what is a cover letter for visa application

Schengen Visa Application Cover Letter – Sample Letter for Schengen Tourist Visa

The cover letter you must submit for your Schengen Visa application is an important document that states the reason you are traveling to a certain Schengen country. In your Schengen Visa Application Cover Letter, you must address the Embassy or Consulate of the destination country you plan to visit, as your main goal is to persuade the Consular staff that you are a suitable candidate for receiving the Schengen visa.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Schengen Tourist Visa?

Your Schengen tourist visa application cover letter should include the information listed below:

• Your full name.
• Your date of birth.
• Your nationality.
• Your passport details (passport number, issue date, and expiry date).
• Your current address.
• Your email address.
• Your phone number.
• The date when you are writing the letter.
• The name of the embassy or consulate where you are applying for the Schengen visa.
• The embassy or consulate’s address.
• The intention of traveling with a Schengen Tourist Visa (e.g., tourism, sightseeing, visiting friends or family, attending an event, etc.).
• The entry and exit dates of your trip.
• A detailed itinerary of your trip, including the Schengen countries you plan to visit during your trip, information about your planned accommodations, flights, and any tours or activities you have booked.
• Your financial capacity to cover your trip expenses.

Tourist Visa Application Cover Letter Sample

• Immigration

Sample Cover Letters for Schengen Visa Application

Applying for a Schengen visa involves various documents, one of which is the cover letter. This letter plays a crucial role as it presents your purpose for visiting, explains your itinerary, and communicates directly to the consulate. Here’s a detailed guide on how to craft a compelling cover letter for your Schengen visa application.

How to Write a Decent Cover Letter for Schengen Visa Application

Step 1: Start With Basic Formatting

Firstly, your cover letter needs to have a professional layout:

• Header : Include your contact information at the top right corner and the date. Below that, write the contact information of the embassy or consulate.
• Salutation : Always start with “Dear Sir/Madam,” or if you know the name of the consul, you can address them directly.

Step 2: Introduction

Begin your letter by stating your intent:

• Introduce yourself, mention your nationality, and briefly state your reason for applying for a Schengen visa.
• Specify the type of visa you are applying for (tourism, business, medical, etc.).

Step 3: State the Purpose of Your Visit

This part should detail why you want to visit the Schengen area:

• If it’s for tourism, highlight some attractions or events you plan to attend.
• For business, mention your business contacts and the essence of your visit.
• If it’s a medical visit, briefly state the medical reason without going into too much detail.

Step 4: Provide Your Travel Itinerary

Giving a clear itinerary offers the consulate clarity on your plans:

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• Include your arrival and departure dates.
• List the places you intend to visit, along with accommodation arrangements.
• For a multi-country visit, highlight the main destination and other countries on your itinerary.

Step 5: Explain Your Ties to Your Home Country

Consulates need to ensure that you will return to your home country after the visit:

• Mention your employment status, job title, employer details, and the length of your employment.
• If applicable, mention your family ties, property, or other significant commitments in your home country.

Step 6: Detail Your Financial Means

Prove that you can financially sustain yourself during your stay:

• State your annual income or provide evidence of savings.
• If someone else is sponsoring your trip, mention their name and your relationship with them and attach proof of sponsorship.

Step 7: Closing Statement

Reaffirm the purpose of your visit and express your hope for a positive response:

• Summarize the reasons why you should be granted a visa.
• Politely request for your application to be accepted, ensuring you sound polite and respectful.

Step 8: Attach Supporting Documents

List the documents you are attaching with your application:

• Passport copies, bank statements, travel insurance , flight itinerary, hotel bookings, invitation letters, etc., should be noted.

Step 9: Sign off Formally

Use a formal closing such as “Best regards” or “Sincerely,” followed by your full name. If you are sending a hard copy, make sure to sign above your typed name.

Additional Tips:

• Clarity and Conciseness : Keep your language clear and concise. Avoid overly complex sentences.
• Customization : Tailor your cover letter to reflect your specific situation. Avoid generic phrases that make your letter sound impersonal.
• Proofreading : Always check for grammatical errors or typos. A well-written letter makes a better impression.

Sample Cover Letter for Tourist Schengen Visa

Subject: Application for Schengen Visa for Tourism Purposes

Chennai, India March 24, 2023

Embassy of Spain 12, Prithviraj Road Chennai, India

Dear Consular Officer,

I, Priya Singh, a permanent resident of Chennai, India holding passport number P3456789, am writing to request a Schengen Visa to visit Spain for tourism purposes. My planned travel dates are from July 10, 2023, to July 25, 2023.

My visit’s primary purpose is to explore the rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty of Spain, visiting prominent locations like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. I am particularly interested in exploring the Prado Museum, experiencing a flamenco dance show, and indulging in the local cuisine.

I am currently employed at Tech Innovations Pvt. Ltd., where I work as a Project Coordinator. I’ve arranged my travel and accommodation details, ensuring I have a structured travel itinerary during my stay. My return to India will follow the completion of my journey on July 25, 2023, as per the travel plan.

Attached herewith are the supporting documents including my employment verification , hotel bookings, flight tickets, travel insurance, and bank statements as proof of my financial sufficiency.

Thank you very much for considering my application. I am looking forward to a favorable response. Should you need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Warm regards,

Priya Singh [Full address in India] [Contact Information]

Sample Cover Letter for Business Schengen Visa

Subject: Schengen Visa Application for Business Trip

Bangalore, India March 24, 2023

Embassy of Germany 45 MG Road Bangalore, India

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am Rajesh Kumar, writing on behalf of my employer, Future Enterprises Pvt. Ltd., based in Bangalore, India, to request a Business Schengen Visa for myself. My passport number is A98765432.

The purpose of my visit is to attend business meetings and workshops with our business partner, Green Tech Innovations, located in Frankfurt, Germany, scheduled from April 15, 2023, to April 22, 2023. These meetings are crucial for the upcoming joint venture that we are due to sign, which will significantly benefit both companies involved.

During my stay, I will be accommodated at Hilton City Hotel in Frankfurt, and all my expenses will be borne by Future Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. as per our corporate travel policy.

Enclosed are all pertinent documents, including my itinerary, invitation letter from Green Tech Innovations, company support letter, proof of financial means, hotel reservation, and round-trip flight bookings.

I kindly request a prompt processing of my visa application. Please contact me should you require more information.

Rajesh Kumar [Full address in India] [Contact Information]

Sample Cover Letter for Medical Treatment Schengen Visa

Subject: Application for Schengen Medical Treatment Visa

Mumbai, India March 24, 2023

Consulate of Italy 30, Altamount Road Mumbai – 400026

My name is Aarti Malhotra, and I am writing to apply for a Medical Treatment Visa for Italy. I am a legal resident of Mumbai, India, and hold passport number M1234567.

Based on medical advice, I need to undergo a specialized medical procedure at the Santa Maria Hospital in Rome, Italy. The treatment is scheduled from August 10, 2023, to August 30, 2023, and is necessary due to a condition that cannot be adequately treated in India.

Enclosed herewith are my medical reports, a letter from my doctor in India, and the formal invitation from Santa Maria Hospital. Also attached are my travel arrangements, accommodation confirmation in Rome, and proof of financial means to support my medical and living expenses during my stay.

I trust that you will find everything in order. I appreciate your prompt and favorable consideration of my visa application to enable me to receive the necessary medical treatment.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Best regards,

Aarti Malhotra [Full address in India] [Contact Information]

These cover letters provide a guideline on how to structure a Schengen visa application for tourism, business, and medical reasons respectively. Each letter is adjusted to reflect specific backstories and purposes as per visa type while retaining the professionalism and detail required.

Writing a detailed and clear cover letter can significantly influence the decision on your Schengen visa application. It’s your opportunity to connect with the consulate officials, make a good first impression, and provide a structured overview of your travel plans and intentions. Follow these steps meticulously, and you enhance your chances of visa approval, leading to an enjoyable trip to the Schengen area .

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Cover letter and visa or immigration application: what you need to know

• Published on 17/10/2023
• Modification: 10/17/2023
• Add a comment

When applying for a visa or immigration status, a cover letter is used to explain your intentions and qualifications in a structured and focused way. It can take a variety of forms, including letters of explanation the reasons for visit and submission letters each tailored to specific aspects of the request. The letter must be consistent with the information provided in the application forms, such as the purpose of the trip, dates and availability of funds. Immigration officers use these letters to assess your application thoroughly. There are recommended practices for writing an effective letter, such as checking spelling and grammar, highlighting key points and maintaining a flowing structure. In addition, a submission letter written by an accredited professional, which includes references to relevant case law, can greatly improve the chances of the application being approved.

The added value of a well-written Cover Letter in the visa or immigration application process

Visit letter of motivation often overlooked in the visa or immigration application process, can actually be a decisive factor in the success of your application. A well-written cover letter doesn't just reiterate information already provided in forms and supporting documents; it gives that information a face and a voice, providing context and connecting the dots between your past, present and future intentions.

A persuasive tool

Firstly, a cover letter acts as a persuasive tool. It gives you the opportunity to present a coherent argument about why you should qualify for the visa or status you're applying for. You can explain things that aren't immediately obvious on standardized forms, such as the reasons behind certain career or life decisions that may have an impact on your application.

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Credibility and consistency

Secondly, the letter adds credibility and consistency to your file. Immigration officers look for clues to assess your reliability and integrity. A polished, well-organized and truthful cover letter enhances your credibility and can balance out weaker aspects of your application.

Enhance your profile

Third, the cover letter allows you to expand on your profile . While official forms and documents offer a "black and white" view of your situation, the cover letter provides the nuances, colors and context that make your profile unique. This is particularly useful in complex cases where further explanation is required, such as minor criminal records, gaps in employment or education, or previously refused visas.

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Ability to bypass obstacles

Fourthly, a well-informed letter can help you anticipate and circumvent potential obstacles to the approval of your application. For example, if you've already had a visa refused, a cover letter is the ideal place to explain what has changed since then and why that decision should be re-evaluated.

What is a cover letter in the context of an immigration or visa application?

A covering letter, also known as a cover letter or submission letter in some cases, is a document that complements your visa or immigration application. It provides a broader context to the information provided in the official forms, and offers an opportunity to present yourself in a more personal way to the relevant authorities. This letter can be an opportunity to detail specific aspects of your situation that are not covered in the standard forms.

Depending on the country and the type of visa, this letter can take several names:

• Cover Letter Used mainly in the United States, this term refers to a letter that generally accompanies any type of application, whether for a student, work or tourist visa.
• Letter of Explanation : Frequently used in Canada, this type of letter explains the reasons and circumstances surrounding your application, and is often required for temporary residence visas, study permits or work permits.
• Personal Statement or Cover Letter : In the UK, we often refer to a "Personal Statement" for student visas and a "Cover Letter" for work visas.
• Statement of Purpose This term is mainly used in Australia for student or skilled worker visas.
• Letter of Motivation In the Schengen area, this letter is generally required for short-stay, student or work visas.
• Carta de Motivação In Portugal, this is the Portuguese version of the cover letter, often required for work and residence visas.
• Erklärungsschreiben : In Germany, this letter is used to explain the reasons behind a visa application, whether for a work, student or tourist visa.
• Carta de Intención Used in Spanish-speaking countries, this term is similar to the cover letter and generally accompanies applications for student or work visas.
• Lettera di Motivazione In Italy, this letter is generally required for student and work visa applications.
• Intensjonsbrev In Norway, this letter usually accompanies applications for work or residence visas.
• Motivációs levél In Hungary, this letter is commonly used for student visa applications.
• Motivaciono Pismo In Balkan countries such as Serbia, Croatia and Bosnia, this type of letter often accompanies applications for student or work visas.
• Kirjeen Selitys In Finland, this term is used for letters explaining the reasons for applying for a visa or residence permit.
• Dinləmə Məktubu In Azerbaijan, this type of letter is usually required for student or work visa applications.
• प्रयोजन पत्र (Prayojan Patra): In India, this letter is often used for student or business visas.
• 履歴書付きカバーレター (Rirekisho-tsuki kabāretā) : In Japan, this expression refers to a cover letter that is attached to a CV for work visa applications.

List of countries, official letter names and application contexts

What's the difference between a cover letter and a letter of intent?

The ambiguity between cover letter and letter of intent is quite common, especially when it comes to immigration formalities or visa applications. So what's the fundamental difference between the two?

• Objective :
• Letter of motivation The purpose of the application is to complete a visa or immigration application by explaining why the applicant is the best choice for visa approval. It is generally more focused on "selling" yourself, your skills and your intentions.
• Letter of intent This letter is most often used in an academic or professional context. It describes your intention to embark on a certain course of action, such as pursuing a specific program of study or accepting a job offer.
• Recipient :
• Letter of motivation It is usually addressed to the immigration authorities or consulate of the country where you are applying for a visa.
• Letter of intent : It is often addressed to an academic institution, employer or other organization, rather than to the immigration authorities.
• Letter of motivation It generally covers your qualifications, experience, future plans in the host country, and how you plan to comply with immigration rules and regulations.
• Letter of intent : It can cover similar topics but in a different context, for example, why you're interested in a specific academic program and how you plan to contribute to it.
• Letter of motivation It is specific to the visa or immigration application.
• Letter of intent It's more versatile and can be used in a variety of scenarios, including, but not limited to, school admissions, job offers, or business partnerships.
• Letter of motivation She often focuses on practical details such as financial arrangements, travel dates, and other elements that could influence the visa decision.
• Letter of intent It's often broader in scope, and can even be a little more conceptual or philosophical in its approach, focusing on issues such as compatibility of values or long-term goals.

Although both types of letter share certain similarities, their purpose, target audience and content can differ significantly. That's why it's important to understand the requirements of each situation when choosing the right type of letter to write.

Difference between the cover letter and the letter of appeal against a visa refusal

The cover letter and the letter of appeal against a visa refusal are two distinct tools in the immigration process. While the former accompanies the initial visa application, highlighting the applicant's qualities and intentions, the latter is used after a refusal to contest the decision taken. Each is addressed to a specific audience and requires a different approach to writing. The choice of tone and content strongly depends on the purpose of the letter. To better understand these nuances, I invite you to read my other article on this subject: Appeal against Schengen visa refusal . And if you're wondering what are the most common causes of Schengen visa refusals and how to avoid them, don't miss my article : What are the reasons for Schengen visa refusal and how can they be avoided? .

