the length of the stay, and the location of the stay. This information should be presented in a clear and concise manner.

What other Supporting Documents need to be submitted for the Visitor Visa Application?

Unfortunately there is no one-size fits all set of documents that can be applied to support your visitor visa application, as the items you must submit will always be subject to your personal circumstances. However, the core items you will be expected to include are:

• A copy of your valid Passport/Travel document
• Proof of Finances, such as Bank statements
• Evidence of suitable accommodation you have arranged in the UK
• Confirmation of any travel bookings, or relevant activity plans already scheduled

If you are required to provide one, an invitation letter will play an essential part in your UK visitor visa application. A well-written letter can help to demonstrate that you are coming as a genuine visitor to the UK.

To make an invitation letter most effective, it needs to be well structured and include all the relevant information in a clear and concise manner so it is easy to read, and correlates with the information on the application form and other supporting documents.

Ultimately, it is just one of many supporting documents you will need to submit for a successful application to get the visa granted.

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Melanie Wong is a Senior Immigration Solicitor based in London, UK.

With over 20 years of legal experience , she has extensive knowledge and exposure of all areas of UK immigration law, with particular expertise in handling difficult and technically complex cases , including UK Settlement, Human Rights and British nationality law.

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information and law contained in this article is accurate and current as of the date of publication, we accept no responsibility for its accuracy or for any loss or damages arising from accessing, or the reliance, of this guidance.

Please also note that the information does not represent a complete statement of the Law and does not constitute legal advice .

If you would like specific professional advice about your UK immigration matter, please consider booking a consultation or one of my other legal services.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

How to write a compelling cover letter for UK visa (that will impress the ECO)

Updated: September 6, 2023

A cover letter for UK visa is instrumental in persuading the ECO that you meet the visa requirements and have no intention of overstaying your visa. It gives you the opportunity to convince the ECO that you are a genuine visitor and you will promptly return back to your country.

A cover letter is a document to convey additional information that wasn’t asked in the UK visa application. It’s not a mandatory document but by far the most helpful document in increasing your chances of UK visa approval.

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Why do you need a cover letter for uk visa.

The information asked in the UK visa application isn’t enough to convince the ECO that you will return back to your home country after your trip. 

Most questions on the UK visa application are close-ended. They don’t give you an opportunity to explain. 

A cover letter allows you to explain in your own words and be as descriptive as you can. You can use your own format and even use illustrations if needed.

Is a cover letter mandatory for UK visa?

No. A cover letter is not mandatory for UK visa. It’s not even a document in the documents checklist for UK visa.

When I applied for my UK visa, I did not submit a cover letter. At that time, I didn’t know the importance of a cover letter for UK visa. I didn’t feel the need to explain anything additional, so I didn’t submit one. My visa was still approved. 

That’s not the case for everyone. A cover letter will not hurt your chances of approval, it can only help. It gives you an additional opportunity to convince the ECO. 

If I apply again for my UK visa, I would definitely submit a cover letter. 

What should you write in the cover letter?

A cover letter is not a mandatory document for UK visa. So obviously, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) does not provide any guidelines on what to include in the cover letter.

As you all know, I started this website in 2016. Since then, I have been helping my readers with their visas. I figured that a cover letter was the most helpful for UK visa. 

I have been writing cover letters for my readers. Over time, I learned that a cover letter with a certain format worked the best for UK visa. 

I would like to impart all my knowledge in this article, so you can write the most compelling cover letter for your UK visa. It will not only impress the ECO but will greatly improve your chances of visa approval.

So without any further delay, let’s get started. 

Format of the cover letter

The goal of the cover letter is to convince the ECO that you are a genuine visitor. You must do this in a simple, short and clear manner. ECOs rarely will have time for anything other than what’s asked.

Write your cover letter in simple words as if it’s meant for a 5th grader. If the language is too complicated to read, ECO will not bother to read it. 

Do not use words that people from your country can only understand. ECOs are from the UK and they can only understand the terms that they use in the UK. 

Example: It’s common for people in India to say something like “ please do the needful and revert back to me “. Even though it’s still understandable, saying something like “ please let me know if you need anything else from me ” will help the ECO understand better. 

Remember, a cover letter is not a mandatory document. ECO is doing you a favor by reading it. So, make it easy for the ECO.

Your cover letter should never be longer than two pages. ECOs rarely have time for things other than what’s asked in the application. If you present them with a booklet, they will toss it in the trash without even looking at it. 

Again remember, a cover letter is not mandatory. It should not consume too much of ECO’s time.

To further simplify your cover letter, format it with subheadings, bullets and highlights. This helps the ECO to quickly glance over the letter and read any section that interests them. 

Example:   Instead of writing like this – 

“ I intend to travel to the UK for tourism from 20 June 2021 to 24 June 2021 and I plan to visit various attractions in London such as Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, London Eye, Madame Tussauds, National Gallery, etc. “

Write like this – 

• I intend to travel to the UK for tourism. My travel dates are from 20 June 2021 to 27 June 2021. 
• 20 June 2021: Arrive at Heathrow International Airport at 3 PM. Check-In and dinner.
• 21 June 2021: Visit Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London
• 22 June 2021: Visit Tower Bridge and London Eye
• 23 June 2021: Visit Madame Tussauds and National Gallery
• 24 June 2021: Depart from Heathrow International Airport at 10 AM

Sections in the cover letter

It’s important to break the cover letter into different sections. This helps the ECO quickly glance through the letter and understand the gist of it. If needed, the ECO can read specific sections. Your cover letter for UK visa must contain the following sections.

Section 1: Your previous UK visa refusals

In the UK visa application, there is a question on previous UK visa refusals. It asks about your previous UK visa refusal and its details. This question asks you to explain why your UK visa was refused but doesn’t ask why it shouldn’t have been refused

There is no other place in the application to address your previous visa refusals either. There is the “additional/extra information” area, but it’s only for text and not suitable for formatting or pictures. Therefore, the cover letter is the most appropriate place for addressing your previous UK visa refusal. 

If you are re-applying to challenge your UK visa refusal , include a section in your cover letter specifically for your previous visa refusal. Address your previous visa refusal with evidence, additional information and documentation. 

Keep this section as the first section in your cover letter. Having this section at the beginning of the cover letter will help the new ECO get straight to the point. Otherwise, they may overlook and your efforts of re-application may go to waste.

Here is an example.

Previous UK Visa Refusal

My previous application for the UK visitor visa with GWF number GWF12345678 was refused on 16 March 2021. 

I would like to address the reason for the refusal with additional information and documentation.

Reason for refusal: The sources of the deposit (£850) were not demonstrated by the documents provided.

Explanation: The deposit in question was made on 05-Dec-2020 for the amount of £850. This amount was the yearly bonus from my employer. Yearly bonuses are deposited in the first week of December every year. Please find the attached documentation to prove that these funds are available to me.

Additional Documentation: (1) Bonus slip, (2) bonus announcement email and (3) letter from my employer with details of bonus, amount and dates.

Section 2: Your travel purpose and itinerary

In this section, mention your purpose of visit and proposed itinerary in the UK. The itinerary must be detailed enough but not too descriptive to confuse the ECO. Format it with bullets and/or a table.

Proposed Travel Itinerary

• I intend to travel to the UK for tourism for a total of 7 days. My travel dates are from 14 Oct 2021 to 20 Oct 2021.
• My planned day-by-day itinerary is as follows

Section 3: People traveling with you to the UK

In this section, mention the people that will travel with you to the UK. If you are applying for the visa with your family members, mention their details such as name, passport number and GWF number. 

