Example: Invitation Letter for B2 Tourist Visa
The Story Behind This Letter
This letter was used to bring a mother-in-law from Vietnam to the United States. She failed her first interview because she did not present enough documentation. The US Consulate denied her under Section 214(b).
Section 214(b) states, in part: "Every alien (visa applicant) shall be presumed to be an immigrant until he establishes to the satisfaction of the officer, at the time of the application for a visa... that he is entitled to nonimmigrant status." This means the visa officer is required by law to view all applicants as intending to immigrate until they prove otherwise.
A 214(b) denial is not the end of the world. After reapplying with this invitation letter, the consulate simply granted the travel visa.
What Makes a Good Invitation Letter?
A strong invitation letter should:
- Be written by the US-based inviter (citizen or permanent resident)
- State your relationship to the applicant clearly
- Explain the purpose and duration of the visit
- Confirm you will cover expenses if applicable
- Demonstrate the applicant has strong ties to Vietnam (property, family, job) that will compel them to return
- Include your contact information so the consulate can reach you
Sample Invitation Letter
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
Visa Officer
US Consulate General
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Dear Visa Officer,
I am writing to invite my mother-in-law, [Applicant Full Name], date of birth [DOB], passport number [Passport #], to visit me and my family in the United States from approximately [Start Date] to [End Date].
I am a United States citizen residing at the above address. My wife, [Spouse Name], is the daughter of the applicant and is also a permanent resident of the United States. We would like [Applicant] to visit us so that she may spend time with her grandchildren and attend [specific occasion if applicable].
I will be responsible for all expenses during her stay, including accommodation, food, and transportation. She will be staying at my home at the address listed above.
[Applicant] has strong ties to Vietnam. She owns property at [address in Vietnam], has other children and grandchildren residing in Vietnam, and has lived in Vietnam her entire life. She fully intends to return to Vietnam at the end of her visit.
Please feel free to contact me at [phone/email] if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
Tips for a Successful B2 Application
- More documentation is always better. Bank statements, property deeds, family photos, and employment letters all help.
- Demonstrate ties to Vietnam. Property ownership, other family members in Vietnam, and employment are the strongest ties.
- Be specific about the visit. A vague "to visit family" is weaker than "to attend my grandson's first birthday on [date]."
- Don't give up after a 214(b) denial. You can reapply immediately with stronger documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I reapply after a 214(b) denial?
You can reapply immediately, but it's best to wait until you have significantly stronger documentation. Reapplying with the same materials will likely result in another denial.
Does the invitation letter need to be notarized?
It is not required but is recommended. A notarized letter shows the consulate that you are serious and that the letter is authentic.
What if the applicant doesn't speak English?
The consulate interview is conducted in Vietnamese by Vietnamese-speaking officers. The applicant does not need to speak English.