Here are some of the differences between these two types of letter:

• Letter of motivation Visa application form: Its main purpose is to accompany an initial visa application. It aims to provide additional information about the applicant, including the reasons why he or she wishes to enter the country, and why the application should be approved.
• Letter of appeal against a refusal of Visa: This letter is written after a visa application has been refused. Its purpose is to contest the decision, providing additional explanations and evidence that may not have been taken into account initially.
• Letter of motivation : Generally addressed to the immigration authorities or consulate.
• Letter of Appeal against a Visa Refusal Directly to the authority that refused the application, which may be a visa office, consulate or other immigration authority.
• Letter of motivation The application is submitted at the same time as the initial visa application.
• Letter of Appeal against a Visa Refusal : It is submitted after receiving notification of refusal.
• Letter of motivation The interview: Focuses on the applicant's qualifications, reasons for travel and future plans. It may also cover such points as the applicant's financial means.
• Letter of Appeal against a Visa Refusal Focus on areas of ambiguity or error in the initial decision process. It presents arguments and evidence to challenge the refusal, such as additional documents or clarifications.
• Letter of motivation More optimistic, tries to "sell" the candidate as a good choice for visa approval.
• Letter of Appeal against a Visa Refusal More formal and argumentative, as it is used to challenge an official decision.

Differences between a submission letter and a cover letter

Like a cover letter, a submission letter plays a crucial role in the visa or immigration application process. However, there are some notable differences between the two. Here are a few key points to distinguish them:

• Letter of motivation It is usually written by the applicant himself.
• Submission Letter It is often drafted by a certified professional or a consulting firm. immigration .
• Letter of motivation The applicant may not be familiar with the laws of the case or legal details.
• Submission Letter The professional who drafts it knows the laws of specific cases that could be applied to increase the chances of the application being approved.
• Letter of motivation : Often required for first-time visa applications.
• Submission Letter : Particularly useful in the event of a previous visa refusal or in complex situations requiring a legal explanation.
• Letter of motivation Can be considered as a complement to the file.
• Submission Letter : Often has a more significant impact due to its specialized content, especially if it is written by a competent professional.
• Letter of motivation Focus on the applicant's profile and intentions.
• Submission Letter Highlights legal aspects, case law and precedents that may support the application.

While a cover letter offers an overview of your situation and intentions, a submission letter goes further, incorporating legal aspects and case laws to strengthen your application. It's often most effective when written by a professional familiar with the complexities of the immigration system.

Elements to include in your cover letter (in general)

It is essential to organize your cover letter logically and coherently to make it easier for the immigration officer to read and understand. A well-structured and complete cover letter is more likely to leave a positive impression and can increase your chances of obtaining a visa. Here are the key elements to include:

Introduction

This is where you should briefly introduce yourself and indicate the type of visa or immigration status you are applying for. Your introduction should be concise and to the point, setting the scene for the information that follows.

Purpose of visit

In this section, you'll explain why you want to enter the country. Whether it's for study, work or a family visit, it's important to be as specific as possible.

Financial fund

Provide details on how you plan to finance your stay . This can include information on savings, scholarships or financial support from a sponsor. Be sure to provide evidence to back up your claims, such as bank statements or letters of support.

Travel dates

Clearly indicate your planned travel dates. This includes the date on which you plan to enter and leave the country. Make sure these dates are consistent with the information provided in your application forms.

Suitability for application forms

This is an often overlooked but important aspect. Make sure that all the information in your cover letter is consistent with that provided in the application forms. Any inconsistencies can be a red flag for immigration officers.

Especially in the case of study permit applications, you may need to include information about your academic or professional background. Transcripts, letters of recommendation or certificates may be useful here.

Other supporting evidence

Depending on your case, it may be a good idea to include other elements that strengthen your application. This could be job prospects in your home country after your return, family ties, or medical reasons for the visit.

End your letter by summarizing the key points and expressing why you should be considered for the visa. You may also want to include a sentence or two thanking the immigration officer for his or her time and attention.

A well-written cover letter can really set your application apart from those of other applicants. Take the time to organize it carefully, proofread it and make adjustments where necessary. It could well be the most worthwhile investment in your visa application process.

Tips for writing a cover letter

The quality of your cover letter can be a decisive factor in obtaining a visa or immigration status. So how can you maximize your chances of success? Here are a few tips on how to write a good cover letter:

• Don't write a long essay. Your letter should be detailed enough to convey the essential information, but short enough to be easily read.
• Start with a brief introduction, followed by the purpose of your trip and related details. End with a solid conclusion. The aim is to guide the reader through your argument in a fluid and logical way.
• Spelling and grammatical errors can give the impression of carelessness. Use a spell-checker, but don't rely on it completely. Reread your letter several times and, if possible, have someone else read it for you.
• Use formatting techniques such as bolding or underlining to highlight the most important information. This makes it easier for the reviewer to get your message across.
• Use formal and courteous language. Avoid jargon and abbreviations that may not be understood by the examiner.
• If you mention facts that support your application, such as professional qualifications or employment opportunities in your home country, consider attaching supporting documents.
• Make sure that all the information in the letter matches that on your application forms to avoid any confusion or suspicion.
• Although it may be tempting to use a template, a personalized letter is always more effective. Adapt your letter to the type of visa you are applying for and the specific requirements of the country concerned.
• End the letter by encouraging the reviewer to contact you for further information and expressing your gratitude for their time and consideration.

Common mistakes to avoid

A cover letter for a visa application is a delicate document that requires special attention. A single mistake can be detrimental and considerably reduce your chances of obtaining a visa. Here's a list of common mistakes you should absolutely avoid:

Inaccurate or contradictory information

Any inconsistencies between the information provided in the cover letter and that in the application forms or other documents may cast doubt on the credibility of your application. Make sure the details are consistent and accurate.

Grammatical and spelling errors

Poor grammar or spelling mistakes can not only make your letter difficult to understand, but also project a careless image on your part.

Excessive length

A letter that's too long can lose the reader's attention. Try to keep it to one page, or even two if you have a lot of relevant information to include.

Important omissions

Don't forget to include crucial information such as your financial background, travel dates and the purpose of your visit. Failure to do so may result in rejection of your application.

Inappropriate tone

Keep your tone professional and respectful throughout the letter. Avoid jargon or overly informal language, as this could be perceived as a lack of seriousness.

Neglecting supporting documents

If you mention sources of financing, qualifications or other important aspects, be sure to provide the appropriate supporting documents to back up your statements.

Repetition and redundancy

Avoid repeating the same points or using redundant language. Every sentence should add something new and useful to your application.

Lack of structure

A poorly structured cover letter can be difficult to follow and understand. Make sure you follow a clear outline, using subheadings and bulleted lists to improve readability.

No conclusion

Don't end your letter abruptly. A concise but effective conclusion summarizing your strengths and thanking the reader can leave a positive impression.

Frequently asked questions

Should i write my letter in english.

This depends on the country you are applying to. If English is the official language, it's best to write the letter in English.

Should the letter be handwritten or typed?

Most countries prefer a typed letter for greater clarity and professionalism.

How long should my letter be?

In general, aim for one to two pages. Too long might mean you can't concentrate on the important points.

Should I talk about my intention to return to my country of origin?

It depends on the type of visa or immigration application. If it's a time-limited visa, clearly stating your intention to return can reassure immigration officials.

Do I have to give my address and that of the recipient?

Yes, this is part of the standard formalities of an official letter.

Do I have to sign the letter?

Yes, a handwritten signature is often required to authenticate the letter.

Can I use an online template?

It's okay to use a template, but be sure to personalize the letter to suit your situation.

Can I write the letter myself or do I need to call in a professional?

It's perfectly possible to write the letter yourself, but if your situation is complex, professional advice may be beneficial.

Do I need to have my supporting documents translated?

Yes, if these documents are not in the language of the country where you are applying, a certified translation is often required.

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SAMPLE COVER LETTERS for VISA APPLICATION: Korea, Schengen, Australia

Employment certificate, financial documents, and income tax return (ITR) are the staples of most visa applications. But there is one document that is usually overlooked — the cover letter.

A cover letter isn’t always a requirement when applying for a visa. However, it’s something that we often recommend to add to your pile of documents, especially if there is no interview and you have some explaining to do.

You see, sometimes, things don’t always fit the mold perfectly. There are cases wherein you can’t provide the exact document needed, but you have a very good alternative. Or maybe you just can’t provide something at all, but you have a perfectly valid reason. Or perhaps you’re traveling with a group or for a special purpose. These instances could probably benefit from a well-crafted explanation to give the visa officer a clearer picture of your situation.

When I apply for a visa, I usually submit a cover letter regardless of whether or not it’s one of the requirements. I always want to give a summary of my application and clarify some aspects that may be prone to misinterpretation.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

What should be in a cover letter?

For me, a good cover letter must be able to provide the following:

• A short introduction about yourself.
• Your travel dates and the purpose of your trip
• If traveling with a group: your companions and your relationship with them
• If sponsored: your sponsor’s name, your relationship with them, and the reason why they are willing to sponsor you
• If you’re missing some requirements: the reason why you won’t be able to provide them and the alternatives you are submitting instead
• If applying for a double entry or multiple entry visa: the reason why you need to be allowed more than one entry
• A quick rundown of the destinations you will be visiting
• A quick summary of your travel history (if any), highlighting that you have NEVER violated visa rules in the past
• A promise to return to your home country in time

Looks like a lot, huh? But here’s the thing: According to a couple of friends who used to work as visa officers at strict embassies, they usually had very little time to assess each application. Hence, if you’re going to make a cover letter, go straight to the point . One page should be enough. The key is being concise — finding the balance between giving enough information and keeping it short and sweet.

Here are some samples. I intentionally used complicated situations to give you an idea how I usually explain them. If they don’t apply to you, feel free to modify these to match your case. Please use this only as a model for your own cover letter. Please do not copy-paste the whole thing without adjustments.

Sample Cover Letter for Australian Visa (Online Application)

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Sample Cover Letter for Schengen Visa

✅ DOWNLOAD THIS HERE!

Sample Cover Letter for Korean Visa

2020 • 1 • 7

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where to attach cover letter for Australia Visa application?

In my case, I uploaded it under Evidence of Planned Tourism Activities > Others.

Hello, I will be applying for a Japan visa and will submit a cover letter din. I have a few questions:

• If I am traveling with friends pero we will be submitting individual applications, do I need to include that in the cover letter na I am with them on this trip?
• Do you need to submit all your savings account o kahit isa nalang?
• Plan ko rin sana (dahil nabasa ko sa ibang posts nyo hehe) na payroll and savings account ipasa, pero kung nililipat ko rin naman yung laman ng payroll sa savings, need ko pa ba isubmit yung payroll account?
• Sa ibang Japan visa application na napanuod ko, nagsusubmit sila ng bank certificate at bank statement. Do I need to do that?
• If yes, need ko ba explain sa cover letter ko na tinatransfer ko sa digital bank muna yung pera saka ko tinatransfer sa savings account? (kasi baka makita, if may bank statement, na nanggaling sa ganitong account yung pumasok na pera)

sorry habang nagtatype ako nadadagdagan questions ko haha. sana masagot parin. Thank you sa travel guides. Super helpful. :)

This is for Japan ha.

1. You may indicate your companions. Ako I prefer na imention sila to show na travel with friends talaga.

2. OK lang kahit isa lang kung sa tingin mo strong enough ung account na yun. Pwede ring madami if feeling mo di enough ung isa lang.

3. Naeempty ba ung payroll account when u transfer?

4. Bank cert lang naman ang need ng Japan so kahit walang statement, ok lang.

5. If hindi ka magsusubmit ng statement, di na need iexplain kasi hindi lalabas. :)

I plan to visit Canada and have started my visa application. I selected visit friend for purpose instead of tourism as I would like to be fully honest with my application. My very purpose is to be with my boyfriend and meet his family and friends. Touring comes as a bonus. Would it be fine to add captions or narrations on the pdf document together with our pictures as proof? I also have our hotel and tour bookings and his boarding passes on the two times that he has visited me here in PH. This is the Proof of Relationship section on the application visa.

Hello. Any recommendations for Schengen visa assistance agencies?

Try Gazelle Travel and Tours around Ortigas or Constellation Travel in Makati.

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Visa Application Cover Letter Tips

Creating the perfect Visa application cover letter can be a daunting task. A well-prepared Cover Letter for a Visa application can significantly enhance your chances of success. This guide offers insights into creating the perfect cover letter for your visa application, focusing on essential components like itinerary planning and presenting a compelling case to visa officers.

Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter

What information to include in a cover letter, what makes a perfect cover letter, documents required to include with cover letter for visa application, cover letter for visa application format tips, sample cover letter for schengen tourist visa, sample cover letter for business schengen visa, some additional tips to consider, congratulations, you've created the perfect visa cover letter and visa application, now what.

So what makes a good cover letter? It doesn't depend only upon your words, it's the way they speak. Find out the best tips for creating an outstanding cover letter. The consulate personnel read many of these stories and you have to feel you have come from real-life people. Tell me the reason behind your trip. Maybe the trip to the Louvre is something you've dreamt of forever. This personalized touch makes the letters you write memorable.

Creating the perfect cover letter for a visa application involves more than compiling your details and listing where you are going. It's about creating a story that outlines your travel intentions clearly and convincingly. Keep your letter concise and only include necessary information, if possible, keep your letter to one page.

The cover letter must describe your entire visit and include:  

Personal Cover Letter

Begin with your name, current address, phone number, passport number, email address, and other relevant personal information. Ensure that all the information aligns with the rest of your visa application documents.  

Travel Itinerary

Detail your travel itinerary, including dates, destinations, and the purpose of each portion of your trip. If you have a long layover, indicate what you'll do. A well-structured and planned travel itinerary for a visa application demonstrates your intentions and plans for the journey. Provide as much detail as possible about your intended itinerary and mention that plans are subject to confirmation.

Purpose of Visit

This is the most important section. You need to be clear and articulate the reason for your trip. Whether it's for tourism, business, or visiting family, make sure this is clearly stated and aligns with the type of visa you're applying for. Be detailed, but do not delve into too many mundane details.  

Financial Means and Stability

Another crucial area to cover is proving that you are in good financial standing and there is no risk you'll run out of money during the trip. Include bank statements that show sufficient funds, employment details, income tax returns (or tax payment slips), or sponsor information. These documents show the immigration officers that you can sustain yourself during the visit.  

Ties to Home Country

Highlight factors like family, employment, or property ownership that indicate your intention to return home after your visit. Unless you are emigrating, you need to dispel any doubt from the reviewers' minds that your intentions are anything other than what you stated in your application cover letter.  

The perfect cover letter for a visa application is a crucial component of your travel documentation. It's important to present a clear, concise, and compelling narrative of your travel plans, financial stability, and strong ties to your home country. By incorporating these elements and best practices, you can enhance your visa application, making it more likely to be viewed favorably by the visa officers.