Each individual must submit one UK visa application. Say if a husband, wife and child are traveling to the UK together, each of them must submit a separate UK visa application. There is no easy way to tie these applications together. 

There is a question in the application asking for travel companions, but mentioning them again in your cover letter will help tie them all together. 

Travel Companions

I will be traveling to the UK with my wife and son. The GWF numbers of my wife’s and son’s UK visa applications are as follows.

Section 4: Your current employment/business or university details

In this section, mention your current employment details. Include details such as the employer’s name, how long you have been working and your current salary.

Employment Details

• I currently work for Samcore Logistics, LTD, Dubai as a product manager.
• I have been working as a product manager at Samcore Logistics, LTD since Nov 2014.
• My monthly salary is 7,000 AED after taxes.
• An original letter from my employer, a leave approval letter and bank statements indicating the salary deposits are attached.

If you are a business owner, mention the details of your business such as your business name, your role in the company, yearly revenue, etc.

Business Details

• I own a construction business in Dubai since 2016. I’m the founder and president of the business.
• The business has been in positive cash flow since its inception with yearly revenue of 300,000 AED.
• A copy of my business registration, business license, bank statements and tax returns are attached.

If you are currently a student at the university, mention your university details along with the program, major and semester details.

University Details

• I’m a full-time student enrolled in the undergraduate program at the University of the Philippines.
• I’m currently in the second semester of my second year with another four semesters remaining to graduate.
• A letter from my university and the fee payment receipts are attached.

Section 5: Your current financial situation

In this section, mention your source of income, savings and the bank statements for your UK visa . 

If you have multiple bank accounts, this section is a good place to talk about it. Explain why you have multiple bank accounts and how they are connected.

Financial Solvency

• I currently have 300,000 INR (approx. 2,900 GBP) in my bank account.
• The source of my savings is my salary from my employer, WinTech Corporation.
• The last 6 months bank statements and payslips are attached.

It’s quite common for many to work in a foreign country and send all their earnings back home for family maintenance or savings. In such cases, you will have to submit bank statements from both countries, but most importantly, mention that clearly in this section.

If you use a broker or third party to send cash back home, errors can occur and transactions may not match. I highly recommend using a money transfer service such as Wise to transfer cash back to your home country.

Section 6: Your sponsorship information

If you are paying for your trip yourself, this section does not apply to you. Have this section in your cover letter only if someone else is paying for your trip. 

In this section, mention your sponsor details, your relationship with the sponsor, what expenses they will bear, etc. 

Sponsorship Details

• My brother is sponsoring my trip to the UK.
• He will bear all my travel expenses while I’m in the UK including accommodation, food and transportation.
• A letter from my brother, his UK residence permit, employment proofs, bank statements, his apartment lease contract and the document to prove our relationship are attached.

Section 7: Your travel history

In this section, mention your travel history. Travel history is very important and highlighting it will only help with your UK visa. Your travel history can include all your previous travels to the UK and other countries. If you have traveled to a country multiple times, mention that country only once.

Travel History

• In the last 5 years, I have traveled to 8 countries for both tourism and business. 
• The countries I have traveled to are Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, UAE, Turkey and Denmark.
• A copy of my visas and entry and exit stamps from all the above countries are attached.

Section 8: Any family members staying back at home

In this section, mention any family members remaining at home during your UK trip. This helps prove your family ties with your country. Family ties indicate that you will return back to your country after your trip. 

Do not include this section if it does not apply to you.

Family Remaining at Home

• I currently live with my wife and two children.
• My wife and children will remain at home during my trip to the UK.
• A copy of my wife’s employment proof and children’s school receipts are attached.

Section 9: Your intention to return back

In this section, mention that you will promptly return back after your trip and the reasons for that. Reasons can be employment, business or attending to family needs. 

Intention to Return Back

• I intend to return to Pakistan after the end of my UK trip on 27 Oct 2021 as I have to report back to my employer and continue at my job on 28 Oct 2021.
• An original leave approval letter from my employer is attached.

Section 10: Any miscellaneous information

If you want to add something that didn’t fall under any specific section above, you can include it here. This could be something about properties you own (economic tie), your rental situation, covid safety precautions, etc.

Miscellaneous

• I currently live in a rental apartment. A copy of my rental contract is attached.
• I own farmland with my wife. A copy of my property ownership document is attached. 
• I assure you that I will follow COVID safety precautions throughout my trip.

A cover letter is not a mandatory document for UK visa. But in my experience, it’s the most helpful document. The goal of the cover letter is to convince the ECO that you are a genuine visitor. Your cover letter must be simple, short and clear. Break the cover letter into sections, paragraphs and bullet lists. Use pictures and screenshots if necessary.

That’s it, folks! Now you know how to write a compelling cover letter for UK visa. This will greatly improve the chances of your UK visa approval. If you have any questions, please let me know in the comments below.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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UK Visa Application Supporting Documents Guidance

Embarking on the journey to obtain a UK visa is an exciting and often complex process. One crucial aspect that will play a significant role in the success of your UK visa application will be the compilation of documents and evidence. Supporting documents serve as the foundation for demonstrating your eligibility, credibility, and genuine intentions to the UK immigration authorities. 

In this comprehensive guide to supporting documents for a UK visa application, we delve into the role that documents and evidence play in a UK visa application. Whether you’re applying for a family visa , a business visa , a work visa , or any other personal immigration or business immigration category, understanding the document requirements, strategies for compiling strong supporting documents, techniques for presenting convincing evidence, and the document submission process will be essential for a successful outcome. 

Importance of supporting documents and evidence in a UK visa application

Documents and evidence hold immense significance in the process of obtaining a UK visa. They serve as concrete proof of your eligibility, intentions, and ability to comply with the visa requirements. The UK immigration authorities will rely heavily on these supporting materials to make informed decisions regarding your application. By carefully reviewing your documents and evidence, they will assess the credibility of your claims and determine whether you meet the necessary criteria for entry into, or extension of stay or settlement in, the UK.

Documents will provide the necessary evidence to substantiate key aspects of your UK visa application, such as the purpose of your visit or stay, your financial stability, your accommodation arrangements, ties to your home country, and compliance with immigration laws. By following the guidance on supporting documents for a UK visa application in this post and presenting a comprehensive and well-organised set of supporting documents, you will enhance your chances of demonstrating your qualifications and of persuading the Home Office immigration caseworkers of your eligibility for a UK visa.

Overview of the typical supporting documents required for a UK visa application

When applying for a UK visa, there are several common supporting documents that are typically required, regardless of the visa category.  Whilst case-specific advice is outside the scope of this post, these may typically include:

• Valid passport: A valid national passport that satisfactorily establishes your identity and nationality;
• Visa application form: Completing the appropriate visa application form is a fundamental requirement;
• Proof of accommodation: Evidence of your accommodation arrangements in the UK, such as proof of property ownership or lease, hotel reservations or a letter of invitation if staying with a host;
• Financial documents: Bank statements, proof of income, or sponsorship letters may be needed to demonstrate your ability to finance your stay in the UK;
• Educational or professional qualifications: Academic transcripts, degree certificates, or professional certificates may be necessary, depending on the purpose of your visit or stay;
• Language proficiency: For certain visa types, you may need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency.

