How to Write an Invitation Letter that Helps an Indian Visitor Get a U.S. B-1/B-2 Visa (2025 Edition)

1. Why send an invitation letter?

Although U.S. consular officers do not require an invitation letter for a B-1/B-2 visa, they still read it carefully because it answers three key questions at a glance:

• Who is coming, and why?
• Where will the guest stay, and for how long?
• Who covers the costs and guarantees the visitor will return to India?

2. Must-have details (checklist)

Host (you, in the U.S.)

• Full legal name, U.S. address, phone & email
• Immigration status (U.S. citizen/green-card/visa type)
• Relationship to visitor
• Signature & date

Visitor (your Indian guest)

• Full name (as in passport)
• Date of birth & passport #
• Home address in India

Trip specifics

• Exact entry & exit dates
• Cities to be visited
• Purpose (family visit, tourism, business, wedding, etc.)
• Who pays expenses & where the guest will stay

3. Supporting documents that raise approval odds

1. Copy of your U.S. passport/green-card/visa

2. Proof of residence (lease, deed, or recent utility bill)

3. Bank statement or recent tax return if you promise to pay expenses

4. Round-trip flight itinerary or wedding/conference invite, if already booked

5. Photos or chat logs showing your genuine relationship (optional but useful)

Bundle scans of these docs with the letter so your guest can upload everything to the U.S. Visa Applicant Portal before scheduling the interview.

4. Formatting & style tips (keep it “friendly-formal”)

• One page, 3 – 5 short paragraphs

• 11- or 12-point font, left aligned

• If it’s a business visit, print on company letterhead

• Date format: Month DD, YYYY (e.g., June 18, 2025)

• Sign in blue or black ink, then scan to PDF

5. Download-ready templates

6. Common mistakes that delay approvals

• Leaving out dates or relationship details—vagueness raises red flags.

• Making it too informal—remember it’s an official document.

• No proof of funds or housing—consular officers want facts, not promises. 

• Unsigned digital drafts—always sign before scanning.  

7. FAQs

Q1: Do letters need to be notarized?

Usually no for Indian posts; a signed PDF is fine unless the consulate asks otherwise. 

Q2: Can one letter cover multiple visitors?

Yes—list each traveler’s full details in separate bullet points.

Q3: How early should I send the letter?

Aim for < 60 days before the visa interview.