What documents do I need to invite someone to the UK?

14 May 2024, 01 mins ago

Preparing for a loved one’s visit to the UK involves careful attention to documentation. Whether it is a friend, family member, or someone special, understanding what is required can streamline the process and increase the likelihood of a successful visa application.

Imagine you are a British citizen anticipating the arrival of your cousin from Nepal. In this scenario, your cousin will need to apply for a visit visa and present a comprehensive array of documents to meet the necessary criteria.

In order to enhance your cousin’s application, it is recommended that you provide an invitation letter addressed to UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI). This letter will serve as a personal endorsement, and it should detail the planned duration of their stay, their living arrangements back home, and whether they will be staying with you during their visit.

For added assurance, it is advised to enclose with the invitation letter a photocopy of the inviter’s current passport. Additionally, if your cousin plans to stay with you, providing proof of your address, such as a utility bill, can add further credibility to their visa application.

The goal is to reassure the caseworker who will be processing your cousin’s visa application that they are a genuine visitor. Therefore, an invitation letter should complement the supporting evidence furnished within the application.

Whilst not obligatory, providing an invitation letter and supplementary documentation can strengthen a visa application. However, it will not guarantee its success, which primarily depends on meeting the requirements established for this specific visa type.

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on XFacebookInstagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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