Different types of UK visas and their specific document requirements

Each visa category in the UK has its own specific supporting document requirements tailored to the purpose of the visit or stay.  Many of these documents are mandatory.  Again, case-specific advice is outside the scope of this post, but by way of example:

• Student visa: Documents may include a confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) from a recognised education institution, academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, and financial documents to cover tuition fees and living expenses;
• Work visa: You may need a certificate of sponsorship from your employer, proof of qualifications and work experience, and evidence of meeting specific occupational requirements;
• Family visa: Documents might include proof of relationship (such as marriage or birth certificates), evidence of being able to satisfy a financial requirement, and accommodation arrangements;
• Tourist visa: You may need to provide travel itineraries, hotel bookings, proof of financial means, and evidence of strong ties to your home country.

Researching and identifying the specific documents needed for your UK visa category

It is crucial to thoroughly research and identify the specific document requirements for your intended UK visa category, to ensure you gather all the necessary documents. The UK government’s official website provides a general outline of the documents required for many immigration routes. However, the information is general in nature and is not tailored to the specific circumstances of each individual case.  Nor, often, does the UKVI website incorporate information regarding the required content and format of supporting documents.  The Immigration Rules and Home Office guidance contain strict requirements in terms of both the documents that must be provided in support of a UK visa application, as well as the content and format of these documents.  Failure to comply with the mandatory document requirements could result in a UK visa application being refused.

For the most accurate and up-to-date guidance on required and recommended supporting documents for a UK visa application, you may wish to consider consulting with a reputable immigration lawyer to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the documents needed for your visa category. By conducting diligent research and seeking professional advice, you can gather the necessary supporting documents and proceed with confidence in your UK visa application. 

For expert guidance on the supporting documents and evidence for your UK visa application, contact our immigration barristers on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

Tips and guidance for gathering relevant supporting documents and ensuring their accuracy

To compile a strong bundle of supporting documents for your UK visa application, consider the following tips and guidance:

• Make a checklist: Create a checklist of the required documents for your UK immigration application to ensure you gather all the necessary paperwork and avoid any omissions or oversights;
• Collect recent documents: Gather recent versions of the required documents to ensure they accurately reflect your current circumstances, such as updated bank statements or employment letters;
• Translate and notarise documents: If any of your documents are in a language other than English, have them translated by a certified translator. Additionally, consider getting important documents notarised to add credibility;
• Seek professional advice: If you’re unsure about any aspect of document gathering or accuracy, consider consulting with a reputable immigration lawyer or leading immigration law firm. They can provide guidance on supporting documents that is specific to your situation, ensure that you gather the specific documents required for your visa category and help ensure that your documents meet the requirements set out in the Immigration Rules and Home Office guidance.

Validating and authenticating your supporting documents

To ensure the authenticity and validity of your supporting documents, consider the following steps:

• Check document expiration dates: Ensure that your documents, such as your passport or identification card, are valid throughout the entire visa application process;
• Validate financial documents: If submitting bank statements or financial documents, ensure they are recent, accurate, cover the required time period and reflect the required funds as per the visa category’s financial requirements;
• Authenticate educational or professional documents: If presenting educational certificates or professional qualifications, ensure they are genuine and issued by recognised institutions. Some documents may require verification or apostille certification, depending on your home country;
• Maintain original copies: Make sure to keep copies of all submitted documents for your own records. Immigration authorities may request to see the original documents during the application process or interview.

By following this guidance on UK visa application supporting documents and taking the necessary steps to validate and authenticate your documents, you can compile a strong set of supporting materials that will bolster the credibility and strength of your UK visa application.

Demonstrating the genuineness of your intentions through evidence

When applying for a UK visa, it is crucial to provide evidence that demonstrates the genuineness of your intentions. This can be done through:

• Personal statements: A well-written personal statement that outlines your reasons for visiting or staying in the UK, your objectives, and how the visit or stay aligns with your personal or professional goals;
• Supporting letters: Letters from employers, educational institutions, or organisations that explain the purpose and significance of your visit or stay, verifying the relevance of the opportunity to your personal or professional development;
• Letters of recommendation: If applicable, letters from reputable individuals or organisations that vouch for your character, skills, or contributions in a particular field.

By presenting a range of compelling evidence, you can strengthen the credibility of your UK visa application and assure the immigration authorities of the authenticity and genuineness of your intentions in visiting or staying in the UK.  If you are unsure as to what information should be included in a personal statement, supporting letter or letter of recommendation then consider consulting an immigration lawyer who will be able to provide expert advice on drafting.

Importance of organising and presenting your supporting documents in a clear and concise manner

Organising and presenting your supporting documents in a clear and concise manner is essential for a UK visa application. Here’s why it matters:

• Enhances readability: Neatly organised documents will make it easier for Home Office immigration caseworkers to review and understand the information you provide, increasing the efficiency of the assessment process;
• Demonstrates professionalism: A well-presented set of documents will reflect your attention to detail and professionalism, leaving a positive impression on the immigration caseworkers reviewing your application;
• Facilitates document verification: By organising your documents in a logical order, you will enable immigration caseworkers to cross-reference and verify the information more efficiently, instilling confidence in the accuracy and authenticity of your application.

Overview of the document submission process for a UK visa application

Understanding the document submission process is crucial for a smooth and successful UK visa application. Here is an overview of the typical steps involved:

• Complete the visa application form: Fill out the appropriate visa application form accurately, providing all the required information;
• Gather supporting documents: Compile all the necessary supporting documents based on the specific requirements for your visa category;
• Check supporting documents: All documents and evidence should be carefully reviewed to make sure they comply with the strict requirements of the Immigration Rules and Home Office guidance;
• Organise and arrange your documents: Ensure your documents are neatly organised and arranged in an order that aligns with the requirements of the Immigration Rules; 
• Index your documents: A well prepared bundle of supporting documents will include an index which clearly indicates to the caseworker the nature of the each document and where it can be found in the application bundle;
• Submit your application: Submit your visa application and supporting documents online through the designated portal;
• Provide biometric data: Depending on the visa category and your nationality, you may be required to provide biometric information such as fingerprints and a photograph. Follow the instructions provided by the visa application centre for biometric enrolment;
• Attend an interview (if applicable): Some visa categories may require you to attend an interview at the visa application centre. Prepare for the interview by reviewing your application and supporting documents.

Guidance on preparing your UK visa application supporting documents for submission

To maximise your chances of a successful UK visa application, consider the following guidance when preparing your UK visa application supporting documents:

• Start early: Begin the supporting document gathering process well in advance to allow ample time for preparation, validation, and any necessary revisions;
• Review the requirements: Thoroughly review the Immigration Rules and official Home Office guidance to understand the specific document requirements for your visa category;
• Tailor your evidence: Select evidence that is relevant to your visa category and the purpose of your visit or stay, highlighting your eligibility and demonstrating your genuine intentions;
• Check document validity: Ensure that all your documents, such as your passport or identification card, are valid and have not expired;
• Pay attention to details: Ensure your documents are accurate, up-to-date, and well-organised. Follow the content and formatting requirements and guidelines. Pay attention to even minor details, as they can have an impact on the assessment of your application;
• Double-check for completeness: Review your application and supporting documents to ensure that nothing is missing. Use a checklist to verify that you have included all required documents, they contain all the required information and they are in the required format;
• Provide translations and notarisations: If any of your documents are not in English, have them translated by a certified translator. Additionally, consider getting important documents notarised to add credibility;
• Identify your documents: Give each document a file name with your name, date, and a brief description of its contents;
• Seek professional guidance and review: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process, consider seeking professional assistance from an immigration law firm that specialises in UK visa applications. Some immigration lawyers offer a checking-service whereby they will review visa application supporting documents to ensure they meet the requirements of the Immigration Rules and improve the prospects of success.

