A well-crafted support letter can significantly strengthen an immigration application. These letters provide personal testimonials and evidence of a petitioner’s character, relationships, and contributions, adding a human element to the often-complex legal process. Whether you’re seeking a visa, green card, or asylum, a compelling support letter can make a real difference in the outcome.
This guide provides 23 sample support letters for various immigration scenarios. Use these samples as a starting point to tailor a letter that accurately reflects your personal experience and observations. Remember, authenticity and specific details are key to creating a powerful and impactful letter. We’ll also highlight essential elements of a strong support letter to ensure yours makes a positive impression on immigration officials.
23 Support Letter Samples for Immigration
Sample 1: Family-Based Immigration (Spouse)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Affidavit of Support for [Applicant’s Full Name], Application for Permanent Residence
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing this letter to wholeheartedly support the application of my [relationship, e.g., wife], [Applicant’s Full Name], for permanent residence in the United States. I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [number] years, and we have been married for [number] years. Since our marriage on [date], we have built a loving and supportive home together in [city, state].
[Applicant’s Name] is a [positive character traits, e.g., kind, compassionate, hard-working] individual who is deeply committed to our family and our community. She is a [brief description of Applicant’s activities, e.g., dedicated homemaker, active volunteer, passionate student]. Her presence in my life has enriched it immeasurably.
I am financially stable and fully capable of providing for [Applicant’s Name]’s needs. I am employed as a [your occupation] at [your employer] and earn an annual income of [your annual income]. I have attached copies of my tax returns and pay stubs as proof of my income and employment.
I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] will be a valuable asset to the United States. I urge you to approve her application for permanent residence.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: Friend Supporting Immigration (General)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to express my strong support for [Applicant’s Full Name]’s application for [Type of Application, e.g., asylum, visa]. I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [number] years, and during that time I have come to know [him/her/them] as a [positive qualities, e.g., honest, responsible, caring] person.
I have witnessed [Applicant’s Name]’s [positive contributions, e.g., strong work ethic, dedication to community, resilience in the face of adversity]. [Provide specific examples. For example, “I have seen her volunteer regularly at the local soup kitchen.”] I believe that [Applicant’s Name] would be a valuable addition to our society.
I am aware of the circumstances surrounding [Applicant’s Name]’s application and believe that [he/she/they] deserve a fair and just outcome. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] will abide by all laws and regulations of the United States.
Thank you for considering my letter of support.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 3: Employer Supporting Employee’s Visa Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[Company Phone Number]
[Company Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Support for [Employee’s Full Name]’s Application for [Visa Type]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to strongly support [Employee’s Full Name]’s application for a [Visa Type, e.g., H-1B visa]. [Employee’s Name] has been employed at [Company Name] as a [Employee’s Job Title] since [Date of Hire].
During [his/her/their] tenure at [Company Name], [Employee’s Name] has consistently demonstrated [key skills and accomplishments, e.g., exceptional technical skills, strong leadership abilities, dedication to project completion]. [Provide specific examples. For instance, “He played a crucial role in the successful launch of our new product line, resulting in a 20% increase in sales.”]
[Employee’s Name]’s expertise in [specific field] is invaluable to our company, and [his/her/their] departure would significantly impact our operations. We are committed to sponsoring [his/her/their] visa and providing [him/her/them] with the necessary support to continue working legally in the United States.
We believe that [Employee’s Name] makes significant contributions to our company and the US economy, and we urge you to approve [his/her/their] visa application.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Landlord Supporting Tenant’s Immigration Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Tenant’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing this letter to support the application of [Tenant’s Full Name] for [Type of Application]. I am [Tenant’s Full Name]’s landlord, and they have been renting my property located at [Property Address] since [Start Date].
During their tenancy, [Tenant’s Full Name] has consistently been a responsible and respectful tenant. They always pay their rent on time, maintain the property in good condition, and are considerate of their neighbors. I have never had any issues with them.
[Tenant’s Full Name] has been a valuable member of our community. They are [positive characteristics, e.g., friendly, helpful, always willing to lend a hand]. I believe they would continue to be a positive asset to the United States.