However, your visa application cover letter is just one aspect of the overall visa application package; the same care and attention should be applied to the various components of the application package, such as proof of funds, flight and hotel itineraries, properly completed forms, and any other documents that pertain to your trip. Providing a well-crafted and thought-out application will set the stage for a successful application and an exciting travel experience ahead!

Remember to write in the English language.

The specific details will vary for visa applications from country to country but the general documents required to accompany a visa application cover letter are:

Passport A valid passport with sufficient blank pages for visa stamps and valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

Photographs Passport-sized photographs that meet the specific requirements, including background color, size, and other criteria.

Flight Itinerary A flight itinerary that shows your travel dates, airlines, and flight numbers. This can be a dummy itinerary. We do not recommend purchasing a full-fare ticket before your visa being approved, the flight and hotel itineraries that we provide are more than sufficient.

Accommodation Confirmation Proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations or a letter from a host if staying with friends or family.

Financial Documents Evidence of financial means to support your trip, typically in the form of bank statements, pay stubs, or an employment letter confirming your salary.

Travel Insurance Proof of travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other risks during your stay.

Employment Verification A letter from your employer confirming your position, salary, approved leave dates, and the purpose of your trip (if applicable).

Invitation Letter An invitation letter from a host or organization if visiting friends, family, or attending a business event.

Supporting Documents for the Purpose of Travel Depending on the type of visa, you may need additional documents to support your purpose of travel. For example:

Tourist Visa : A detailed travel itinerary, including planned activities and places to visit.

Business Visa : An invitation letter from a business partner, meeting schedule, or conference details.

Student Visa : Proof of enrollment, acceptance letter from the educational institution, and financial support documents.

Proof of Ties to Home Country Documents that demonstrate your intention to return to your home country, such as property ownership, family ties, or employment contracts.

Previous Visas (if applicable) Copies of previous visas and travel stamps that demonstrate your travel history.

Paper : A cover letter must be written exclusively in English on A4-sized paper (if not sent electronically). You must include copies of the documents in the visa application form and it is best to paper-clip everything together.

Date : The date should be written out in the long form of [Month - Text] [Day - Numerical], [Year - Numerical] for example April 24, 2024.

Embassy Address : Include the embassy information and address and ensure the address is localized to the spelling and language as dominant in that country.

Salutation : Address the embassy/consulate using "Dear Mr." Purpose of Travel: Make a clear statement about your travel plans. You can do this for a variety of reasons. Travel to a country around the world.

Below you'll find a Schengen tourist visa application sample cover letter that you can use on your next trip:

Jane Smith 789 Oak Avenue City, State, ZIP Code [email protected] (987) 654-3210

April 23, 2024

Consulate General of France 123 Embassy Boulevard City, State, ZIP Code

Subject: Application for Tourist Visa to France

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to apply for a tourist visa to visit Paris, France, from May 10 to May 20, 2024. The purpose of my trip is to explore the famous landmarks and cultural attractions in Paris.

During my visit, I plan to see key sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe. Additionally, I look forward to experiencing the city's unique neighborhoods, such as Montmartre and the Latin Quarter.

I have arranged accommodation at the "Parisian Inn," located at 123 Rue de l'Hôtel, Paris, for the entire duration of my stay. Here is my flight itinerary:

Departure : Air France, Flight AF1234, departing from JFK Airport on May 10, 2024, at 10:00 AM

Return : Delta Airlines, Flight DL5678, departing from Charles de Gaulle Airport on May 20, 2024, at 3:00 PM

I am employed by Acme Corporation, where I work as a Marketing Manager. My employer has granted me leave for the specified dates, and I have included an employment verification letter confirming this. Additionally, I have purchased travel insurance from SafeTravel Insurance, which covers medical emergencies and other incidents during my stay in France.

Enclosed with this letter, you will find my completed visa application form, passport, flight itinerary, hotel reservation confirmation, employment verification letter, sponsorship letter (if applicable), travel insurance, and recent bank statements demonstrating my financial capacity to cover my travel expenses.

I assure you that I have no intention of overstaying my visa. I have strong ties to my home country, including my family, job, and property, and I look forward to returning home after my trip to Paris.

Thank you for your time and consideration. If you need additional information, please feel free to contact me at (987) 654-3210 or [email protected] .

[Signature (if sending a physical copy)] Jane Smith

Below you'll find a Schengen business visa application sample cover letter that you can use on your next business trip when visiting a Schengen country:

John Doe 123 Elm Street City, State, ZIP Code [email protected] (123) 456-7890

Subject: Application for Business Visa to France

I am writing to apply for a business visa to visit Paris, France, from May 5 to May 12, 2024. The purpose of my trip is to attend meetings and a business conference with clients and colleagues in Paris.

During my visit, I will be attending the "Annual Tech Summit" at the Palais des Congrès. Additionally, I will meet with business partners from XYZ Corporation to discuss ongoing projects and future collaborations.

I have made arrangements to stay at the "Hotel Parisian Business," located at 789 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris. My flight itinerary is as follows:

Departure : Air France, Flight AF4321, departing from JFK Airport on May 5, 2024, at 2:00 PM

Return : Delta Airlines, Flight DL9876, departing from Charles de Gaulle Airport on May 12, 2024, at 6:00 PM

I am employed by Acme Corporation, where I work as a Senior Project Manager. My employer has approved my business trip, and I have attached an employment verification letter confirming my position, the purpose of my trip, and that my expenses will be covered by the company. I have also purchased travel insurance from SafeTravel Insurance to cover any medical or travel-related incidents during my stay in France.

I have no intention of overstaying my visa, as I have strong ties to my home country, including my job, family, and property. I look forward to returning home after my business trip to Paris.

Enclosed with this letter, please find my completed visa application form, passport, flight itinerary, hotel reservation confirmation, employer's letter, travel insurance, and other supporting documents.

Thank you for considering my application. If you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact me at (123) 456-7890 or [email protected] .

[Signature (if sending a physical copy)] John Doe

Customization is King:  It's important to write a good cover letter that is tailored specifically to your trip and the visa requirements of the country, rather than using a generic template and replacing the details. 

Honesty and Transparency:  It is crucial to provide precise and honest information when applying for a visa. Any form of misrepresentation could result in the rejection of the visa application. Please make sure that all information provided is accurate and up-to-date to avoid any complications during the application process.

Professional Tone and Structure:  When writing to an embassy or consulate, it is important to use a formal tone and follow a professional letter format, including addressing it to the appropriate recipient.  

Emphasize Your Return Plan:  When applying for a visa, demonstrate your intent to return to your home country by providing evidence of your ties. 

Attention to Detail:  Proofread your letter for errors. A well-written, error-free cover letter reflects your seriousness about the application. Ensure all of your travel itinerary details align with your supporting documents and flight information. 

Double-check Everything : Ensure all the necessary documents are included with your visa application.

Take a deep breath and pat yourself on the back, however, you're not done just yet. Depending on the visa process, submit your application in the required manner:

In-Person : If submitting in person at an embassy or consulate, schedule an appointment if required, and bring all your documents. Be prepared for a possible interview and arrive on time.

Online : If submitting online, follow the instructions for uploading documents and paying the visa fee. Ensure you receive confirmation of submission.

Via Visa Application Center : If using a visa application center, follow their specific process for document submission and fee payment.

Pay the Visa Fee

Ensure you have the correct payment method and pay the visa fee. Keep a receipt or proof of payment for your records.

Attend the Visa Interview (if required)

If a visa interview is part of the process, prepare by reviewing your cover letter and other documents. Be ready to answer questions about your travel plans, financial status, and intentions to return to your home country.

Track Your Application

After submitting your application, track its progress through the system used by the embassy, consulate, or visa application center. This helps you stay informed about the status and expected processing times.

Prepare for Travel

While waiting for visa approval, make final travel preparations, such as packing, confirming accommodation, and arranging transportation. If your visa is approved, be sure to review the visa details for accuracy, including the validity period and number of entries.

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Covering Letter For Visa: What it is and how you can make one

A cover letter for visa application or a personal covering letter for visa is an important document wherein the traveller states their purpose for travel along with other relevant details. The cover letter could be for business visa application or a covering letter for tourist visa; in any case, this is written to the Embassy to ensure that you have permission to enter the member state or states.

Your cover letter for visa application is a means of communication between you and the Embassy making it necessary for your covering letter for visa to be carefully written.

Essential components of a covering letter for visa

• Your personal covering letter for visa application must state your purpose for travel.
• The cover letter for visa application must give a clear outline of how you intend to fund your travel and stay. In the case of a sponsored travel, you must name your relationship to the sponsor and their cause for sponsoring you. 
• Your covering letter for visa must contain a condensation of your itinerary, further labelling why you have applied at specific Embassy. 
• The duration of stay and intention to return to the home country must be specified as well. 
• If due to any challenge, you are unable to provide any of the above-mentioned details, you are expected to provide a written reason.

Also Read:  How to get your Schengen visa from India?

It is essential to understand whether you are writing a covering letter for tourist visa or a cover letter for business visa application, the content must be to the point. This is because this is the only method for you to establish any communication with the Embassy officials.

How do you write a visa cover letter?

To provide you with some ease, a sample cover letter for visa application has been provided. It is a sample Schengen visa application form filled, and it gives an idea about how your covering letter for visa is to be formatted and written. While the covering letter for visa is often not mentioned in the list of required documents, it is essential and must be written under all circumstances.

Remember: There is no room for error. As the acceptance of your visa application depends on details you provide in your covering letter.

Suggested Read:  10 Amazing Countries That Offer Visa On Arrival For Indians

Sample cover letter for visa application

September 27, 2019

2nd & 3rd floor, Cash Pharmacy Building Corner St Marks, 

Residency Rd, 

Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025

Subject: Name XXXXXXX, Indian Passport No: XXXXXX, Schengen Visa for Tourist Travel

Dear Sir/Madam,

I would like to apply for a Schengen visa as I wish to travel to Germany from December 14, 2019, to December 28, 2019.

The primary purpose of my travel is to visit Germany and look around the country. I wish to learn about German culture and way of life while also gaining familiarity with the neighbouring country of Switzerland. During my stay, I wish to relax and sightsee as much as the time permits me to.

I am employed at *employer name* in *employer address* since XXXX, currently in the position of XXXX. This vacation has been approved by my employer for the period mentioned above. 

Please find the following documents to support my visa application:

•  Visa application form, duly dated and signed with attached passport-size pictures
• Passport, (with previous travel experience)
• Travel Insurance
• E-ticket reservation for my flight via LH Bangalore – Frankfurt – Zurich – Bangalore [December 14 2019 – December 28, 2019] 
• Hotel reservations for my stays in Germany and Switzerland
• Employment & leave certificates showing approved leaves as well as the date I am expected to return to work
• ITR, Payslips, and Savings Account as proof of my income
• Do remember to add medical reports in relevance to any existing conditions and details about the health insurance valid in [name of country]

Planned Itinerary:

• December 14, 2019 – Flight from Bangalore to Frankfurt via *flight/airline name*
• December 16, 2019 – Travel from Frankfurt to Berlin and stay at XXX
• December 19, 2019 – Travel from Berlin to Dusseldorf and stay at XXX
• December 20, 2019 – Travel from Dusseldorf to Geneva and stay at XXX
• December 23, 2019 – Travel from Geneva to Bern and stay at XXX
• December 26, 2019 – Travel from Bern to Zurich and stay at XXX
• December 28, 2019 – Flight back to Zurich from Frankfurt via *Flight/airline name*

I hope that you will find everything in order. For any clarifications, do contact me. 

Thanking you in advance for a favourable reply to my application.

Your Complete Name

Your Address, India

Personal covering letter for visa

It is to be noted that, your personal covering letter for visa application must include the cause for travel in the subject (e.g: Business, Medical, Tourist, etc.) This will make your covering letter for visa appear to the point and concise. If you are traveling for medical purposes , you will be required to give the following documents: 

• A specific diagnosis must be shown. This diagnosis must be approved by a licensed healthcare provider. 
• The provider must also be able to give a specific duration and length of treatment. Lifelong treatments and indefinite periods will not be accepted. 
• This letter must be written by the provider to vouch for the patient and their contact details must be given as well for the clarification of any doubts.

Those travelling for business purposes must, in the same manner, provide a cover letter for business visa application written by their employer. The employer must give the cause for travel and must state the duration of travel as well. They too will be needed to provide their contact details for the clarification of any doubts. You need not worry about this procedure. It is a formality set to establish communication among the passenger. 

Note: As most Embassies operate digitally, it is near impossible to reach them personally. This makes the approval of the visa application dependent on the documents you provide.

To make this process faster, the covering letter for visa is provided. It ensures that your reason for travel is communicated to the officers without any hinderance, therefore it needs to be written convincingly.

All you need to be cautious of when writing your covering letter for visa is, be aware of the cause and gather the required approval and documents. As long as appropriate material is provided along with the cover letter, your application is unlikely to face any challenge.

If you can’t provide a complete itinerary, try to provide a rough idea about the places you intend to visit over your stay in the country. It might sound like a task, but it just makes your life simpler as you will enter the country with a plan in the case of tourism. When visiting for any other purpose, there will not be much room for adjustment and change in your plans, therefore the covering letter for visa will come with a structured itinerary.

However, do ensure that you format the letter correctly. The first paragraph after the subject must contain the details about you and your purpose for travel. The second paragraph is formatted in bullet points to provide an itinerary with the smaller details about your travel. Just like any letter is written, it must be formal and should be checked thoroughly for the minute parts.

We hope this article summed a covering letter for visa and visa applications for you. As you must have understood by now, it is not very complicated and is in fact quite simple. You need to ensure that you have the additional necessities attached when you send it. 

So, write a convincing covering letter for visa with a summary of your travel and be free of concerns about the acceptance of your application. Just ensure that you know the address of the Embassy before you send it in. That should summarize covering letters for visa applications for you.

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• Cover Letter for a Schengen Visa: Types, Format & Samples

Cover Letter for a Schengen Visa: Types, Format Samples & More

10 min read

Updated On Jan 22, 2024

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Table of Contents

What is a schengen visa cover letter, what needs to be included in cover letter schengen visa, cover letter format for schengen visa, samples of cover letter for schengen visa, state wise schengen visa cover letter requirements, documents to support schengen cover letter, where to submit your cover letter for schengen visa application, common mistakes in schengen visa cover letters, explore european beauty and opportunities: cover letter for a schengen visa.

Unlock the gateway to 27 vibrant European destinations with a Schengen visa! Whether you're an immigrant or a traveler this visa opens doors to incredible opportunities.