To find out more about our UK visa application document checking service, contact our immigration barristers on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

Common mistakes to avoid during the document submission process

To avoid unnecessary delays or complications during the document submission process, be aware of these common mistakes:

• Incomplete or missing documents: Ensure that you have included all the required documents specified in the Immigration Rules and Home Office guidance. Missing or incomplete documents could lead to delays or even rejection of your UK visa application;
• Incorrectly labelled or disorganised documents: Properly label and organise your documents to make it easier for the Home Office immigration caseworkers to review and cross-reference the information;
• Ignoring formatting guidelines: Follow any specified formatting guidelines for online submissions, such as file size, resolution, or file format. Failure to comply may result in your application documents not being accepted;
• Waiting until the last minute: Start gathering your documents well in advance of your intended travel dates. Waiting until the last minute can lead to rushed preparation and potential mistakes.

Benefits of professional assistance in preparing and reviewing your supporting documents

When navigating the complexities of a UK visa application, it’s worth considering the option of instructing an immigration lawyer. Engaging the services of an immigration lawyer or immigration law firm can provide several benefits when it comes to preparing and reviewing your supporting documents for a UK visa application:

• Thorough understanding of requirements: Immigration lawyers have extensive knowledge of the document requirements for different UK visa categories. They can ensure that you gather the correct documents, saving you time and effort;
• Document organisation and presentation: An immigration lawyer can help you organise and present your documents in a clear and persuasive manner, maximising their impact on the immigration caseworker reviewing your application;
• Expert guidance on document validation: An immigration lawyer can guide you on how to validate and authenticate your documents, ensuring they meet the necessary standards and comply with the visa application requirements;
• Revisions and improvements: An immigration  lawyer can review your documents, providing valuable feedback and suggestions for improvement. This can help enhance the strength and effectiveness of your UK visa application.
• Increased chances of success: With their experience and expertise, an immigration lawyer can significantly increase your chances of a successful visa application. They understand the common pitfalls and can help you avoid mistakes that could jeopardise your UK visa application.

Factors to consider when choosing an immigration lawyer

When selecting an immigration lawyer, consider the following factors:

• Expertise and experience: Look for immigration lawyer or immigration law firm that specialises in UK immigration law and has a track record of successfully handling UK visa applications;
• Reputation and credentials: Research the reputation and credentials of the immigration lawyer or immigration law firm. Check client testimonials , reviews, and any certifications or affiliations they hold;
• Cost and fees : Understand the fee structure upfront and ensure it aligns with your budget. Consider whether they offer fixed fees, instalment plans and pricing options.  Consider also the value provided by the immigration lawyer or law firm in relation to the cost;
• Communication and accessibility: Choose a legal professional who communicates effectively and is accessible to address any questions or concerns you may have throughout the process;
• Compatibility and rapport: It is important to have a good rapport with the immigration lawyer or immigration law firm you choose. A positive working relationship can enhance the overall experience and outcome of your UK visa application.

By carefully selecting a reputable immigration lawyer or immigration law firm, you can benefit from professional expertise and guidance, increasing your chances of a successful UK visa application.

Contact our Immigration Barristers

In this post, we have provided guidance on supporting documents and evidence for a UK visa application. Preparing supporting documents for a UK visa application requires diligence, thoroughness, and attention to detail. However, by investing the time and effort into compiling strong documents and evidence, you will increase your chances of a successful UK visa application. Remember to be proactive, seek professional guidance when needed, and ensure that your supporting documents accurately reflect both your circumstances and intentions and the requirements of the UK visa category you are applying for.

For expert guidance on the supporting documents required for your UK visa application, contact our leading immigration barristers on 0203 617 9173 or via the enquiry form below.

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A guide to writing a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visitor Visa

The Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa, also known as a Sponsorship Letter for a UK Visa and as a Sponsor Letter, allows an individual to sponsor their friend, partner, or family member to come to the UK as part of their Standard Visitor Visa application. Please note that the letter does not guarantee entry into the UK, as the applicant for the visa must also meet other requirements.

The individual sponsoring the person visiting the UK must write the Letter of Invitation themselves. Alternatively, they could download a template, but they would still have to fill in the details themselves.

We shall tell you the important information you need to know about the letter, and how you can go about writing one. 

Who can write a Letter of Invitation for a UK Visa?

There are certain requirements that you must meet if you plan on sponsoring and hosting someone to stay with you. 

The requirements are:

• That you are a UK citizen, or a lawful permanent resident
• Related to the person you are sponsoring, or are their friend or partner
• Have a registered place to stay in the UK that you own or rent (a house or flat)
• Enough space in your home to accommodate your visitor

How do I write the letter?

First, you will need to address the letter to the Home Office, not the person you are sponsoring. This is because an Entry Clearance Officer or UK Consular Officer will be dealing with the application, and so will need to read the letter to ensure everything is in order. 

Since you will not know the name of the person reading the letter, you can choose to start the letter off with: ‘to whom it may concern’.

Ensure that your letter is written in a formal, official tone that is suitable to be read by a government official.

What should be included in an Invitation Letter for a UK Visa?

In your letter, you should include the following information about yourself:

• Address and telephone number
• Status in the UK (such as immigration status or citizenship)
• Relationship to the visitor

Information about the visitor you are sponsoring should include:

• Relationship to you
• Length of stay and travel itinerary 
• Purpose of visit
• How their expenses will be covered

There may be other details you will need to include. For example, if you and your visitor are going to be staying elsewhere during their trip, then you will need to include the address of where you are staying and the dates you will be staying there for. 

All of the information you include must be completely truthful and accurate. If there are any inaccuracies, then the applicant’s Visitor Visa application will be refused.

Do I need to include supporting documents?

When you send your letter to the Home Office, you will also need to include supporting documents. 

The documents you will need to include with your letter are:

• Your valid UK passport
• Evidence of your status in the UK (such as a biometric residence permit)
• Proof of ownership or proof that you rent your home (such as a mortgage statement, letter from the landlord, or a tenancy agreement)
• Evidence that you have the financial means to support your visitor (such as a bank statement)
• Copies of travel, accommodation and or activity documents showing your plans

You do not need to send your original documents, scanned copies will be accepted. 

What reasons can someone use a Visitor Visa for?

As you outline in the Invitation Letter for a UK Visa the reason for the visit, you should know what counts as a valid reason to use the Visitor Visa. 

It can be used for more than just a visit to friends and family or tourism.

The visa can also be used for:

• Attending an event
• Taking a short course for up to 30 days
• Carrying out research for academic, scientific or any other purpose
• Undertaking a Permitted Paid Engagement , such as giving a lecture or performing as a musician
• Volunteer for up to 30 days
• Take an exam or study
• Attend meetings or interviews
• Medical reasons
• School exchange programmes

Additionally, the visa allows you to work remotely from the UK; however, it cannot be the main reason for a visit. 

How we can help

If you or someone you know wants to visit the UK, then we can help.

Our team of immigration experts can assist you with the drafting of an Invitation Letter for a UK Visa, as well as guide you through every step of the application process for a Standard Visitor Visa. 

Arrange a free 10-minute consultation to discuss your needs with a member of our team. After this, you can arrange a longer consultation that can last either 30 minutes, or an hour.

The team member you initially talk to will act as your point of contact in the company, and you can ask them any questions you may have. 