I fully support [Tenant’s Full Name]’s application and hope that you will give it your favorable consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Teacher Supporting Student’s Immigration Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[School Name]
[School Address]
[School Phone Number]
[School Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Student’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to express my strong support for [Student’s Full Name]’s application for [Type of Application]. I have been [Student’s Name]’s teacher at [School Name] for the past [Number] years, in [Subject(s)].
[Student’s Name] is an exceptional student. [He/She/They] is/are [positive academic traits, e.g., bright, hardworking, dedicated, eager to learn]. [Provide specific examples. For instance, “He consistently earns top grades in my class and actively participates in classroom discussions.”] [He/She/They] also [positive personal traits, e.g., respectful, responsible, a good role model for other students].
[Student’s Name] has demonstrated a strong commitment to [his/her/their] education and a desire to contribute positively to our school community. [Provide examples of extracurricular activities or volunteer work]. I believe that [Student’s Name] has the potential to make significant contributions to society.
I strongly recommend [Student’s Name] for [Type of Application] and have no doubt that [he/she/they] will be a valuable asset to the United States.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 6: Religious Leader Supporting Immigration Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Religious Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[Organization Phone Number]
[Organization Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to offer my full support for the application of [Applicant’s Full Name] for [Type of Application]. I am the [Your Title, e.g., Pastor, Imam, Rabbi] at [Religious Organization Name], and I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years.
[Applicant’s Name] is a valued member of our congregation. [He/She/They] is/are [positive character traits, e.g., devout, compassionate, generous, actively involved]. [Provide specific examples. For instance, “She volunteers regularly with our outreach programs to the homeless.”]
[Applicant’s Name] embodies the values of [Religious Organization Name], and [he/she/they] consistently demonstrates a commitment to serving others and upholding ethical principles. [He/She/They] has shown [resilience/dedication/compassion] during [difficult situations, if applicable, e.g., illness, loss of loved one].
I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] would be a valuable addition to the United States, and I urge you to approve [his/her/their] application.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 7: Neighbor Supporting Immigration Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to support the application of [Applicant’s Full Name] for [Type of Application]. I am a neighbor of [Applicant’s Name], and I have lived next door to [him/her/them] at [Address] for [Number] years.
During that time, I have found [Applicant’s Name] to be a [positive qualities, e.g., friendly, helpful, responsible] neighbor. [He/She/They] is/are always willing to lend a hand and contribute to our community. [Provide specific examples. For instance, “He helps me with yard work regularly, and she organizes our neighborhood watch program.”]
[Applicant’s Name] is a valued member of our neighborhood, and [his/her/their] presence has made our community a better place to live. I believe that [Applicant’s Name] would be a positive asset to the United States.
I fully support [Applicant’s Name]’s application and hope that you will give it your favorable consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 8: Doctor Supporting Medical Need for Immigration
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Medical Facility Name]
[Facility Address]
[Facility Phone Number]
[Facility Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Patient’s Full Name], Regarding [Medical Condition]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to provide medical information and support for the immigration application of my patient, [Patient’s Full Name]. I am a [Your Specialization, e.g., physician, psychiatrist] and have been treating [Patient’s Name] since [Date].
[Patient’s Name] has been diagnosed with [Medical Condition]. This condition requires ongoing medical care and access to specialized treatments that are available in the United States. [Describe the condition and its impact on the patient’s life. Be specific. For instance, “The severity of her PTSD requires regular therapy sessions and medication management, which are crucial for her mental well-being and ability to function.”]
Denying [Patient’s Name]’s application could have serious consequences for [his/her/their] health and well-being. Continued access to medical care in the United States is essential for [him/her/their] long-term health and quality of life. I have attached relevant medical records for your review.
I urge you to consider the medical needs of [Patient’s Name] and approve [his/her/their] application for immigration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
[Medical License Number]
Sample 9: Domestic Violence Advocate Supporting Immigration
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[Organization Phone Number]
[Organization Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Survivor’s Full Name], VAWA Self-Petition
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to strongly support the VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) self-petition of [Survivor’s Full Name]. I am a [Your Title, e.g., Domestic Violence Advocate, Counselor] at [Organization Name], and I have been working with [Survivor’s Name] since [Date].