Navigate the application process effortlessly by mastering the art of crafting a compelling cover letter Schengen visa. Explore the essentials in our blog for a seamless visa experience!

The Cover Letter, also known as the introduction letter for a Schengen Visa is a crucial component of your application, serving as a communication tool with the visa officers.

Addressed to the Embassy or Consulate of the specific country you plan to visit, it outlines your reasons for travel and aims to persuade the consular staff of your suitability for the visa.

Even if applying through a visa application center like VFS Global, ensure your Cover Letter is directed to the relevant Embassy or Consulate.

In your Schengen Visa application cover letter, be sure to incorporate the following details regarding your trip:

• Clearly articulate the purpose motivating your visit to a Schengen country.
• Specify the exact dates for your intended entry and departure.
• Outline a well-structured itinerary detailing your planned activities throughout the Schengen area.
• Indicate your accommodation arrangements upon entering the Schengen region.
• List all the countries included in your travel plans.
• Provide information about your current employment status.
• If any mandatory documents are missing from your submission, explain their absence concisely

Drafting a cover letter is integral to the Schengen visa application process. This letter should succinctly outline your travel plans, the purpose of your visit, and your financial support strategy. Below is a brief Schengen visa cover letter template or format for your guidance

• Start with a formal salutation.
• Provide your name, address, contact details, and nationality.
• Clearly state your intention to apply for a Schengen visa.
• Introduce yourself briefly, mentioning your nationality and current residence.
• Specify the purpose of your visit (tourism, business, family visit, etc.).
• Mention the planned dates of your stay in the Schengen area.
• Outline your travel plans, including the countries you plan to visit and the duration of your stay in each.
• Explain your financial plan for supporting yourself during the visit.
• Confirm personal funding and attach supporting financial documents.
• List the attached documents supporting your application, such as flight itinerary, hotel reservations, travel insurance, etc.
• Express gratitude and formally request the approval of your Schengen visa application.
• Offer cooperation and assure compliance with regulations.
• End the letter with a formal closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Kind regards."

Let us first examine the supplied generic Schengen visa cover letter sample to acquaint yourself with the correct writing tone, format, structure, and other essential elements.

Business Schengen Visa Cover Letter Sample

When applying for a Schengen Business Visa, the responsibility of composing the Cover Letter lies with your employer. The letter must be crafted on the official letterhead of the company.

Sample Cover Letter for Schengen Visa Tourist

The Cover Letter for a Schengen Tourist Visa typically includes details about your travel plans, purpose of visit, and financial ability. It serves as a concise introduction to support your visa application.

Sample Cover Letter for Schengen Medical Treatment Visa

For a Schengen Medical Treatment Visa, your doctor must prepare the Cover Letter, including

• Detailed Diagnosis: Specify the medical condition requiring treatment in a Schengen country.
• Medical History: Provide a concise medical history for context.
• Treatment Details: Clearly state the nature and expected duration of the proposed treatment.

This letter is vital for the visa application, offering insights into the medical necessity and treatment plan.

Now that you are familiarised with the Sample cover letters for Schengen Visa, before crafting your cover letter, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of the Schengen country you plan to visit. Here are the cover letter guidelines for key Schengen member states:

• Cover Letter for Visa Application Italy
• Highlight your ties to your home country, such as family, employment, and studies.
• Clearly state the purpose of your visit, outlining planned activities and dates.
• Provide proof of funds to cover your travel expenses.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Austria
• Specify the purpose of your visit, detailing the places and activities you'll engage in.
• If applying for a multiple-entry visa, provide a valid reason.
• Assure your return to your home country after the visa period.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application France
• Present a clear itinerary with destinations, travel dates, and the purpose of your visit.
• Indicate whether you have travel insurance for unforeseen medical expenses.
• Align your visit with academic, professional, or personal goals.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Germany
• In the introduction, concisely explain the purpose of your travel (tourism, family visits, or business).
• Provide evidence of funds to cover expenses like food, accommodation, and transportation.
• List all intended destinations you plan to visit.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Finland
• Detail arrangements for accommodation, food, and travel.
• Describe your planned activities, trips, events, meetings during your stay.
• Specify if you are seeking a multiple-entry visa and provide reasons.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Spain
• Affirm that you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay.
• Provide a comprehensive overview of your travel plans.
• Include details about your accommodation arrangements, such as hotel reservations.

When applying for a Schengen Visa, ensure you submit the following documents alongside your Cover Letter:

• Completed Schengen Visa Application Letter/Form
• Valid passport with at least six months of validity
• Passport-size photos adhering to Schengen visa photo guidelines
• Flight itinerary or reservations
• Schengen Visa Travel Health Insurance
• Proof of accommodation within a Schengen country
• No Objection Certificate from your employer/school
• Letter of Invitation from a relative or company in the destination country, as per the purpose of travel
• Proof of paid Schengen Visa fees
• Bank Statements covering the last six months

To submit your Schengen Visa cover letter, consider the following options based on your situation and location:

• The Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country you intend to visit.
• The Embassy/Consulate of another Schengen country, if the destination lacks diplomatic representation in your area.
• A designated visa application agency, outsourced by the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country you plan to visit.
• You can even say you can submit and we can help you prepare at a regulated immigration consultant like getgis

Remember, if you're visiting multiple countries, apply at the Embassy/Consulate of the first country on your itinerary.

When crafting a Schengen Visa cover letter, it is crucial to be mindful and avoid pitfalls or errors. These include:

• Illogical Explanations

Provide logical reasons for your trip and intentions to return home. Be specific and avoid vague statements.

• Repetition of Document Information

Your cover letter should reveal unique details not found in other documents. Tell a story that complements, not duplicates, your reservations.

• Spelling and Grammar Errors

While minor mistakes are acceptable, excessive errors may convey a lack of respect for the application process. Pay attention to spelling, punctuation, and layout.

• Disorganized Document List

Present a well-organized list of documents in order of priority. Start with mandatory items, followed by those relevant to your trip and personal situation.

• Misalignment with Supporting Documents

Ensure that the details and reasons mentioned in your cover letter align with the information in other submitted documents. Any contradiction may lead to rejection.

We hope the blog on the Schengen visa cover letter has addressed your uncertainties and inquiries, boosting your confidence in the application process. If you have additional questions or topics you'd like us to cover, feel free to reach out to GetGIS immigration experts.

Schedule a Free Consultation Now

Quick Reads:

• How Can I Avoid Schengen Visa Rejection? (Expert Tips)
• A Comprehensive Guide to Germany Visa Requirements in 2023-24
• Cost of Studying in Germany: All You Need to Know
• Complete Guide on Sweden Visa Types & Requirements
• Understanding The Austria Tourist Visa Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a cover letter required for a Schengen visa?

Why are Schengen visas rejected?

Is a cover letter necessary in Europe?

How to create an effective cover letter?

How to avoid Schengen visa refusal?

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Home > Blog > Guides > Schengen Visa Cover Letter

Schengen Visa Cover Letter

on 22 Nov, 2021

Guide To The Cover Letter For Your Schengen Visa Application

What is a schengen visa application cover letter.

A Schengen Visa Cover Letter (or Covering Letter) is a document written by you and addressed to the Schengen Embassy/Consulate along with the other documents you are required to submit. 

The letter should provide additional information concerning the purpose of your trip and your intentions to return to your country of residence. 

The letter acts as a personal introduction as it shows to the Embassy/Consulate officers a brief summary of your travel background (e.g., travel dates, employment background, etc.). 

In other words, your cover letter is a summary of your Visa application . 

Your Covering Letter For Schengen Visa Is The First Direct Contact Between You And The Embassy

The cover letter represents a way of communication between you and the embassy officer, in which you are explaining your reasons for your trip and why you should be accepted. 

Please note that some Embassies/Consulates have chosen to outsource the Visa application process meaning that you have to submit your application through an outsourcing company such as VFS Global. 

In this case, your cover letter is your only chance to communicate with the Embassy/Consulate officers and explain your details and the reason why you believe they should grant you a Visa as well as your intentions to only travel and not to overstay your Visa, as they will not be able to see you face-to-face.

This letter is not a mandatory requirement meaning that the applications that do not include it will not necessarily be rejected or delayed. 

However, we strongly recommend and urge you to submit it as it does more than make a good impression on the Embassy/Consulate officers and speed up your Visa application process – Your cover letter can significantly increase your chances of success because it summarises every item you have provided. 

You should submit a Visa application cover letter even if you have been invited by a partner company to the Schengen Region and you are applying for a Business Visa .

The Importance Of The Schengen Visa Cover Letter

The cover letter is an important document as it gives you the chance to introduce yourself and make your travel purpose clear. 

The letter is important for your application because:

● It gives you the opportunity to provide information that your other documents cannot provide.

Most of the documents that you must submit are official documents that cannot clearly highlight your travel background. 

In other words, your covering letter is the only document that can actually tell a story. 

Telling a story can be a powerful communication tool because the Embassy/Consulate officers can understand who you actually are and why you should get a Visa. 

● It helps the Visa officers save time and therefore speed up your application process.

Embassies/Consulates receive hundreds of applications weekly. 

Sometimes, those responsible for processing them do not have time and patience to figure out the purpose of the journey and the intentions to return to the country of residence by analysing all of the documents of each single Visa applicant. 

This does not mean that they do not check your documents carefully but they typically do it to determine if they show consistency. Therefore, this letter can simply make your application process easier for them.  

How To Get A Schengen Visa Cover Letter

Getting most of your Visa application documents depends on bureaucracy/laws in your country of residence/other people that must write and sign your documents. 

The cover letter is the only document that you must write and sign by yourself (together with the Visa Application Form and your day-to-day travel itinerary ).

Once you have gathered all of your documents, you can write the letter on your computer. 

We recommend you write it after you gather the rest of your documents because the letter should include a list of the documents that you are submitting for your application. 

Important: If you are not familiar with this type of letter, you can download one of our templates (please select the one that is the most relevant for your situation) and fill it out following our suggestions. Please contact us for further details.   

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Writing A Schengen Visa Cover Letter

Even though the cover letter should not be very long and must contain only key information about you as an applicant, there are several mistakes that you should avoid making. 

Also, do not forget that the cover letter does not have to be too long and the information on it must match the information on your other documents .  

Not all the below errors can lead to the rejection of your application but your chances of approval may decrease. 

Therefore, we strongly recommend you double-check your covering letter before submitting it so that you can be sure it does not contain one of the following mistakes:

• Not using logical arguments to explain the purpose of your trip and your intentions to return to your country of residence

Logical reasoning is a powerful tool not only for your covering letter but also during the interview with the Embassy/Consulate officers. 

Make sure you know how to explain the reason as to why you travel to the Schengen Region and your intentions to return to your country of residence. 

For example, “ I want to visit France because I like it ” or “ I want to visit France because it is a nice country ” are not logical reasons as to why you want to visit France (or another Schengen country). 

You should be more specific. For example: “ I want to visit France because I’ve been fascinated by French culture ever since I was a child ”. 

The same rule applies to the explanation of your intentions to return to your country of residence. Writing “ I will return to my country of residence because I cannot stay in the Schengen Region ” is not a logical reason as to why you will not overstay your Visa. 

You can write instead: “ I will return to my country on August 15 because my employer did not allow me to take more than 3 weeks off ” or “ I will return on September 20 because I must attend a vocational training course upon the request of my employer .”

• Providing the same information that is already outlined by your other documents

One of the purposes of your covering letter is to outline details about your trip that are not indicated by your other documents. 

For example, in case of a tourist Visa application you should not write: “ I will be travelling to France between October 20, 2020, and November 17, 2020, and I will stay at Hotel Lafayette in 23 Rue des Messageries, Paris .” 

Of course, this information is important because it shows relevant details about your trip but the Embassy/Consulate officers can easily understand your trip details by checking your flight and hotel reservations. 

As we mentioned above, you should try to tell a story in your covering letter (even though you have to maintain a professional tone). 

For example, you can write: “ I will be travelling to France between October 20, 2020, and November 17, 2020. I have chosen to spend almost one month in France as I strongly believe that I need time to visit the most important tourist attractions and get to know the French culture. I will stay at Hotel Lafayette in 23 Rue des Messageries because the hotel is located within walking distance of the most important places of interest in Paris.”   

• Submitting a cover letter that contains spelling mistakes

Not all applicants have an excellent command of English, and the Embassy/Consulate officers won’t judge you if you make some grammar mistakes (especially because it is highly likely that English is not their native language).  

But a covering letter that contains too many spelling mistakes and does not follow some specific layout rules (the way that words are set up on the page) will make the Embassy/Consulate officers believe that you do not have a sense of consideration for the event and are not respecting the application process (which is your Schengen Visa application). 

Therefore, you need to pay attention to the spelling, punctuation, capitalisation, and layout of the letter. 

Please read carefully the two cover letter sample paragraphs below (please note that none of them is a complete sample cover letter and you need a more detailed template/sample in order to write a cover letter for Schengen Visa application):

Sample 1: 

“Dear sir madam I would like to apply at your consulate general for a schengen visa for visit friend in Netherlands.

My name is raji anand. I will be travelling from new delhi to amsterdam between octobr 15 and November 17  My employer has already approved my vacation and leave from work for the duration of 1 months. I hold an Indian passport no xxxxxx and I have attached passport size pictures to these cover letters. please do not hesitate to contact me for more information !Thanking you in advance, Raji anand. ”

“Dear Visa Officer,

I would like to apply for a Schengen Visa upon my intention to visit the Netherlands between October 15, 2020 and November 17, 2020.

My name is Raji Anand and I am an Indian citizen. I will be travelling from New Delhi to Amsterdam to visit my close friend, John Smith, who has also provided a sponsorship letter to support my Visa application as he will be covering all of the expenses for the duration of this trip.

I have attached to this letter the following documents [List of documents] .

Please do not hesitate to contact me for any questions and clarifications.

Raji Anand”

Bad spelling and writing mistakes (like the ones in the first sample) will make you seem less credible and the Embassy/Consulate officers may believe that you do not have a sense of consideration for your application process. 

At the same time, attention to details such as spelling, punctuation, and capitalisation (as shown by the second sample that we provided as an example) will make the Visa officers think that you are an organised and responsible person who put effort into preparing the Visa application.  

• Not presenting the list of documents you are submitting in order of priority

Show the Embassy/Consulate officers that you are an organised person. 

You should mention the list of documents that you are submitting for your application in order of priority (and not randomly). 

Start with the documents that are mandatory for all applicants no matter their personal situation (application form, passport, insurance, etc.) and then add the documents that are mandatory according to the purpose of your trip (e.g., hotel reservations ,   flight reservations , and travel itinerary – if you are applying for a tourist visa) and the documents that are mandatory according to your personal situation (e.g., employment contract , No Objection Certificate (NOC) Letter from your Employer, payslips , your bank statements , etc. – in case you are employed and you pay the expenses for your trip by yourself). 