Get in touch with us today if you need any help with a Visitor Visa or the Invitation Letter for a UK Visa. 

Ready for assistance?

If you have any questions, or want to book an appointment with one of our legal experts, contact Woodcock Law today. Call us on +44 (0)20 7712 1705 or email [email protected].

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Sample Letter for UK Tourist Visa Application (2019 Cover Letter Template)

In this article, we are going to discuss how  you can write your UK visitor visa supporting letter in 2019.

This is because your goal is going to be the same whether you are applying for a UK, US, Canadian or a tourist visa for another country – to convince the person deciding your application that you will return to your home country and not overstay .

This is one of the most helpful things that you can do to increase your chances of a successful UK visitor visa application .

After all, the Home Office caseworkers are very suspicious people and you should do everything that you can to persuade them that you are a ‘genuine’ and ‘credible’ visitor.

There is no one set letter template that can be effectively used for all UK visitor visa applications since every application is different and unique to your own individual circumstances.

There are different aspects that your visit visa supporting letter should discuss and we will discuss each of them in turn:

• An introduction / summary of your visit visa application
• List of documents that you are including
• The purpose of your visit
• Why you will not overstay your UK visa
• The dependants that you will be applying with (if any)
• Your ability to adequately maintain yourself during your UK visit
• Whether your sponsor meets the sponsor requirements (if you have one)
• Confirmation that you are not using frequent and successive visits to make the UK your main home (if relevant)
• Potential weaknesses in your application
• Contact details of other relevant persons

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 1

Introduction/Summary

My name is [NAME] and I am [NATIONALITY] . I am applying from [COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE] and I am applying for a standard [6 month/2 year/5 year/10 year] UK visitor visa.

In discussing that I am a genuine and credible UK visitor visa, this letter will cover:

• A list of the supporting documents that have been submitted alongside this supporting letter

The purpose of my visit

• Reasons why I will comply with the terms of the visa and why I will  not overstay
• Information relating to  dependants applying with me (delete if appropriate)
• My ability to adequately maintain myself [ and any dependants (if relevant) ] during intended UK trip
• Information relating to my sponsor (delete if appropriate)
• Why I am not using frequent and successive visits to make the UK my main home [( if relevant )]
• Potential perceived weaknesses in my application
• Contact details of other relevant persons you may wish to contact

Why is this section important?

This section provides a clear outline of the things that Home Office caseworkers are most interested in.

By providing a clear and relevant structure , you are immediately letting the Home Office caseworker know that you have a good understanding of the Immigration Rules as they apply to visitor visas.

It also makes it easier for the Home Office caseworker to read. The clearer and easier you make it for the Home Office caseworker, the happier that they will be.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 2

List of included documents

In support of my UK visitor visa application, I have included the following documents:

The Home Office tend to lose documents quite often, unfortunately.

By stating that you list a certain documents, the Home Office caseworker will then know that the document may have indeed been lost on the way.

This increases the likelihood of the Home Office caseworker getting into contact and asking for the missing document .

By having something similar to the above table, you again increase the clarity and ease of reading for this cover letter.

The Home Office caseworker will be able to refer to this table to quickly identify the relevant document when considering your application and it will again provide good impression.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 3

The main purpose of my visit is to [INSERT ONE SENTENCE SUMMARY] .

[Discuss what you intend to do in the UK in more detail here]

I am fully aware of the permitted and prohibited activities found in Immigration Rules Appendix V: visitor rules .

Example Itinerary #1

The main purpose of my visit is to attend my niece’s university graduation .

The following is my itinerary and includes the likely costings of the UK visit:

23rd May (Day 1)

Hopefully, I will be flying to London Heathrow from Bangkok, Thailand. As evidenced by the attached return flight tickets and return flight ticket receipts (Appendix 8 and 9), the cost of return of this flight is £884.

24th May (Day 2)

I will be picked up at the London Heathrow by my sister and will stay at her accommodation, 22b Iverson Road, London, NW6 2HE for two nights.

Please see the attached letter of support from my sister, which has been labelled Appendix 11.

Whilst I expect that I will spend around £30 on airport food, I will incur no costs for accommodation.

25th May (Day 3)

I will attend my niece’s graduation on this day, which is the main purpose of my trip to the UK.

The graduation is taking place at the University of Leeds campus.

We will travel from my niece’s accommodation in London to the University of Leeds by train, the expected cost of which is £80 for a return train ticket (see Appendix 13).

In support of these plans, please see the attached letter from my niece’s university (Appendix 5), confirmation of my niece’s graduation (Appendix 4) and the letter of support from my niece (Appendix 7).

Since the graduation is scheduled to finish at 11.30am, this will give us plenty time to enjoy a nice meal at our favourite restaurant, ‘Almost Famous’ in Leeds.  I will have £50 set aside for this meal.

Once we have arrived back in London, I will again stay at my sister’s accommodation, which will mean that I will incur no extra costs with regards to accommodation.

26th May (Day 4)

My last day is expected to start early in the morning as my sister will drive me to London Heathrow in time for my 8am flight back to Bangkok.

I have set aside £30 for food and drink at the airport.

The total expected cost for this trip is therefore £190 for my 4-day trip, not including the return flight tickets that I have already paid £884 for.

In light of my personal savings account at Appendix 17 that shows savings of £12,200 (as converted by oanda.com), it is therefore clear that I can adequately provide for myself during my 4-day visit to the UK.

Example Itinerary #2:

The main purpose of my visit is to attend my niece’s university graduation.

The purpose of your visit is a key consideration when deciding whether the Home Office should grant your UK visitor visa application.

The clearer that your purpose for visiting the UK is, the more genuine and credible you will appear to be .

Because of this, it is therefore helpful if you are able to use this letter of support to clearly discuss your plans and the costs associated with the UK trip .

In this section of the letter of support, it will be good if you cross-reference your stated intentions with evidence that you submit in your application.

For example: I will be taking the train on the 25th May, 2020 from London Heathrow to Leeds train station, which will cost £80. Please see appendix 13 that shows this .

It will also be good to get letter of supports from family or friends that supports your stated intentions.

For example, if you are visiting a specific family member or friend in the UK, a letter of support from them will also be helpful to include.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 4

Why I will not overstay the UK visitor visa

I fully intend to return to [my home country OR make an onwards journey to COUNTRY] before my UK visitor visa expires.

I have a good life back home and I would absolutely not want to trade it for a life as an outlaw in the UK.

The following are reasons that I would you to consider when deciding my application:

#1 My good immigration history

My unblemished UK immigration history is one indication that suggests that I am likely to comply with the terms of the UK visit visa and return to my home country prior to the visa expiration.

Example : “In 2012, I was issued a UK visitor visa for 6 months (see appendix 13 which is a copy of page 34 of my attached passport). In 2015, I was also issued a UK visitor visa (see Appendix 14 which is a copy of page 36 of my attached passport. In all of the above instances, I left before the expiration of the visa. I also complied with all of the visa conditions.”

#2 My family ties to my home country

My family back home is another strong indication that I will return to my home country prior to the UK visitor visa expiring.

[Discuss family members back home here, especially if they are dependant on you].

Example : My son, Jeremiah (13 years of age) and my daughter, Jodie (15 years of age), will stay in my home country of Bangladesh during my 9-day trip to the UK. Please see their attached passport scans at Appendix 8 and 9. During my UK visit, Jeremiah and Jodie will be cared for by my husband, Andy Jones, as evidenced by my husband’s letter of support at Appendix 14, which includes a copy of his passport at Appendix 15.