[Survivor’s Name] has experienced [types of abuse, e.g., physical, emotional, financial] abuse at the hands of [abuser’s name or relationship to survivor]. This abuse has had a significant impact on [Survivor’s Name]’s physical and mental health, as well as [his/her/their] ability to function independently. [Provide specific examples of the abuse and its effects, *without revealing confidential information that could endanger the survivor.* For instance, “She has shared with me instances of being financially controlled by her abuser, preventing her from accessing education or employment.”]
[Survivor’s Name] is working to rebuild [his/her/their] life and create a safe and stable future for [himself/herself/themselves] and [his/her/their] children (if applicable). Approving this self-petition will provide [Survivor’s Name] with the opportunity to become independent and escape the cycle of violence. [He/She/They] deserves protection under the VAWA law.
I urge you to approve [Survivor’s Name]’s VAWA self-petition and provide [him/her/them] with the opportunity to rebuild [his/her/their] life free from abuse. [Organization Name] is committed to supporting [Survivor’s Name] throughout this process.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 10: Former Co-worker Supporting Immigration Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to express my support for [Applicant’s Full Name]’s application for [Type of Application]. I was a co-worker of [Applicant’s Name] at [Company Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. We worked together in the [Department] department.
During that time, I found [Applicant’s Name] to be a [positive qualities, e.g., dedicated, hard-working, team player]. [He/She/They] consistently demonstrated [his/her/their] [skills/abilities, e.g., problem-solving skills, communication skills, ability to work under pressure]. [Provide specific examples. For instance, “She consistently went above and beyond to meet deadlines and helped train new employees.”]
[Applicant’s Name] is a valuable asset to any workplace, and I believe that [he/she/they] would be a positive addition to the United States. I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] will be a responsible and law-abiding resident.
I wholeheartedly support [Applicant’s Name]’s application and hope that it is favorably considered.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 11: Business Partner Supporting Immigration Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[Company Phone Number]
[Company Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to strongly support the application of [Applicant’s Full Name] for [Type of Application]. I am a business partner with [Applicant’s Name] at [Company Name], where I serve as [Your Title]. We have been business partners since [Date Started].
[Applicant’s Name] is an integral part of our business and has made significant contributions to its success. [He/She/They] is/are responsible for [Applicant’s Responsibilities], and [his/her/their] expertise in [Area of Expertise] is invaluable to our company. [Provide specific examples of their contributions. For instance, “He developed a new marketing strategy that increased our sales by 30%.”]
[Applicant’s Name]’s presence in the United States is essential for the continued growth and success of our business. [He/She/They] plays a vital role in [his/her/their] continued legal stay in the U.S. is paramount to the success of our organization.
I urge you to approve [Applicant’s Name]’s application for [Type of Application]. [He/She/They] is/are a valuable member of our company and the community.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 12: Mentor Supporting Immigration Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization/Affiliation, if applicable]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to offer my strong support for the application of [Applicant’s Full Name] for [Type of Application]. I have served as a mentor to [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years, since [Date].
During this time, I have been consistently impressed by [Applicant’s Name]’s [positive qualities, e.g., dedication, intelligence, work ethic, resilience]. [He/She/They] has/have demonstrated a strong commitment to [his/her/their] personal and professional growth, actively seeking opportunities to learn and develop new skills. [Provide specific examples. For instance, “She consistently seeks feedback and implements it effectively. She also volunteered to lead a new project, demonstrating her leadership potential.”]
[Applicant’s Name] possesses the qualities and drive to make a significant positive impact on society. [He/She/They] is/are a responsible, ethical, and dedicated individual who is committed to contributing to the community. I believe [he/she/they] would be a valuable asset to the United States.
I strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for [Type of Application] and have no doubt that [he/she/they] will succeed in [his/her/their] endeavors.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 13: Social Worker Supporting Immigration Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[Organization Phone Number]
[Organization Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to provide my professional support for the application of [Applicant’s Full Name] for [Type of Application]. I am a licensed social worker at [Organization Name], and I have been working with [Applicant’s Name] since [Date].
During my time working with [Applicant’s Name], I have observed [his/her/their] [positive qualities, e.g., resilience, determination, commitment to family]. [He/She/They] has/have faced significant challenges with [his/her/their] head held high, and [has/have] actively worked to overcome these challenges. [Provide specific examples *while maintaining client confidentiality*. For instance, “He has consistently attended therapy sessions and is actively working to address past trauma.”] [He/She/They] is/are committed to building a better future for [himself/herself/themselves] and [his/her/their] family.