For further details concerning the Schengen Visa requirements and the order that you should keep when listing them in your covering letter, please check out this blog post.  

• Submitting a Cover Letter that does not align to information and facts provided in other documents

The details and reasons outlined within your cover lettering must align to the same information and evidence you have provided in every other document you are submitting. 

If you contradict or state a point in your letter that does not align to the documents you provide to the Embassy/Consulate, you could jeopardise the entire application, which may cause your Schengen Visa to be rejected.

For example, if in your cover letter, you outline that you are travelling to stay with your family who lives in Italy but you do not include an invitation letter or sponsor for accommodation letter from them, then it contradicts the information in your application. 

Another example is that you say you are traveling for tourism but then you have an invitation letter from a business in your documents. Or, when your passport number and other personal details in your letter do not match the details in your other documents.

Confused Where To Start?

If you are confused, worried or stuck, the best next step to take is to Get a Free Consultation .

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There is no commitment to use our services at all, we just provide you advice based on our assessment of your situation and give you the next steps you need to follow to get your Schengen visa.

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TIPS ON WRITING A POWERFUL COVER LETTER FOR YOUR VISA APPLICATION

Table of contents, introduction.

A well-crafted cover letter can play a crucial role in the visa application process. It serves as a personalized introduction to the applicant, allowing them to present their case more effectively to the visa officer. The cover letter provides an opportunity to highlight the key reasons for travel, demonstrate ties to the home country, and clarify any aspects of the application that might raise questions. By effectively articulating the purpose of the visit and reassuring the visa officer of the applicant’s intentions to abide by visa regulations, a well-written cover letter can significantly influence the outcome of the application.

This guide is particularly useful for a wide range of visa applicants, including those applying for tourist, student, and work visas. Each type of visa application has its unique requirements and challenges, and a tailored cover letter can address these specifics, enhancing the applicant’s chances of approval. Whether the applicant is planning a short vacation, seeking to study abroad, or pursuing career opportunities, this guide provides essential tips and templates to help them craft an impactful cover letter that resonates with their individual application context.

Understanding the Purpose of a Visa Cover Letter

Clarify Objectives

The main goals of a visa cover letter are multifaceted and critical to the success of the application:

Introducing the Applicant: The cover letter formally introduces the applicant to the visa officer. It’s an opportunity to present oneself beyond the facts and figures of the application forms. This introduction should convey a sense of the applicant’s character and reliability.

Outlining the Purpose of Visit: A key element of the cover letter is to articulate the reason for travel clearly. This could range from tourism, education, work, or visiting family and friends. It’s important to be clear and concise, providing enough detail to demonstrate that the plan is well thought out and credible.

Establishing Intent to Return to Home Country: One of the visa officer’s primary concerns is ensuring that the applicant plans to return to their home country after their visit. The cover letter should address this by highlighting strong ties to the home country, such as family, employment, or ongoing studies, which indicate the applicant’s intent to return.

Personalization

Personalization is key in a visa cover letter. Each visa type (tourist, student, work, etc.) has its own set of expectations and requirements:

Tourist Visa: Focus on the itinerary, places of interest, and the reason for choosing the specific destination. I think highlighting return tickets and hotel bookings can be beneficial.

Student Visa: Emphasize the educational goals, the reason for choosing the particular institution, and future career plans in the home country.

Work Visa: Outline professional objectives, the importance of this particular position, and how it fits into long-term career plans.

Moreover, personal circumstances should be taken into account. If there are unique situations like medical treatment, family reunions, or participation in specific events, these should be clearly stated. The more tailored the cover letter is to the individual’s situation and the specific type of visa being applied for, the more effective it will be in supporting the visa application.

Start With The Basics

When crafting a visa cover letter, beginning with the right format sets a professional tone for your application. Here’s how to do it:

Your Address : Start with your full address at the top left corner of the letter. This includes your street address, city, state, and zip code. This information should be aligned to the left margin.

Date : Below your address, leave a space and then include the current date. This should be the date on which you are writing or sending the letter.

Embassy/Consulate Address : After the date, leave another space and then write the address of the embassy or consulate to which you are applying. This should include the name of the embassy/consulate, its street address, city, and country. Align this address to the left margin, similar to your personal address.

Addressing the Visa Officer : The salutation should be formal. Typically, it’s advisable to use “Dear Visa Officer” or “Dear Consular Officer”. This is a respectful and general way of addressing the individuals responsible for processing your visa application. Avoid using generic salutations like “To whom it may concern”, as they can appear impersonal.

By following these basic guidelines, you ensure that your cover letter adheres to the standard norms of formal correspondence, reflecting your seriousness and respect for the visa application process.

Introduce Yourself

• Your Name and Nationality : Begin with your full name as it appears in your passport. Following your name, mention your nationality. This basic information establishes your identity for the visa officer.
• Main Reason for Visit : Clearly state the primary purpose of your visit. Whether it’s for tourism, education, work, or to attend a specific event, make this clear from the outset. This sets the context for the rest of your letter.

Background Details

• Employment or Educational Status : If it’s relevant to your visit, could you mention your current employment or educational status? For instance, if you are a student planning to study abroad, mention your current educational institution and what you plan to study. If you’re employed, state your job title and employer. This information can help the visa officer understand your ties to your home country and your reasons for returning.
• Relevance to Your Visit : Explain briefly how your employment or educational status is relevant to your visit. For instance, if you’re attending a professional conference, your job role and responsibilities might be pertinent. For a student visa, your current field of study and future aspirations could be relevant.

State the Purpose of Your Visit

This section is critical as it directly addresses the core of your visa application — the reason for your travel. It’s important to be specific and clear, providing enough detail to support your application.

Clear Intentions

• Purpose of Trip : Begin by explicitly stating the purpose of your trip. This should be a clear and straightforward declaration. For instance, “I am applying for a tourist visa for a two-week holiday in [Country],” or “I am seeking a student visa to pursue my master’s degree at [University Name].”
• Specific Reason : If there are specific reasons tied to the nature of your visit, such as attending a business conference, participating in a cultural event, or visiting family for a special occasion, mention these. The more specific you are, the clearer your intentions will appear to the visa officer.

Itinerary Details

• Travel Itinerary : If you have a travel itinerary, briefly outline it. Include key destinations, dates, and any booked accommodations. For business or student visas, mention the institutions or organizations you visit or affiliate with. We can help you plan your trip by availing our  itinerary service.
• Meetings or Contacts : If your trip involves meeting specific people or attending specific events, mention these. For example, “I plan to attend the International Business Conference held at [Venue] from [Start Date] to [End Date],” or “I will be visiting my brother, [Name], who resides at [Address].”

By providing a clear and detailed account of your travel plans, you demonstrate to the visa officer that you have a well-thought-out purpose for your visit and that your intentions align with the type of visa you are applying for. This clarity can significantly strengthen your application.  

Explain Your Ties to Your Home Country

A critical aspect of your visa application is demonstrating strong ties to your home country assuring the visa officer of your intention to return after your visit. Here’s how to effectively convey this:

Strong Ties

• Family Connections : If you have close family (like parents, spouse, or children) in your home country, mention them. Explain your role and responsibilities within your family unit, which indicate your need to return.
• Employment : Detail your current employment situation. Include your job title, the name of your employer, and how long you have been with the organization. If you have a letter from your employer granting leave for your travel, mention that as well.
• Property Ownership : If you own property, such as a house or land, in your home country, mention this. Property ownership is a strong indicator of your ties and intention to return.

Evidence of Return

• Ongoing Commitments : Highlight any ongoing commitments that necessitate your return. This can include a job that you need to return to, a business you run, or educational courses you are enrolled in.
• Future Plans : If you have specific plans upon your return, such as career progression, further education, or family events like weddings or anniversaries, mention these. Such plans can reinforce your intention to return.
• Supporting Documentation : If you can provide evidence of your ties, such as a job contract, business ownership documents, or family details, mention that these documents are available. You don’t need to include them with the cover letter but be prepared to present them if requested.

By effectively demonstrating your strong ties to your home country, you significantly enhance the credibility of your claim that your visit is temporary and that you intend to return after your stay. This is a key factor in the visa decision-making process. You can read more about  Proof of Strong Ties for Your Schengen Visa Application in the Philippines .

Financial Responsibility

When applying for a visa, demonstrating your financial responsibility is crucial. This section of your cover letter should clearly outline how you plan to financially support your trip.

Financial Stability

Self-sponsorship : If you are self-sponsoring your trip, asserting your financial stability is important. Briefly explain your financial situation, such as your regular income, savings, or investments, which indicate your ability to cover all travel expenses, including accommodation, food, and emergencies.

Sponsorship : If someone else is sponsoring your trip, state the relationship with the sponsor (e.g., family member, friend, employer) and their commitment to supporting you financially during your visit.

Supporting Documents

I’d like you to please mention that you have attached relevant financial documents to your application. This could include bank statements showing your savings, income statements, or a sponsorship letter if applicable.

Details of Documentation : If you are providing a sponsorship letter, ensure it includes the sponsor’s name, their relationship to you, their contact information, and a statement of their commitment to support you financially during your trip. If using bank statements, mention that they reflect your current financial status and ability to fund your travel.

Including clear and detailed information about your financial responsibility in your cover letter helps assure the visa officer that you are capable of supporting yourself during your trip and will not become a financial liability in the country you plan to visit.

Cover Accommodation and Health Insurance

In this section, you should provide details about your accommodation plans and health insurance coverage for your trip, as these are important aspects of your travel preparations.

Accommodation Details

Staying with Friends or Relatives : If you are planning to stay with friends or relatives, provide their names, addresses, and contact information. It can be helpful to mention your relationship with them and the duration of your stay.

Hotel Accommodation : If you will be staying in a hotel or rented accommodation, mention the name of the hotel or the address of the rental, along with the duration of your stay. If you have pre-booked your accommodation, stating this can add credibility to your travel plans.

Health Insurance

Travel Health Insurance Coverage : Clearly state if you have secured travel health insurance for the duration of your stay in the destination country. Include details about the coverage, such as medical expenses, emergency services, and repatriation, if applicable.

Insurance Documentation : Mention that you have attached or can provide documentation of your travel health insurance policy. This reassures the visa officer of your preparedness for any health-related contingencies during your trip.

Addressing your accommodation and health insurance arrangements in your cover letter adds depth to your application, showcasing your thorough planning and responsibility as a traveler. This information can play a significant role in the overall assessment of your visa application.

Conclude a Polite Request

The conclusion of your visa cover letter is an opportunity to reinforce your request and demonstrate your willingness to cooperate with any additional requirements. Here’s how to effectively wrap up your letter:

Request for Consideration

Polite Appeal : Conclude your letter with a courteous appeal for a favorable consideration of your application. This could be phrased as, “I respectfully request that my application for a [type of visa] be considered favorably.”

Expression of Gratitude : It’s also good practice to express gratitude for the time and effort taken by the visa officer to review your application. A simple statement like, “I appreciate your consideration of my application,” can be effective.

Availability for Further Information

Openness for Communication : Indicate your willingness to provide any additional information that may be required. This shows that you are cooperative and serious about your application.

Readiness for Interview : If applicable, state that you are available for an interview or any further discussions regarding your visa application. This could be stated as, “I am readily available for an interview or to provide any further information needed for my application.”

By concluding your cover letter with a polite request and showing openness for further communication, you leave a positive impression on the visa officer, demonstrating your earnestness and respect for the visa application process.

Attach Supporting Documents

Concluding your visa cover letter with a comprehensive list of supporting documents is crucial. This not only demonstrates your organizational skills but also makes it easier for the visa officer to review your application. Here’s how to do it:

List of Documents

Bank Statements : Include bank statements that demonstrate your financial stability and ability to support yourself during your visit.

Employment Letters : If you are employed, attach a letter from your employer. This letter should confirm your employment, your role, the duration of your leave (if applicable), and your expected return to work.

Itinerary : Provide a copy of your travel itinerary, which includes flight details, accommodation bookings, and a schedule of your activities or places you plan to visit.

Accommodation Confirmation : If you are staying with friends or relatives, include a letter from them confirming this arrangement. For hotel stays, attach booking confirmations.

Travel Health Insurance : Include documentation of your travel health insurance policy, showing the coverage details.

Sponsorship Letter (if applicable) : If someone else is sponsoring your trip, attach a sponsorship letter from them along with their financial documents.

Additional Documents : Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may need to include additional documents. For example, students should attach admission letters from educational institutions, and business visitors should include invitation letters from the hosting company.

End your cover letter with a statement like: “Enclosed, please find the following supporting documents for your review,” followed by a bulleted or numbered list of the documents. This clear and organized presentation of your supporting documents can significantly enhance the credibility of your application.

Proofread and Finalize

• Attention to Detail : Proofreading is crucial. Go over your letter multiple times to catch any grammatical errors or typos. These mistakes can make your application seem less professional and may negatively impact the perception of your attention to detail.
• Use Tools : Leverage tools like grammar checkers, but don’t rely solely on them. Sometimes, these tools can miss nuances in language or context-specific phrasing.

Professional Tone

• Respect and Formality : The tone of your cover letter should be respectful and formal. This reflects your seriousness and respect for the visa application process.
• Consistency : Ensure that the tone is consistent throughout the letter. Avoid using slang or overly casual language, as it may not be appropriate for a formal application.

Additional Tips

• Second Opinion : It can be helpful to have someone else read your cover letter. A fresh pair of eyes might catch errors you overlooked.
• Read Aloud : Reading your letter aloud can help you catch awkward phrasing or tone inconsistencies.
• Formatting : Make sure the overall formatting of the letter is professional. Use a standard font, proper alignment, and clear paragraph separation.
• Length : Keep the letter concise and to the point. A long-winded letter can lose its impact.
• Final Check : Before submitting, do a final check to ensure that all the information is accurate and that you have attached all the required documents.

The final step in your visa application cover letter process is to ensure it is polished, professional, and error-free. This conveys your seriousness about the application and demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in a professional setting. Remember, your cover letter is often the first impression the visa officer will have of you, so make it count.

Final Thoughts

Crafting a strong cover letter for your visa application is more than a mere formality; it’s a strategic component that can significantly influence the outcome of your application. By carefully presenting your case, explaining your travel purpose, demonstrating strong ties to your home country, and outlining your financial plans, you paint a comprehensive picture that goes beyond the basic documentation.