#3 My financial and economic ties to my home country

My financial and economic ties to my home country are other factors that strongly suggest that I have no reason to trade my life in [HOME COUNTRY] with a life as an illegal alien in the UK.

My assets and income are discussed in more detail below, under the sub-heading ‘My ability to adequately maintain myself in the UK’.

#4 Other links with my home country

Example : I am currently studying a degree at Chiang Mai University, Thailand. Please see the attached letter from my university at Appendix 6 that confirms this. Please also see the attached term dates for my course at Appendix 7 that confirms that my intended trip to the UK is not during term-time but rather during the summer holidays.

The main reason why visit visa applications are refused is that the Home Office are scared that you will use the UK visitor visa to enter the UK,  disappear and overstay your visa illegally .

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 5

Dependants I am applying with (if relevant)

As stated in the online application form, I am applying with child dependant(s), [NAME(S) AS STATED IN PASSPORT(S), AGE(S) & THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO YOU] .

Obviously, if you are not applying with any child dependants, you can ignore this sub-heading .

However, if you are applying with child dependants, it is important that you are fully aware of the additional requirements that will apply.

In summary, you must show:

#1 That you (or your sponsor) will be able to adequately provide for any child dependants that are also applying for a UK visitor visa.

This is obviously linked with your ability to adequately maintain yourself – i.e. by the showing of assets and income.

In order to maintain a clear structure for this letter of support, you should make sure you sufficiently discuss your finances in the subheading ‘My ability to adequately maintain myself during the UK visit’ below.

#2 That all duties of care obligations with regards to child dependants will be met

Simply showing sufficient financial assets and income will not always suffice.

If, in light of all the circumstances, it is not clear how the child’s welfare will be looked after in the UK, it is likely that the application will be refused .

Like many UK visa applications, the child’s welfare is of an extremely high importance .

#3 That parental consent is given

Parental consent is a requirement for children’s UK visitor visas.

This requirement is usually satisfied where the visit visa applications are made on behalf of a child, although i t is important that you are aware of the situations where the requirement will not be met .

If you are divorced with your child’s other parent, the parent with sole responsibility or legal custody must provide parental consent, which can be met via a letter of support.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 6

My ability to adequately maintain myself during the UK visit

I confirm that I can adequately maintain myself [as well the dependants who are applying with me] . To support this, I will now discuss my sources of income and financial assets.

#1 My sources of income

#2 My assets and/or cash savings

#3 My on-going financial commitments

Example : I am employed as a journalist for The Daily Paper Company in Pakistan. I receive a gross annual salary of PKR 3,000,000 and I have permission from my employer to have paid leave for the week that I will be visiting the UK (see Appendix 8, which is a signed letter from my employer). For clarity, PKR 3,000,000 equates to 15,102 pounds sterling, as stated by the closing spot exchange rate found on www.oanda.com . As evidenced by my attached bank statements (see Appendix 3), I saved a total of PKR 1,500,000 over the past 8 months to help fund my UK visit. This is the equivalent of £7,550 pounds sterling. I also own my own house in Pakistan. Please see the attached documentation (Appendix 11-13) for 12 Wahdat Road, Lahore. The property’s worth, as stated on zoopla.com, is PKR 13,000,000 (Appendix 14).

It is crucial that you are able to convince the Home Office caseworker that you have sufficient resources to maintain and accommodate yourself adequately for the whole of your planned visit to the UK.

This includes the additional costs associated with applying with any dependant children.

If the expected cost of the visit is high when compared to your overall resources (or your sponsor’s overall resources), then questions may be raised regarding the genuineness of your intentions .

Unlike a UK spouse visa , there are no set rules regarding the amount of funds that you (or your sponsor) will need to show.

For example, there is no rule saying that an income of £10,000 is required or cash savings of £5,000 or more.

Instead, the Home Office caseworker will look at your circumstances (and your sponsor’s circumstances, if you have one) and your stated intentions and then make a decision based on that.

At the very minimum, it is clear that you have to prove that you can afford:

I) The cost of travelling to and from the UK ;

II) Any costs associated with applying with dependant children ;  and

III) What you say you intend to do in the UK (e.g. shopping or visiting a family in London).

There are a few points to note regarding evidencing assets and income .

Firstly, both your supporting letter as well as the documents that you submit should make the source of cash savings clear.

If your personal bank account shows a sudden and relatively large injection of cash into your bank, this may seem suspicious.

Secondly, you should make it clear that you can access  to the cash savings.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 7

My sponsor (include this sub-heading only if you have one)

I am being sponsored by [ SPONSOR’S NAME ], who is my [ RELATIONSHIP TO APPLICANT ]. As evidenced by the attached documentation, [ SPONSOR’S NAME ]’s [ASSETS/INCOME] is more than enough to adequately provide for myself [and my dependant children who are applying with me] during my stay in the UK.

I can confirm that the relationship between [ SPONSOR’S NAME ] and I is genuine. Please see the attached documentation regarding this, as well as the attached letter of support from [ SPONSOR’S NAME ] that confirms [ HIS/HER ] intention to sponsor me.

• Whether the relationship is personal or professional
• How you met,
• Where you first met,
• How often you meet,
• How often you communicate with each other]

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 8

Why I am not using frequent and successive visits to make the UK my home (include this sub-heading if you have previously been issued a UK visitor visa only)

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 9

Potential weaknesses in my application

Include this section only if there are any potential weaknesses in your application.

I recognise that [ REASON 1 ] can raise doubts about the genuine and credibility as a visitor.

[Discuss this here and explain why that should not adversely affect your UK visitor visa application]

I recognise that [ REASON 2 ] can raise doubts about the genuine and credibility as a visitor.

Example : In 2016 I was previously refused a UK visitor visa on the grounds that I was not able to adequately show that I can maintain myself. Please see appendix 3, which is a copy of this refusal letter. It was unfortunate that important financial documents, such as employer pay slips and bank statements, were not received by the Home Office – hence not being able to show that I could have adequately maintained myself. In any event, one month after receiving the refusal letter, I submitted another UK visitor visa application. Fortunately, the Home Office received all of the supporting documents and my UK visitor visa application was swiftly approved. In light of this, my previous UK visitor visa refusal should not adversely affect this application as not only have I shown adequate funds to cover my trip to the UK in this application, but the reason for the previous refusal does not apply to my case.

It is important to directly address the potential weaknesses of your application.

This is because Home Office caseworkers are trained specifically to identify weaknesses in applications.

SUB-HEADING NUMBER 10

Relevant contact details

I can appreciate that you may want to contact my friends and family.

If you would like to do so, the following are some friend and family member’s contact information:

[FAMILY OR FRIEND NAME 1], [RELATIONSHIP TO ME]: [PHONE NUMBER & EMAIL]

[FAMILY OR FRIEND NAME 2], [RELATIONSHIP TO ME]: [PHONE NUMBER & EMAIL]

[FAMILY OR FRIEND NAME 3], [RELATIONSHIP TO ME]: [PHONE NUMBER & EMAIL]

[FAMILY OR FRIEND NAME 4], [RELATIONSHIP TO ME]: [PHONE NUMBER & EMAIL]

[FAMILY OR FRIEND NAME 5], [RELATIONSHIP TO ME]: [PHONE NUMBER & EMAIL]

If you would like to contact any other individuals or organisations and I have not provided their contact details, please feel free to get in touch and I will be more than happy to provide them.

