A good moral character letter is a crucial component of many immigration applications. It serves as character evidence, providing immigration officials with insights into an applicant’s trustworthiness, integrity, and adherence to societal norms. These letters are written by individuals who know the applicant well and can attest to their positive character traits. They offer a more holistic view of the applicant, complementing the formal documentation submitted.
When writing a character letter, focus on specific examples of the applicant’s behavior that demonstrate their good moral character. Avoid vague statements and instead, illustrate their positive qualities with anecdotes and observations. Emphasize traits such as honesty, reliability, respectfulness, community involvement, and adherence to the law. Clearly state your relationship to the applicant and the duration of your acquaintance to establish credibility. Remember to proofread carefully for any errors before submitting the letter.
5 Sample Good Moral Character Letters for Immigration
Sample Letter 1: From a Neighbor
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s A-Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for [Specify purpose of immigration application]. I have known [Applicant’s Name] as a neighbor for the past five years. During this time, I have found them to be a responsible, considerate, and trustworthy individual. For example, last winter, when a major snowstorm hit our area, [Applicant’s Name] helped shovel snow for several elderly neighbors, including myself, without being asked. They are always willing to lend a helping hand and contribute to our community. I have never known [Applicant’s Name] to be involved in any illegal activity or display any behavior that would indicate a lack of good moral character. I believe [Applicant’s Name] would be a valuable asset to the United States.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 2: From a Colleague
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Recommendation for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s A-Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Applicant’s Name] for [Specify purpose of immigration application]. I have worked with [Applicant’s Name] at [Company Name] for the past three years. [Applicant’s Name] is a dedicated and hardworking colleague who consistently demonstrates integrity and professionalism. They are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that tasks are completed to the highest standard. For instance, when our team was facing a tight deadline on a major project, [Applicant’s Name] volunteered to work late nights to ensure we met the deadline successfully. Furthermore, [Applicant’s Name] is a team player and always treats others with respect and kindness. I have no doubt that [Applicant’s Name] possesses strong moral character and would make a positive contribution to American society.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 3: From a Religious Leader
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Church/Organization Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Character Reference for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s A-Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Applicant’s Name], who has been a member of our congregation at [Church/Organization Name] for the past seven years. I have observed [Applicant’s Name] to be a devout and compassionate individual who consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to ethical and moral principles. [Applicant’s Name] is an active volunteer in our community outreach programs, regularly assisting with food drives and providing support to families in need. They are also actively involved in mentoring young people and promoting positive values. I can attest to [Applicant’s Name]’s honesty, integrity, and genuine concern for others. Their contributions to our community are significant. I wholeheartedly recommend [Applicant’s Name] and believe they embody the qualities of a person of good moral character.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 4: From a Friend
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s A-Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing this letter to support the immigration application of [Applicant’s Name]. I have been friends with [Applicant’s Name] for over ten years, and I can confidently say that they are a person of outstanding moral character. Throughout our friendship, [Applicant’s Name] has consistently demonstrated integrity, honesty, and empathy. For example, [Applicant’s Name] has always been someone I can rely on during difficult times. Several years ago, when I was facing a personal crisis, [Applicant’s Name] provided unwavering support and helped me navigate through the challenges. [He/She] is always willing to put others before [himself/herself]. I believe that [Applicant’s Name] possesses the qualities that would make [him/her] a valuable member of American society.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 5: From a Teacher/Professor
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[School/University Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Re: Character Reference for [Applicant’s Name], A# [Applicant’s A-Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for [Specify purpose of immigration application]. I had [Applicant’s Name] as a student in my [Course Name] class at [School/University Name] during the [Semester/Year]. [Applicant’s Name] was an exemplary student who consistently demonstrated intellectual curiosity, a strong work ethic, and respect for their peers and instructors. [He/She] always came to class prepared and actively participated in discussions. Furthermore, [Applicant’s Name] consistently adhered to the academic integrity policies of the university. I recall one instance where [Applicant’s Name] reported a classmate for plagiarism, demonstrating a strong commitment to ethical conduct. [Applicant’s Name] is a bright and dedicated individual who possesses the qualities necessary to succeed in the United States.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion
These sample letters provide a strong foundation for composing effective good moral character letters for immigration purposes. Remember to personalize each letter with specific details and anecdotes that highlight the applicant’s positive qualities. By providing concrete examples and demonstrating the applicant’s adherence to ethical principles, you can significantly strengthen their immigration application.