Remember, the goal of your cover letter is to provide context, add a personal touch, and preemptively address any questions or concerns that the visa officer might have. Your ability to communicate clearly and professionally through your cover letter reflects not only on your application but also on your overall preparedness for your journey.

In summary, the key to a powerful cover letter lies in its clarity, conciseness, relevance, and attention to detail. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you’re setting yourself up for success. Your cover letter is not just a letter; it’s a narrative of your travel intentions, a testament to your reliability, and a crucial step towards achieving your travel goals.

Common Reasons for Schengen Visa Rejection

Here are the common reasons a Schengen Visa application gets denied:

• No clear travel purpose —a detailed cover letter is a must!
• Lack of strong ties —reevaluate your application and prove why you must return to your home country!
• Insufficient travel insurance coverage —make sure you get the right policy!
• No proof of financial means —convince them that you can afford your trip! Provide bank or credit card statements, VUL, investment portfolio, etc.
• Passport does not have 2 free pages —where will they attach the visa if your passport pages are already full? You should get a new passport before applying for a visa if there are no more available pages on your old one!
• No proof of accommodation —you need to prove them that you have a place to stay in the Schengen Area.

Recap and Tips

So, just a recap and a reminder , please don’t forget these TIPS: 

If you ever need help, you can avail my   visa application bundle , and I will be glad to help you through the process!

Let Us Be Your Partner in Your Schengen Visa Journey

Applying for a Schengen Visa can be overwhelming, with all the paperwork involved and confusing information from different sources. We understand that—we’ve been there and have done that!

But through the years, we gained experience and knowledge on the ins and outs of the Schengen Visa application. We’ve helped countless satisfied clients ; we would like to invite you to be one of them!

With our Schengen Visa services personalized to your unique needs and circumstances, we will make your visa application less stressful and laborious, and more promising. Contact us to schedule a consultation or for other inquiries.

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A comprehensive guide

A visa application cover letter is a letter where you list the documents you're sending with your visa application. It's usually addressed to the head of the immigration department in the country you're applying to.

In this article, you'll learn about:

✔ Cover letter requirements .

✔ An example of one and a downloadable template .

✔ How to upload your cover letter on the iVisa application form?

Cover letter requirements

When writing a cover letter, remember to include these key elements:

The date of the cover letter

An introduction

Your nationality

The type of visa you're applying for

The length and dates of your trip

The name of the cities and accommodations you’re staying in

The address of those accommodations

Your signature

Your full name

Your phone and passport number ​

Important: While it's not required, we strongly recommend including your current occupation and the length of your employment to improve your chances of approval.

See this example

Download your free template.

Please note: This sample we're sharing is a reference meant to guide you. The cover letter requirements can change according to the country you’re applying for. But don't worry! During your application, we will provide you with a specific sample if it’s needed.

How to upload your cover letter on the iVisa application form?

This is a guide in case you have already paid for your travel document and want to upload your cover letter on your application. If you haven’t applied for your travel product yet, haven’t paid it yet, or have missing information on your form, you can check these articles:

➡️ How to apply for a visa?

➡️ How to complete my application?

➡️ How to add missing information on your application form?

Make sure you are in your account with your application form displayed.

On the left side, you will see the sections of your application you need to complete. Fill them out before uploading your cover letter.

Once you filled them out, select the documents section.

After you select the documents section, a list of required documents you’ll need to upload will appear on the right side of the form.

Click on the “Add document” button.

Before you upload, read the instructions, to submit a government-compliant cover letter. When you’re ready, click on the “Upload” button.

To upload your cover letter, you can either:

Select a file from your computer.

Select a file from your phone, using a QR code.

Once you’ve selected your document, click on the “Save and close” button.

That’s it! After uploading your cover letter, you can continue uploading the rest of your documents and submit your application.

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Cover Letter For Visa Application

An in-depth guide for 2024.

Are you wondering what a cover letter looks like?

Worried about preparing a strong visa application letter ? 

Or are you here for writing guidelines to enhance your visa cover letter ?

If so, you have landed in the right place. Our team of professional writers can help you write the perfect letter to embassy for visa request . By going through this writing guide, you can easily write a cover letter to apply for any type of visa, be it tourist visa, business visa, student visa or a work visa.

Table of Contents

What is a cover letter for visa application.

Cover Letter for Visa Application is a formal document submitted to the corresponding embassy to explain your reason for visiting the particular country. It is written in a professional tone and is submitted alongside your visa application form and other supporting documents.

Why is a Cover Letter important for Visa Application?

A Visa Application Letter serves various purposes and is thus an indispensable part of your visa application process. We have listed below the reasons why a cover letter plays this crucial role:

• You can clearly state your purpose for visiting the particular country, whether it is for study, business, work or sightseeing.
• A cover letter gives you the opportunity to add more details than other documents, emphasising your reasons to visit the country.
• You can provide justification to any adverse events like gaps in resume, reasons for career switch etc, if any.
• You can prove your English proficiency, attention to detail, formatting skills, etc through a well-written visa application letter.
• Through a cover letter you can give a full account of your previous and current experiences that make you eligible for the visa.

Key Elements to Include in a Visa Application Letter

Besides your purpose for travel , most visa application processes outline a set of elements that you must highlight in your cover letter for embassy . Though it varies from visa types, your cover letter must include these important points:

• Personal information:

Your cover letter must include your full name, passport details, phone number, address, as well as your personal background. 

• Applicant’s background:

You should mention your educational and professional credentials in your cover letter for visa application . 

Together with your arrival and departure timings, your cover letter must provide details of your travel plan including the flight details, places you plan to visit, etc. 

• Details regarding accommodation:

You should mention the details of your hotel booking or other arrangements made for your accommodation in your visa cover letter . 

• Financial information:

You must demonstrate your source of funding for your visit to the country whether it is personal, bank loan, sponsor, etc. 

• Intention to return to home country:

Your visa application letter should clearly explain your ties with your home country and prove your intentions to return after the desired visa tenure. 

• Contact information:

Ensure that you provide your email address, phone number or address in your cover letter for any clarifications or further queries. 

• Supporting documents:

Your cover letter for embassy must also enclose documents like bank statements, offer letters, educational transcripts, etc. to support your statements. 

How to Write a Cover Letter for Visa Application?

Writing a visa cover letter is not a simple task as it requires a close eye for attention. However, we have got you covered as this guide is prepared for you! 

We have compiled the following to facilitate your writing process and build your confidence to produce a strong visa application letter :

• Writing Guidelines 

Cover letter format for visa

• Download Sample Cover Letter 
• Formatting guidelines 
• Additional Tips For Writing 

Guidelines to help you Write Your Personalized Cover Letter For Embassy

A cover letter for visa application must be personalised, making you stand out from the rest. We have prepared this list of guidelines to help you draft one seamlessly:

• Research the requirements: Ensure that you learn the requirements of your visa type you are planning to apply for. You can contact the embassy or consulate if you are getting confused by online resources.
• Provide address and contact information: Ensure that you include your phone number, residential address and email address before you start the cover letter
• Address the letter correctly: Use the appropriate salutation as well as mailing address pertaining to the recipient (visa officer or concerned authority).
• Demonstrate genuine interest: Do not forget to express your intention to abide by the visa regulations, respect the country and return to your home country after the visa period is over.
• Include your travel history: You can add your previous experiences of international travel where you have successfully adhered to the visa regulations and prove your authenticity.
• Add personal anecdotes: You can personalise your cover letter by mentioning incidents from your life circumstances, educational or professional achievements etc.

A cover letter format for visa would give you a roadmap on how to structure the elements in a professional fashion. Hence, using a good format and referring to one while writing can improve the quality of your cover letter. 

• Your contact information:

A cover letter is written in a professional business letter format that starts with your (sender’s) full name, address, phone number, etc. 

 Mention the date on which you are drafting the cover letter for visa application . 

• Recipient information:

 Correctly mention the respective embassy or consulate information like name of recipient, his/her job title, department etc. 

• Salutation:

You can start the cover letter with a formal greeting. You can address the reviewer with their appropriate title to show respect. 

• Introduction:

 You can start by introducing yourself, the reason for writing the cover letter and the particular visa you are applying for. 

Your body paragraphs can clarify why you intend to visit the country. You can address all the unique requirements like reason for travel, ties to home country, financial sufficiency, duration and itinerary of the trip etc.

• Attachments:

You must list the documents you are additionally attaching in order to support the claims made in the body paragraphs. 

• Conclusion:

You can conclude the cover letter by thanking the visa officer for considering your application. You can also express openness to provide any further detail if required. 

Use a formal closing to end the cover letter, and ensure that you leave enough space to put your signature.

Cover Letter For Visa Application Template

Now that you have referred to a cover letter format for visa , a template can give you a clearer idea of the structure. Our professional writers have prepared this template to show you how to go about the task at hand:

(Your Name)

(Your Address)

(Your Email)

(Embassy/Consulate Address)

Dear Sir/Madam,

My name is (your name) and I hold the (name of country) passport (passport number). I am writing this letter in support of my (business/student/work/tourist) visa application to visit (name of country). I am excited to travel to (name of city/cities) from DD.MM.YYYY to DD.MM.YYYY and would be much obliged to be granted the visa for the same. 

My intention to visit (name of country) is (description about the purpose of visit). I look forward to (details of travel itinerary, study plan, business meetings, employment contract). 

My visit to (country) is funded by (myself/name of sponsor and relationship with him/her). I have (your financial assets and how you intend on funding your trip using them). I have attached the bank statements and property documents for your kind perusal. 

As scheduled, I plan to return to my home country on DD.MM.YYYY by (flight details). (explain the ties you have to your home country and your motivation to return after the visa tenure). 

I would like to extend my gratitude for your consideration. Please find my (all the attachments) enclosed with this letter. 

Sincerely, 

(Your Signature)

Download Sample Cover Letter to embassy for visa request Pdf

A good sample cover letter for visa application can provide you with the right motivation to get started on yours. Through the sample given below, you will be able to get a clear picture of what a cover letter should look and sound like:

June 16, 2023

The Visa Officer

Canada High Commission

Subject: Anamika Singh, Passport XXXXX , Tourist Visa application

My name is Anamika Singh and I am an Indian citizen holding passport number XXXXXX. I am writing to apply for a Tourist Visa to visit Canada from DD.MM.YYYY to DD.MM.YYYY. The purpose of my visit is purely personal as I am looking forward to attending my friend, Satya Kumari’s engagement ceremony scheduled on DD.MM.YYYY and touring in Canada with her to explore the natural beauty fostered by the country. 

Travel Plan for 2 weeks

My intended period of stay in Canada is 2 weeks. I intend to arrive at DD.MM.YYYY at (name of airport) and head straight to (address) where my friend Satya stays. The next day we plan to go shopping at (name of place). I have set aside the next two days to help her set the operations and logistics of her engagement ceremony. After the engagement ceremony and after party on DD.MM.YYYY, I intend to spend the weekend in (name of city). 

On DD.MM.YYYY, both Satya and I have decided to visit (names of popular destinations). We have reservations at (name of hotel) and we intend to explore the picturesque and offbeat places in and around (name of city). On DD.MM.YYYY, I plan to board (flight number) (at flight timing) to return back to my home country.

Personal Information

I was born on DD.MM.YYYY to a middle class family in Mumbai, India. My father, Ravinder Singh is a retired defence personnel and my mother, Aarti Singh is a retired private school teacher. Though they have been the backbone of my entire existence, I have been taking charge of the responsibilities at home lately as they are approaching their old age with every passing day. 

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and am a member of the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (UK) since YYYY. I am currently working with the Strategy team at KPMG Mumbai and am drawing an annual salary of XXXXXX. 

Details of my friend in Canada

My travel plan to visit Canada is primarily focused on celebrating my close friend, Satya Kumari’s engagement with Krish Sultania. My friendship with Satya dates back to our college days in YYYY and I am excited for her big day. She currently resides at (address) where I intend to spend my first week of visit. She works as a Finance Manager 2 at the Royal Bank of Canada and is available at (phone number) and (email id) for any queries. 

Incentive to return home

I have been raised in a very intimate and loving family. Hence, I cannot afford to prolong my stay in Canada. I have to return to my parents who will be depending on my cousin sister, Sheila Singh who is currently in town for her semester break from college. Moreover, I have to come back to take care of Casper, our 4 year old German Shepherd. I share an inseparable bond with him and neither do my parents nor Sheila have the energy to entertain him. 

Besides all these, I have to resume my job at KPMG after this 2 week break. I also have a close group of friends in Mumbai and I am very connected with the city. Hence, I intend to board the flight back to my permanent home on DD.MM.YYYY. 

Financial details 

My visit to Canada is fully funded by myself. I have estimated the total expenditure to be around CAD XXXXX and I have been maintaining a bank balance of Rs XXXXX in my savings account for the past 4 years. I have hereby attaching all the bank statements for your kind consideration. 

I have attached the following documents to this letter:

• Visa application form
• Passport size photographs
• Travel insurance 
• Confirmed flight tickets
• Hotel reservation details
• Bank statements

Thank you so much for taking the time to consider my application. I look forward to hearing a positive response from your end and being there for my friend on such a beautiful occasion. 

Yours Sincerely, 

Anamika Singh

Formatting guidelines to produce a strong visa application letter

A well-structured and formatted visa cover letter can increase the readability and enhance the credibility of your application. You must consider these formatting guidelines:

Cover Letter After Visa Refusal

Have you faced a visa rejection and delayed your plan to fly abroad? Don’t worry, writing a faultless cover letter after visa refusal can help you tackle the problem and make your path clear. A cover letter after visa refusal is a crucial document that helps you address the faults pointed out by the Visa officer while rejecting your primary visa application. So let’s look in detail at the common reasons for visa rejection and how they can be fixed.

What are the reasons for Rejection of your visa Application?

There can be numerous reasons for visa rejection, as each application differs in its nature, country being applied to, visa policies and requirements, types of visa being applied to, etc. Below is a list of the most common reasons for the visa rejections; understand them and take care to avoid them in your cover letter for visa application.

• Inaccurate or Incomplete Application: Failure to provide sufficient documents, inaccurate filling of application, omission of required information, etc. can be a major reason for visa rejection.
• Inadequate fund: The most common reason for a visa rejection is the inability of the candidate to prove their financial sufficiency to fund the trip.
• Inability to show strong ties to the home country: Candidate has to provide strong ties to the home country in terms of family, property, and employment. Failure to provide the same will result in visa rejection.
• Criminal record: Considering the security of the citizens of the host country, candidates with criminal history would be denied a visa to enter the country.
• Lack of clear travel purpose: Failure to provide a concrete reason to travel, like business meetings, tourism, function, etc. will lead to rejection of your visa application.
• Submission of fraudulent documentation: Submission of false documents, like invitation letters, travel itineraries, bank statements, employment records, can lead to immediate rejection of visa application and potential legal actions against the candidate.
• History of Overstaying on previous visa: Records of overstaying in the previous visa in any country including the one chosen may result in the denial of visa.
• Inadequate travel insurance: In order to travel to some countries, applicants may require valid travel insurance coverage and failure to provide the same would result in visa rejection.
• Health or security concerns: Health and security concerns of the candidate can also be a major reason for the visa rejection. If the candidate has a medical condition that could strain the health care system of the destined country, or if the candidate has a security concern, visa would be denied.