In some cases, the Home Office caseworker may want to contact relevant third parties in your application in order to validate information to help decide whether they think you are a genuine and credible visitor.

Hopefully you found this article helpful.

Spending time writing a comprehensive covering letter is certainly a worthwhile activity as it is the best place for you to discuss relevant pieces of information in detail.

When writing the covering letter, remember:

• Using simple, straightforward English is best .
• Try to keep the contents of your supporting letter as relevant as possible
• When you can, cross-refer to documentation throughout your supporting letter
• As long as the structure of the letter is clear, it is worthwhile discussing different aspects of your application in great detail .

Related Articles

Visitor Visa UK Application Form 2020 [45 things you NEED to know before submitting]

What are the documents required for a UK Visitor Visa? (2019 Document Checklist)

UK Visitor Visa Requirements in 2020

Long Term Visitor Visa 2019 and 2020 Guidance

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Made a Mistake on Your UK Visa Application?

Anne morris.

• 7 September 2023

IN THIS SECTION

When applying for a UK visa, it’s important to provide the Home Office with information that is correct and comprehensive to avoid delays or issues with processing and to avoid a visa refusal .

Mistakes can, however, happen. Once you realise you’ve made a mistake on your UK visa application, you should take steps to correct it.

In this guide for UK visa applicants, we explain the rules on correcting mistakes in Home Office applications, and discuss the potential implications of errors and false information on the outcome of your application.

Common UK visa application mistakes

UK visa application mistakes can range from simple spelling mistakes or typos, most of which may be immaterial to the basis of the application, to deliberate mistakes designed to fraudulently obtain a visa to which an applicant is not entitled. Somewhere in-between these extremes there are also those mistakes which are careless, but not intentionally deceptive, although run the risk of being construed by the Home Office as deliberate.

Examples of mistakes that could be potentially construed as deliberately misleading could include a failure to declare a criminal conviction, for example, where an applicant states that they have no criminal history, but they in fact have a driving conviction for speeding. It could also include where an applicant ticks “no” when asked if they have previously been refused a visa. This might be the case, even the applicant also provides clear evidence of a previous refusal, such as their passport containing a stamp confirming past refusal.

Another potentially misleading mistake could be where evidence submitted in support of a visa application clearly contradicts the information set out in the form although, for example, a form that cites an applicant’s income at £40,000 could just as easily be construed as an innocent error where the documentation demonstrates earnings of £4,000.

Implications of making a mistake on your UK visa application

If you submit a visa application with incorrect information, this could result in either the wrongful refusal of your application or the grant of a visa on an erroneous basis.

Wrongful refusal of a visa application

In circumstances where there has been minor but immaterial mistakes in an application, such as typographical errors, the Home Office caseworker should not refuse the application on this basis. This could be, for example, where an applicant has given an incorrect postcode or misspelt a name on their application form. However, an application may still be refused if the caseworker is not satisfied that the requirements of the rules are met, for example, if the applicant has claimed an income of £40,000, but has provided evidence for £4,000, even if the higher figure cited is an innocent mistake, the application may be refused if, on the evidence provided, the required income threshold is not met.

If your visa application is refused because of a mistake, you may be able to apply for an administrative review at a cost of £80, although an application must be submitted within 28 days of receiving your decision. It can then take up to 6 months or more to receive the result of the review and, even if a mistake was an innocent oversight, this does not necessarily guarantee that the outcome will be in your favour. You may need to reapply.

The grant of a visa on an erroneous basis

If your visa application is successful, based on a mistake that had not been discovered at the time a decision was made by the Home Office, once you realise that there has been a mistake, you are duty bound to report this to the Home Office.

In some cases, any mistake, innocent or not, may result in the revocation of your visa, especially if the information was material to the decision to grant you leave. However, in circumstances where the Home Office subsequently discovers the mistake, and you have failed to report this yourself, this is more likely to lead to a finding of deliberate deception.

Lying on a UK visa application

The consequences of lying on your visa application can be very serious, where mistakes are far more likely to lead to refusal of an immigration application or revocation of an existing visa where the Home Office interprets the matter as a deliberate attempt to deceive.

Deception is no longer defined under the UK’s Immigration Rules but can include making false representations or submitting false documents, even if not material to your application, or failing to disclose material facts, where silence or incomplete information can amount to non-disclosure. By using deception in an application for entry clearance or permission to stay in the UK, this will put you in clear breach of UK immigration law.

If a finding of deception is made against you, your visa will be automatically refused or revoked. You may also be banned from entering, or re-entering, the UK for a period of up to 10 years. Even in cases where you were not aware of any mistake, including where false representations have been made by third parties on your behalf, your visa application can still be refused on grounds of suitability. Equally, if your visa has already been granted, you can be refused entry to the UK by border officials, and detained and deported.

In all cases, but especially where any mistake is interpreted by officials as an attempt to mislead or deceive, it will then prove extremely difficult to apply for another visa in the future. This is because, even after any ban is lifted, a subsequent application is highly likely to be refused due to your adverse immigration history.

How do you correct a UK visa application mistake?

If you realise that a mistake has been made on your visa application, having already submitted your application form, you will need to contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) . UKVI is the division of the Home Office responsible for making visa decisions. However, the way in which you address any mistake made will depend on the nature of the error in question. For example, if it is a simple error, such as a spelling mistake, you may be able to contact UKVI to ask for the mistake to be amended. In contrast, if the mistake goes to the very root of your visa application, you may need to ask UKVI to cancel your application so that you can start again and re-apply.

Importantly, even though mistakes on a visa application can lead to a refusal decision, this is not necessarily always the case. If application mistakes are thought to be innocent, refusal is not mandatory. It therefore follows that if you notify UKVI of any mistake, once this becomes apparent, the more likely the mistake will be interpreted as innocent.

Still, applicants are strongly advised to seek expert legal prior to addressing any UK visa application mistake. This is because it is important to know how best to approach the problem, and to understand the potential consequences of this on the outcome. In some cases, you may be advised to withdraw your visa application altogether, although your application fee will only be refunded if UKVI has not yet started processing your case. In other cases, a well-worded cover letter to the Home Office can often help to pre-empt any possible allegations of deception and clear up any misunderstandings.

How to contact UKVI to amend a UK visa application mistake

You can contact UKVI on the .gov website from both inside and outside the UK to amend a UK visa application mistake.

You will be asked where are you contacting UKVI from. The online tool will then ask you what you need help with or what your question is about. You will need to select the tick box for ‘something else’. You must then choose the language you want to use to speak to someone on the phone or to get a reply by email. If you would like a member of staff from the contact centre to communicate with you in a language other then English, you can choose from either Arabic, Cantonese, French, Hindi, Mandarin, Russian or Spanish.

Contact UKVI from outside the UK

To contact UKVI from outside the UK because you have made a mistake in your online application, you have the option of either sending an online query or by telephoning UKVI directly. Each online enquiry will cost you £2.74, although this cost includes your initial email plus any follow-up emails you send relating to the same enquiry. You will need a debit or credit card to use the online messaging service, and will be asked to enter your payment details before sending your message. However, you will not be charged until your message has actually been submitted. UKVI should then reply within 5 working days.

If your message is more urgent, you should telephone UKVI on +44 (0)300 790 6268, selecting option 1. Calls will cost 69 pence per minute on top of your standard network charges. If you cannot contact UK 0300 numbers, you can instead telephone +44 (0)203 875 4669. Importantly, UKVI contact centre staff cannot give you advice about your personal circumstances and have no involvement in the outcome of visa applications.