[Applicant’s Name] is a strong and resourceful individual who is dedicated to contributing positively to society. I believe [he/she/they] would be a valuable asset to the United States. Providing [him/her/them] with the chance to legally reside here would allow them to find a better life and the resources and network they need.
I strongly urge you to approve [Applicant’s Name]’s application for [Type of Application].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
[Social Work License Number, if applicable]
Sample 14: Volunteer Coordinator Supporting Immigration Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[Organization Phone Number]
[Organization Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Volunteer’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for the application of [Volunteer’s Full Name] for [Type of Application]. I am the Volunteer Coordinator at [Organization Name], and [Volunteer’s Name] has been a dedicated volunteer with our organization since [Date].
[Volunteer’s Name] has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to our mission of [Organization’s Mission]. [He/She/They] has/have contributed significantly to our work through [his/her/their] [specific volunteer activities, e.g., tutoring children, preparing meals for the homeless, providing administrative support]. [Provide specific examples. For instance, “She has volunteered over 200 hours this year tutoring underprivileged children in reading and math.”]
[Volunteer’s Name] is a compassionate, reliable, and dedicated individual who is deeply committed to serving the community. [His/Her/Their] contributions have had a positive impact on the lives of many individuals we serve. I am confident that [he/she/they] will continue to be a valuable asset to our community.
I wholeheartedly support [Volunteer’s Name]’s application and urge you to give it your favorable consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 15: Professor Supporting Former Student’s Immigration Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[University Name]
[Department Name]
[University Address]
[University Phone Number]
[University Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Student’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Student’s Full Name] for [Type of Application]. I was [Student’s Name]’s professor at [University Name] in the [Department] department. I taught [him/her/them] in [Course Name(s)] between [Start Date] and [End Date].
[Student’s Name] was an outstanding student in my class(es). [He/She/They] consistently demonstrated [positive academic qualities, e.g., intellectual curiosity, critical thinking skills, strong work ethic]. [Provide specific examples. For instance, “She consistently participated actively in class discussions, asked insightful questions, and submitted well-researched and thoughtful assignments.”]
[Student’s Name] possesses the intellectual abilities and personal qualities necessary to succeed in [his/her/their] chosen field. I am confident that [he/she/they] will make significant contributions to society. I recommend them for immigration with my full conviction.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 16: Community Leader Supporting Immigration Application
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization Name, if applicable]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to lend my strong support to the application of [Applicant’s Full Name] for [Type of Application]. As a [Your Title, e.g., community leader, local activist] in [Community Name], I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years.
During that time, I have been consistently impressed by [Applicant’s Name]’s dedication to our community and [his/her/their] commitment to making a positive difference. [He/She/They] has/have been actively involved in [specific community activities, e.g., volunteering at the local food bank, organizing neighborhood clean-ups, advocating for local issues]. [Provide specific examples. For instance, “He spearheaded the effort to revitalize our local park, creating a safe and welcoming space for families.”]
[Applicant’s Name] is a valuable member of our community, and [his/her/their] contributions have had a significant positive impact on the lives of many residents. I believe that [Applicant’s Name] will continue to be an asset to our community and to the United States.
I urge you to give [Applicant’s Name]’s application your favorable consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 17: Family Friend Supporting Immigration Application (Long-term Relationship)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS Officer
[USCIS Address]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Full Name], Application for [Type of Application]
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to wholeheartedly support the application of [Applicant’s Full Name] for [Type of Application]. Our families have been close friends for [Number] years, since [Year]. I have known [Applicant’s Name] since [He/She/They] was/were a child.
Throughout the years, I have witnessed [Applicant’s Name] grow into a [positive character traits, e.g., kind, compassionate, responsible, intelligent] individual. [Provide specific anecdotes or stories that illustrate these qualities. For instance, “I remember when she volunteered to help elderly neighbors after a hurricane, demonstrating her selflessness.”]
I consider [Applicant’s Name] to be a member of our extended family. [He/She/They] is/are a person of strong moral character and a deep commitment to [his/her/their] family and community. I am confident that [he/she/they] would be a valuable asset to the United States.
I urge you to approve [Applicant’s Name]’s application and allow [him