Remember, each country has their own visa requirements and criteria, so it is vital to understand and fulfill necessary visa conditions and requirements before applying for a visa.  Since a visa approval is solely based on the visa officer’s discretion, there would be cases where a visa can be rejected without a solid reason.  

How do I write a visa cover letter when a visa application has been rejected?

Write the below paragraph in Bulletpoints

Writing a visa cover letter after visa rejection is a challenging task. But with a positive and detailed approach you can address the reasons for rejection and write a compelling cover letter for visa application. Following the below mentioned steps will help you write an impeccable cover letter for visa application. 

• Address the letter properly
• Express your disappointment
• Understand and address the reason for rejection
• Highlight the changes made in the application 
• Conclude with a positive note

Additional Tips For Writing Your Cover Letter for Visa Application

Keep these tips in mind to help you draft a unique and personalised visa cover letter :

• Use clear and straightforward sentences in your cover letter. Do not provide any vague statements that give rise to circumstance for ambiguity.
• Follow the formatting guidelines and ensure that it is organised well. Make sure that the spacing and font is consistent throughout the document.
• Use a formal yet enthusiastic tone. Do not use colloquial terms or slang that may cause confusion.
• Proofread carefully and check for any errors in spelling, grammar or punctuation.
• Do refer to samples for inspiration, but ensure that you refrain from copying the same. Plagiarism will discredit your application.

What are the Types of Visa Cover Letters?

There are different types of visa categories and thus cover letters for each are unique to the same. Listed below are the various types of visa cover letters you will come across:

• Cover Letter for Tourist Visa: Tourist Visa requires you to produce a cover letter that clearly states your arrival and departures dates, details of your flight and hotel bookings, your itinerary, your travel history, etc.
• Cover Letter for Business Visa: Your business meetings, plans, and events that you expect to attend in the particular country should be highlighted in your cover letter. You must also mention how your visit would help the country’s business environment to impress the immigration officer.
• Cover letter for Student visa: You should stress your intention to pursue the specific study program in the concerned country in the cover letter for student visa. It must also include your prior academic and professional experiences, your links to your home country, and your career goals.
• Cover letter for Work Visa: Your cover letter must include details about your educational background, professional experience, employment offer to work in that particular country, etc., as well as how you could enhance the labour market there.
• Cover letter for Dependent visa: A dependent visa cover letter should essentially describe the applicant's relation to the principal visa holder. You can demonstrate both the applicant's economic dependence and the requirement that they stay with the primary visa holder.
• Cover letter for Spouse visa: Your cover letter for a spouse visa should emphasise your total commitment to relocating overseas with your spouse. In addition to proving the authenticity of your relationship, it should also mention your spouse's residency status.
• I-129F cover letter - This cover letter is submitted by a US citizen along with a Form I-129F to bring their fiance of a foreign origin to get married in the country. The cover letter must explain the couple’s individual personal information, history of their relationship as well as their intention to marry.

Visa Application Letters for Popular Countries

Every country has their unique set of requirements for the visa cover letters. We have listed below the most popular countries and the main elements to include in the same: 

• Cover letter for Schengen visa:
• Purpose of your visit in Schengen Area
• Detailed itinerary of your trip 
• Proof of financial sufficiency 
• Intentions to return to home country 
• Cover letter for Australia:
• Reason to visit Australia
• Reason why the visit will align with your future goals
• Itinerary of your trip
• Ties to home country
• Cover letter for Japan:
• Reason to visit Japan
• Travel plan and itinerary 
• Financial information
• Intention to respect laws, culture and regulations of Japan
• Cover letter for UK visa application:
• Purpose to visit the UK
• Itinerary and planned activities 
• Details of financial sufficiency 
• Strong ties to home country
• Cover letter for US visa application:
• Reason for visiting the US with specific details 
• Close connections in the US like friends, family, etc
• Understanding of the US culture, regulations and customs
• Previous visits to the US if any
• Cover letter for Canada visa:
• Purpose of visiting Canada
• Reason to choose Canada
• Detailed travel plan 
• Understanding of Canadian culture, tourist places, etc.
• Cover letter for New Zealand visa application:
• Purpose to visit New Zealand
• Your research on the offerings of New Zealand
• How the visit can contribute to your growth
• Commitment to comply with New Zealand’s biosecurity measures, immigration laws, etc. 
• Cover letter for France visa:
• Purpose of visiting France with specific details 
• Interest in French culture, history, etc. 
• Proficiency in French and previous visit to any French-speaking regions
• Any connections in France and how they plan to support your visit
• Cover letter for Turkey visa
• Purpose to visit Turkey and detailed itinerary 
• Knowledge and interest in Turkish culture, historical sites, etc.
• Any prior experiences or connections in Turkey 
• Any particular events or attractions in Turkey that piqued your interest
• Cover letter for Switzerland visa
• Purpose of visit and prepared itinerary 
• Reason why Switzerland is the preferred choice
• Knowledge of Swiss values, customs, etc. and respect for the same
• Any connections in Switzerland and how they will contribute to your experience

Final Checklist For Writing a Visa Cover Letter

A checklist will help you keep better track of your progress and let us help you:

• Have I clearly understood the specific requirements of the visa I am applying for?

Have I addressed the embassy or consulate in an appropriate manner?

• Is my purpose of visit clearly stated in my visa application letter ?
• Have I furnished all the supporting documents to support my claims?
• How many times have I proofread and revised the cover letter?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, you can refer to templates while writing a cover letter for your visa application. However, ensure that you tailor it to your application and include your personal experiences to stand out. 

Your cover letter should ideally be 1 – 2 pages long. 

No, it is not necessary to submit cover letters for every visa type. However, it is mandated by some countries. Consult with the consulate or embassy to learn about the requirements. 

Yes, a well-structured cover letter that clearly addresses every specific visa requirement can increase the credibility and authenticity of your application. 

Yes, you can definitely hire professional writers to draft a strong and convincing cover letter for your visa application.

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Mr. Sugathan is the founder of Professional Writing Services. He is an Army veteran who served the nation for more than two decades. During his tenure, he was involved in a lot of documentation and secretarial works. He has been drafting letters and documents on a daily basis.

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How To Write a Cover Letter for Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé)

To prepare a K-1 fiancé(e) visa application for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you must complete the required forms, gather supporting documents, and pay fees. It’s not mandatory to include a cover letter in your application packet, but doing so can help keep your application materials organized and make sure you don’t miss any required documents. You can also use the cover letter to highlight anything you want USCIS to know about your visa application. This article explains what a K-1 fiancé visa cover letter is and the elements it should include. There’s also a template you can use to write your own.

Written by Jonathan Petts .  Updated May 17, 2023

What Is a Form I-129F Cover Letter?

You’ll need to file Form I-129F : Petition for Alien Fiancé if you are a U.S. citizen who wants your foreign partner to receive a K-1 visa . Though it’s not required, writing a cover letter to supplement this form can be helpful for USCIS. A cover letter is a document that outlines your application contents and addresses any unusual circumstances you’d like to flag for your application readers.

A cover letter can give your USCIS officer a useful overview of you and your partner’s case. You can also use your cover letter as a personal checklist to make sure you’ve included all necessary documents in your package.

Is a Cover Letter Required for My Form I-129F Application?

USCIS does not require a cover letter for your Form I-129F petition package. However, it’s often beneficial for applicants to include cover letters. A cover letter can help your USCIS officer better understand and evaluate your overall application.

If there is anything unclear about you and your foreign fiancé’s relationship, a cover letter gives you the opportunity to address these concerns upfront. Remember that USCIS only wants to distribute K-1 visas to couples in genuine relationships. If there is anything unusual about how your relationship started or progressed, you may wish to address it with a disclaimer in your cover letter. 

If you call attention to any unusual circumstances in your cover letter, you’ll be able to explain your side of the story in greater detail. By giving USCIS greater clarity on your case, you can make it easier for the USCIS officer to process your application.

What Should My K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa Cover Letter Include?

You should begin your Form I-129F cover letter with a heading and greeting. Your heading should provide USCIS officials with your mailing address, your name, and your foreign partner’s name. Your introduction should then explain your reasons for writing this cover letter. Use your introduction to give USCIS a basic overview of your relationship and tell them you are seeking a K-1 visa for your fiancé.

Checklist of Information To Include in Your K-1 Fiancé Visa Cover Letter

USCIS will find it most helpful if you include the following information in your cover letter:

Your contact information

The USCIS address to which you’re sending this letter

Your full name as the petitioner

Your fiancé’s full name as the beneficiary

A note stating which form and visa you are filing an application for

A list of all the supporting documents you’ve included in your package, in bullet points:

You must include evidence of your U.S. citizenship, such as your birth certificate , copy of your naturalization certificate, Form FS-240, an unexpired U.S. passport, or an original statement from a U.S. consular officer verifying that you are a citizen with a valid passport.

You’ll also need evidence that you and your fiancé have legally terminated any previous marriages. For example, you may need to include divorce decrees , annulment orders, or a former spouse’s death certificate.

You’ll need one color passport-style photograph of yourself.

You’ll also need one color passport-style photograph of your fiancé taken within 30 days of filing.

If you or your fiancé have ever changed your name, you’ll need to provide evidence of this legal name change.

You’ll need evidence that you and your fiancé intend to marry within 90 days of their admission into the United States.

Finally, you’ll also need evidence that you and your fiancé have met in person within two years of filing for this visa. Alternatively, you may submit evidence that an in-person meeting would cause extreme hardship or violate strict traditions of your fiancé’s foreign culture.

Your signature and the date

Lastly, you should thank USCIS for their time and conclude your letter. Remember that this cover letter should be the first part of your application package that USCIS sees. You should place it at the top of your overall package before mailing it out to the appropriate USCIS office.

Where To Send Your Form 1-129F Application & Cover Letter

Note that USCIS processes Form I-129F at its Dallas lockbox, so you should mail your application to the address below that corresponds with your chosen mailing method:

U.S. Postal Service (USPS)

Attn: I-129F

P.O. Box 660151

Dallas, TX 75266-0151

FedEx, UPS, and DHL

Attn: I-129F (Box 660151)

2501 South State Highway 121 Business

Lewisville, TX 75067-8003

Note that there is a $535 fee to file Form I-129F. You may pay this fee with a money order, personal check, or cashier’s check. You should make any checks payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” When filing at a USCIS lockbox, you also have the option to pay by credit card. To pay with a credit card, you’ll need to file Form G-1450 : Authorization for Credit Card Transactions.

Form I-129F Cover Letter Template

You may use the following template for guidance when writing your USCIS Form I-129F cover letter. However, be sure to edit each field to reflect your own situation. You should replace each [bracketed field] with personalized information. To access an editable version of the Form I-129F cover letter sample below, you may make a copy of this sample USCIS cover letter .

Your foreign partner will be known as the “beneficiary” in this visa petition. You, the U.S. citizen sponsoring your foreign partner, are the “petitioner.” Note that you must be a U.S. citizen to sponsor your foreign partner’s K-1 visa application. U.S. green card holders cannot apply for K-1 visas for their foreign partners.

[Petitioner’s Street Address]

[Petitioner’s City, State  ZIP code]

[Relevant USCIS mailing address]

RE:[Marriage Green Card Application]

Beneficiary:[Immigrant’s Full Name]

Petitioner:[Citizen/Green Card Holder’s Full Name]

To Whom It May Concern:

Enclosed, please find my [K-1 Fiance Visa Application] for [Immigrant’s Full Name], the beneficiary, and [Petitioner’s Full Name], the petitioner and [U.S. citizen/Green Card Holder fiance] of the beneficiary. The following documents accompany and support this application:

Filing Fee Payments

[Check or Money Order] in the amount of [Current Fee Amount] for Form I-129F or  

Form G-1450 authorizing payment of the filing fees for all included forms (credit card charge authorization if you completed one)

[OPTIONAL Form G-1145 (e-notice authorization if you requested them in our system)]

Petitioner’s Form I-129F

[List of supporting documents]

If you have any questions or concerns, please call me at [Phone Number].  Thank you very much for your prompt consideration of my [K-1 Fiance Visa Application].

[Petitioner’s Full Name]

[Petitioner’s Signature]

[Signature Date]

Tips for Writing Your K-1 Fiancé Visa Cover Letter

Be sure to write your letter clearly and concisely. Remember that your cover letter is only a summary of your application contents, so you won’t need to write too many details in this letter. You should also use bullet points when listing your included application materials. Using bullet points will help your USCIS officer more easily understand your application throughout the visa process.

Within your letter, you’ll want to mention that the documents you’ve provided throughout your package are accurate and unaltered original documents or photocopies. If you’ve included any certified translations in your package, be sure to mention this too. 

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Free Covering Letter for visa application

We often hear travellers wondering how and where to get a free covering letter for their visa application. You must be thinking, as if there aren’t enough things to think of and plan, here’s another addition to the long list of documents! We understand many of you must be confused as to what kind of a cover letter you need to submit to the embassy and why would you need one. In this article, we will help you understand all this and also tell you how you can easily obtain a free covering letter for your visa application in a hassle-free manner.

WHY DO YOU NEED A COVER LETTER?

We get this question a lot! Before we get down to discussing how to get a free covering letter, it is essential to know why you need one in the first place. Well, it is a mandatory requirement from many embassies that the applicant submits a professional letter to communicate the purpose of travel, explain what you intend to do in the host country, and in general, justify the need to apply for a visa. Moreover, this is also another way for the embassy to ensure that you are a genuine traveller who is either visiting for tourism purpose or a temporary business purpose. The covering letter acts as an assurance and validation of the claims you make on your visa application form. Think of it as a way to establish a connect with the embassy that get this one chance to form an opinion of you. And it’s important to ensure that they form a good first impression based on the documents provided by you so there are minimal chances of visa rejection.

Don’t worry if this all feels a little too overwhelming. Read on to find out how we can help you get the perfect free covering letter to go with your application! This covering letter, once submitted, is then matched by the embassy with the details of the flight reservation for visa as well as the hotel reservation for visa provided by you as part of the visa application process.