Contact UKVI from inside the UK

To contact UKVI from inside the UK to discuss a mistake on your visa application, you can telephone 0300 790 6268, selecting option 2. These lines are open Monday to Thursday, excluding bank holidays, 9am to 4:45pm and Friday, 9am to 4:30pm.

How do I ask UKVI to cancel my visa application?

You can ask UKVI to cancel or withdraw an application for a visa or visa extension. You can then re-apply, this time ensuring that your application is mistake-free. However, whether or not you will be entitled to a refund will depend on what stage your application is at.

The way in which you cancel a visa application, and the deadline for getting a refund, will depend on the type of visa that you have applied for and how you were asked to prove your identity. You would have been asked either to attend an appointment to provide your biometrics and identity document in person or to use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ smartphone app to upload your photo and to scan your ID document.

If you were asked to attend an appointment but have not yet done so, you can cancel your visa application online and your fee will be refunded. If you applied within the UK, you will need to fill in the online form to withdraw your application. If you applied outside the UK, you will need to sign in to your UKVI account using the link from your sign-up email. If you have already attended your appointment, you will need to fill in the online form to withdraw your application if you applied within the UK, or contact UKVI to withdraw your application if you applied outside the UK, but your fee will not usually be refunded.

If you used the smartphone app when you applied, you can cancel your application online. Your fee will be refunded provided you have not selected ‘confirm and upload’, either to upload your evidence or to confirm you do not have anything to upload, or you withdraw your application before the deadline given for uploading your evidence. To cancel, sign in to your UKVI account, go to your dashboard and select ‘Withdraw this application’.

If you are eligible for a refund of your application fee, it will be automatically paid into the bank account that you used to pay your fees when you applied. This can take up to 28 days. You cannot stop a cancellation request once this has been received by UKVI and, importantly, if you are already in the UK, you may lose your permission to stay.

Need assistance?

DavidsonMorris is a dedicated UK immigration law firm. We can help you understand your UK visa options and guide and support you through the Home Office application process. Speak to one of our UK immigration specialists today.

UK visa application mistake FAQs

What happens if you lie on a uk visa application.

Providing false information on your visa application is a basis for refusal. Even if your visa has already been granted, you can be refused entry at the UK border and banned from entering for a period of 10 years.

What is deception in visa application?

Deception in a visa application can either mean making false representations or submitting false documents, even if not material to the application, or failing to disclose material facts, for example, as to any financial or relationship requirement.

What to do if there is a mistake in visa application?

You should contact UKVI to try to amend any mistake on your visa application before a decision is made. This is because an application may still be refused on eligibility or suitability grounds, even if the mistake was unintentional.

Can I edit my visa application after payment?

It may be possible to edit your visa application, even after you have submitted your visa application fee, by contacting UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). UKVI is the division of the Home Office responsible for making visa decisions.

Last updated: 17 September 2023

Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.

She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.

Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator , and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals

• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Guide to Travelling to the UK
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Explore Commonwealth Visa Options
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ How to Live Permanently in the UK
• Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ UK Immigration Appeal & Status Guide 2024

About DavidsonMorris

As employer solutions lawyers, DavidsonMorris offers a complete and cost-effective capability to meet employers’ needs across UK immigration and employment law, HR and global mobility .

Led by Anne Morris, one of the UK’s preeminent immigration lawyers, and with rankings in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners , we’re a multi-disciplinary team helping organisations to meet their people objectives, while reducing legal risk and nurturing workforce relations.

Legal Disclaimer

The matters contained in this article are intended to be for general information purposes only. This article does not constitute legal advice, nor is it a complete or authoritative statement of the law, and should not be treated as such. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information is correct at the time of writing, no warranty, express or implied, is given as to its accuracy and no liability is accepted for any error or omission. Before acting on any of the information contained herein, expert legal advice should be sought.

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• Entering and staying in the UK
• Immigration rules

Home Secretary action delivering major cut in migration

Robust Home Secretary action has driven an almost 80% fall in student dependant applications in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

Strong action taken by the Home Secretary to transform the UK’s immigration system and cut unsustainable and unfair levels of migration is delivering, new data published today shows. 

The number of dependants accompanying students to the UK has drastically fallen by almost 80%, with more than 26,000 fewer student visa applications made from January to March 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. 

Government measures to tighten student visas, which came into force in January, have prevented most international students starting courses this year from bringing family members. Students can also no longer switch their visa before completing their course, preventing people from using the route as a backdoor to work in the UK, while clamping down on institutions which undermine the UK’s reputation by selling immigration not education.

The government recognises the importance of attracting the brightest and best, whilst delivering on our commitment to reduce legal migration to sustainable levels, with the data published.

Home Secretary, James Cleverly, said:  

Ever-spiralling numbers were eroding the British people’s confidence in our immigration system, burdening public services and supressing wages.  When I promised to deliver the largest-ever cut in legal migration, I knew we must also work to show the impact of our action as soon as practically possible.   This data shows a significant fall in numbers on the first of our measures to take effect whilst underlining why necessary action was taken to cut unsustainable numbers of care worker dependants. This does not mark the end of the road in our plan to cut migration, there is more still to come. Over the coming months, we will continue to show the pace of our progress as we deliver the control the public rightly expect.

The published figures also reveal that in the first quarter of 2024, dependant applications on the Health and Care visa continued to significantly outnumber main applicants. 

The government has been consistently clear that dependant visa numbers have been both disproportionate and unsustainable, which is why decisive action was taken to restrict care workers from bringing dependants. This measure came into effect on 11 March, meaning its impact will be fully shown in future statistics. Doctors, nurses and other allied health professionals remain able to bring dependants. 

In parallel, care providers acting as sponsors for migrants in England are now required to register with the industry regulator, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), to crack down on worker exploitation and abuse within the sector.   

There is clear evidence that care workers have been offered visas under false pretences, recruited into non-existent jobs or paid far below the minimum wage required for their work, exploiting them while undercutting British workers. 

Immigration is not the long-term answer to social care needs, and the Department for Health and Social Care is leading a programme of work to grow and support the domestic social care workforce. This includes better training, clearer career paths and improved job prospects through a new accredited qualification. 

The new data also includes the final data before the general salary threshold for those arriving on the Skilled Worker visa rose from £26,200 to £38,700, meaning the impact of this measure will also be revealed in future statistics releases. 

Taken together, the Home Secretary’s package to reduce legal migration will mean approximately 300,000 people arriving in the UK last year would no longer be able to. It also includes:  

commissioning the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to carry out a rapid review of the Graduate route for international students to prevent abuse, protect the integrity and quality of UK higher education and ensure it works in the best interests of the UK

replacing the Shortage Occupation List with a new Immigration Salary List, with employers no longer able to pay migrants less than UK workers in shortage occupations

raising the minimum income requirement for the family visa, to reach the level of the Skilled Worker visa, currently £38,700 by early 2025

Delivery of this comprehensive series of measures comes as the government cracks down on rising migration, both legal and illegal, and reforms the immigration system. The plan is working, with small boats crossings down by around a third last year, and work continuing to tackle this global challenge including working with international partners and clamping down on the criminal gangs with stepped-up enforcement. 

Now that the Safety of Rwanda Act has passed and the Treaty with Rwanda has been ratified, the government is entering the final phase of operationalising this landmark policy, with the first flight set to take off to Rwanda in 9 to 11 weeks.

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