Do read our articles about  flight reservation for visa  and  hotel reservation for visa application  if you’d like to know more about them.

WHAT SHOULD YOU INCLUDE IN THE COVERING LETTER?

A covering letter is required for both tourist as well as business visas. The purpose of visit for both of these visas is different and that needs to come through in the covering letter you are planning to submit. When drafting the letter, there are a few components that must be covered so your covering letter does not have inadequate information.

The purpose of your travel to the destination country. Explain in detail what your travel plans are – personal, medical, educational or business. Proof of how you will fund your trip (own funds or sponsor). This can be typically done by attaching your bank statements if self-funded. If you have a sponsor, explain your personal relationship with your sponsor and the reason why they will be sponsoring your trip. For example, if your parents live in the destination country, you can mention that as part of the covering letter. An overview of your itinerary, which also explains why you chose to apply at the specific embassy. This section should contain your travel dates, duration and plans. If you have plans of travelling to multiple countries, do mention that as well. If at all there are any documents you cannot submit, specify the reasons why you cannot submit and explain alternative documents that you may have submitted Your intent to return to your home country. This is one of the most important deciding factors for your visa approval or rejection. A concise list of all supporting documents you have submitted.

SAMPLE COVERING LETTER

What you see below is a typical covering letter for visa application. It’s really not as complicated as it seems! As discussed above, the sample letter contains all important details of travel plan of the applicant clearly mentioned. There is no ambiguity, which makes the applicant sound genuine and ultimately leads to higher chances of visa approval.

HOW TO GET A FREE COVERING LETTER FOR VISA APPLICATION?

If you have been wondering and stressing about how to get a free covering letter that will help you get the visa, RELAX! That’s exactly what we are here for. At  Visa Reservation Services , we have years of experience in helping our customers go through the visa application process easily and without any glitches. We are here to take all the trouble for you so you can peacefully plan your family holiday or that important business trip. We have different kinds of packages for all kinds of travellers, to help make the visa application process a breeze. The packages typically include a  flight reservation for visa , a  hotel reservation for visa  as well as a  travel insurance for visa application , along with the free covering letter. Doesn’t this make life much simpler? You just pick one package that fits your needs and we get all documents sorted for you at a nominal fee! Do get in touch with our team to find out more details of how we can help you and how you can go about choosing a package on our website.

Last Updated: July 4th 2023

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Hi I`ve read your coverletter but I need one to copy for a investor from my neighbouring country to come over to my country and come for consultation purposes and to see that business is fully functional and operative so he needs to stay a few months,and the business is kind of a manufacturing business,and the countries involved are South Africa and Namibia down in the south point of Africa

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Sample of Letter of Support for Visa Application: Free & Effective

In this article, I’ll guide you through a detailed, step-by-step process to write an effective letter of support for a visa application, including customizable templates to get you started.

Key Takeaways: Understanding the Purpose: Learn what a letter of support for a visa application is and why it’s important. Step-by-Step Guide: Follow a comprehensive guide to writing an effective letter. Free Template: Use the provided template to simplify your writing process. Real-Life Examples: Gain insights from examples based on actual experiences. Tips for Success: Discover key tips to enhance your letter’s impact.

Understanding the Purpose

A letter of support for a visa application is a document that provides additional assurance and details about the applicant.

It typically comes from a friend, family member, or employer and offers insights into the applicant’s character, purpose of visit, and plans during the stay.

Why is it Important?

• Strengthens the Application: It adds credibility to the applicant’s intentions.
• Personal Touch: Offers a personalized perspective on the applicant.
• Addresses Potential Concerns: Helps clarify any uncertainties visa officers might have.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing the Letter

1. Start with Personal Details:

• Your name, address, and contact information.
• Your relationship with the applicant.

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2. Introduction of the Applicant:

• Full name of the applicant as in their passport.
• Your personal connection and how long you’ve known them.

3. Purpose of Visit:

• Clearly state the reason for the applicant’s visit (e.g., tourism, business, family visit).
• Mention the planned duration and dates if known.

4. Assurances and Support:

• Confirm your support (accommodation, financial, etc.).
• Address the applicant’s plan to return to their home country.

5. Closing Remarks:

• Reiterate your support and confidence in the applicant.
• Provide your availability for further queries.

6. Signature:

• Sign the letter to authenticate it.

Sample of Letter of Support for Visa Application

[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to support the visa application of [Applicant’s Full Name]. My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Relationship with the Applicant] of [Applicant’s Name] for [Number of Years/Months].

[Applicant’s Name] intends to visit [Country] for [Purpose of Visit], from [Start Date] to [End Date]. During their stay, they plan to [Briefly Describe Activities or Plans].

I would like to assure that [Applicant’s Name] will be staying with me at my residence located at [Your Address]. I am fully prepared to provide for their needs during their visit, including accommodation and financial support if necessary.

I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] will comply with all the visa regulations and return to [Applicant’s Home Country] as planned. Please feel free to contact me if you need further information or clarification.

Thank you for considering this application.

Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Full Name]

Real-Life Example

In my experience, a well-drafted letter played a pivotal role in the successful visa application of my friend, Maria. Her purpose was to attend a conference, and the letter highlighted her professional background and the importance of the event in her career, which added significant value to her application.

List of Essential Elements:

• Clear Purpose: Indicate the specific reason for the visit.
• Personal Connection: Show your genuine relationship with the applicant.
• Support Details: Mention how you will support the applicant during their stay.
• Return Assurance: Highlight the applicant’s intent to return to their home country.

Tips for Success

• Be Honest: Provide truthful information.
• Keep It Concise: Stick to relevant details.
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone.
• Proofread: Check for errors before sending.

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Related posts.

• 3 Letter of Support for Visa Templates: Must-Haves
• Sample Immigration Letter Of Support For A Friend: Free & Effective
• Sample Letter for Visa Application for Family: Free & Effective

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is a Letter of Support for a Visa Application?

Answer: A letter of support for a visa application is a document provided by someone who knows the applicant, often a friend or family member, to help strengthen their visa application. 

In my experience, this letter detailed my relationship with the applicant, their purpose of visit, and my assurance of their compliance with visa terms. It made a significant difference in the approval process.

Q: How do I write an effective Letter of Support?

Answer: To write an effective letter of support, include specific details about your relationship with the applicant, the purpose of their visit, and their character. 

When I wrote one, I made sure to emphasize how well I knew the applicant and their reasons for traveling. Keeping the letter concise, factual, and heartfelt is key.

Q: Who should write the Letter of Support?

Answer: Ideally, the letter of support should be written by someone who has a close relationship with the applicant, such as a family member, friend, or employer. 

When I needed one, I asked my brother, who is a U.S. citizen, to write it. His status and our familial relationship added weight to the application.

Q: Is a Letter of Support mandatory for a visa application?

Answer: A letter of support is not always mandatory, but it can be incredibly beneficial. In my case, while it wasn’t required, it significantly helped in demonstrating my ties and intentions. 

It acts as a character reference and can provide additional assurance to the visa officers about the applicant’s credibility.

Q: What information should be included in the Letter of Support?

Answer: The letter of support should include the writer’s relationship to the applicant, the purpose of the visit, the applicant’s intended length of stay, and any assurances regarding adherence to visa regulations. 

When I wrote one, I also included details about my financial support and accommodation for the applicant, which provided further evidence of a well-planned visit

Exceptionally informative and well-organized, providing straightforward advice and useful strategies for composing an effective visa application support letter

I found the guidelines on writing a strong letter to support a visa application incredibly helpful and easy to follow!

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It is actually a nice and useful piece of information. I am happy that you shared this helpful info with us. Please keep us informed like this. Thank you for sharing.

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Get Cover letter for Visa Application in 5 minutes !!

by Lohith Kumar | Feb 12, 2024 | cover letter | 0 comments

For almost all visa applications, you will need to submit a document called as visa letter or cover letter (sometimes also called a personal cover letter). But there is rarely any consulate which provides you a sample of what they are looking for. But you need not worry; this article will show you how you can make a cover letter for visa application in under 5 minutes. This same format has been used by over 50,000 customers to get their visa approved by various consulates around the world. Note: The cover letter is the first document (in some cases the only document) the consulate will read to understand the whole summary of your visa application and help to make a case for the issuance of your visa.

You can download FlightGen App , create a login and make a cover letter for a visa in under 5 minutes.

IMPORTANT: You can get any single document at very affordable price, which starts from $3 and another offer is, get all types of visa documents unlimited for unlimited users from 1 account, for which price or subscription starts from $10/month.  FlightGen  offers multiple visa documents, including cover letters, travel itineraries, flight itineraries / dummy ticket, invitation letters, leave letters, and hotel itinerary / dummy hotel booking. Avail this offer as soon as possible!

Moreover, If you are applying for a tourist or business visa, you will need to submit a travel itinerary too and this requirement is handled by the cover letter that is created by this app.

What is a cover letter for visa application mean?

A cover letter is a document that provides all the important facts of a visa application, such as purpose of visit, travel dates, documents submitted and paper-work submitted for visa to make a case for the issuance of one’s visa application. A cover letter is the first document the visa officer would read, so it needs to sit on top of all the other documents you submit for your visa. It is also one of the most important one as the visa officer can cancel your visa application if he finds some inconsistances in your letter. Please note that the Cover Letter should be addressed to the Embassy or Consulate of the country you will visit, even if you are applying through a visa application center, such as VFS Global.

What details must be mentioned in a cover letter for visa application?

A cover letter for visa application is a document that explains the purpose of your visit to a foreign country and the nature of your relationship with the person inviting you. This letter is written to the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit and provides information about your trip, including your travel dates, the reason for your visit, and any additional information that may support your visa application. The cover letter for visa application is an important document that can help support your visa application and increase your chances of getting approved. With that said, a cover letter, like any formal letter, must contain the details of the person you are addressing, a subject explaining the purpose of your travel and who it is from, so the visa applicant’s name, phone number, and email (in case the consulate want to contact you for any clarification). But in addition, a good cover letter must also contain details such as the purpose of travel, your travel itinerary , documents you have submitted, and your work information.

So a good cover letter must have all the details mentioned below in the same order.

• Addressing the consulate
• Travel dates
• Countries of travel (If Schengen or visiting multiple countries, then see our cover letter for Schengen visa article )
• Purpose of travel.
• Day wise travel itinerary .
• Financial status
• proof of sustenance
• Your employment or business information
• Documents submitted for your visa.
• Your Contact information if the consulate wants to get in touch for some reason

Should I submit a cover letter for Schengen visa ?

Yes, a cover letter is needed for Schengen visa application, although it is not mentioned in the required documents for Schengen visa, it is your responsibility to provide a cover letter. The same is requested by VFSGlobal here.

Why do you need to submit a cover letter for visa application?

When your visa application is on the desk of the visa officer, the first document they would read is your cover letter as doing so will allow them to establish the genuineness of your trip along with proving that you have a strong intent to return your home country. A trained visa officer will be able to find gaps and inconsistencies in your visa application. For example, you have applied for 10 days Schengen visa with France but you are only staying in France for 2 days (with 5 days in Germany) based on your travel itinerary, then the visa officer can reject your visa application directing you to apply with Germany. Or maybe you have not submitted all the required documents for your visa to be approved, and then the visa officer may contact you and ask for additional information, if added in the cover letter.

What are the documents that must be mentioned in a cover letter for visa application?

This depends on the type of visa you are applying for as the documents you submit for tourist visa is different from a business visa. But there are a set of documents that is common for most of the visa types such as:

• A passport with at-least 6 months of validity from the date of visa approval.
• A completed visa form, or two visa forms in some cases.
• Any flight bookings or flight itinerary for visa.
• Proof of accommodation , such a hotel or resort bookings.
• Proof of sustenance, such as bank statements, credit cards, or a sponsorship letter.
• Photo as per visa specification
• Proof of ties to your home country, such as your home, tax payments, or electricity bills.
• Proof of work, such as an employment letter or certificate of incorporation for your company.
• A travel itinerary with a day-wise breakup of your activity once your visa is approved.

Along with these, you may need to submit other documents based on your visa type.

How to write a cover letter for visa application?

If you use FlightGen App , there is no need to write a cover letter yourself. You will be asked a set of questions such as personal information, work information, travel itinerary, and visa documents, in a simple wizard-like format. After you answer them, you will be able to create your cover letter for visa application which is perfectly formatted for your visa type.

But if you want to write one yourself, you are free to use our sample cover letters and create one for your needs. While drafting it, please keep the following in mind.

• Find out the address of the consulate and address them formally. like Honurable consulate of France.
• Know your trip start dates and end dates along with a plan of what you intent to do that day, like a travel itinerary.
• Mention all the bookings you have made for your travel such as flight tickets, hotel bookings, travel insurance.
• A solid travel reason must be given in brief, at-least 2 or 3 lines will be expected.
• List out all the documents you are going to submit for your trip.
• Finally undersign the cover letter with your details.

Sample cover letter for visa application Template

you can use the sample mentioned below to create your own cover letter.

Or use the below pdf template to draft your letter.

And here is a sample which you can copy and edit directly if you need to on a word document.

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Japan Unioninkatu 20-22, 00130 Helsinki, Finland Apr 2, 2023 Subject: Approval of my Tourist Visa with Japan Consulate Dear Sir/Madam, I would like to visit Japan for tourism between Aug 10, 2023 and Aug 14, 2023 Travel Purpose:   To visit my friends who are staying in Hiroshima and Kyoto and go on a trip to explore the ancient temples of Japan. As Finland citizen, I need to get a Tourist Visa for the same. This would explain the details of my trip and make a case for the issuance of my visa.

• Aug 10, 2023 : Mount Fuji
• Aug 11, 2023 : Imperial Tokyo
• Aug 12, 2023 : Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
• Aug 13, 2023 : Historic Kyoto
• Aug 14, 2023 : The island shrine ofitsukushima, miyajima

I am currently working at To do as Engineer I am the bearer of the expense of this trip. I am following the requirements as mentioned on the Japan consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Australia Tourist Visa application

• Proof of visa fee paid.
• Original and copy of my passport with minimum 6 months validity
• Flight itinerary from an agent . The itinerary will be ticketed once visa is approved.
• Bank statement from my sponsorer for this trip.
• Travel Insurance for the duration of my stay as per visa specifications mentioned on the
• consulate site
• Duly filled visa application form
• My employment contract
• Travel Itinerary during my trip as mentioned above.

I trust you will find that everything is in order. If you need to contact me for further clarification or additional details on my application my details are below.I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Date: Mar 30 ( Kai ) Ph : 25417863900 Email: [email protected]

Format for a cover letter for Visa Application.

When creating a visa letter to the embassy, as shown above a perfect format to follow would be in the below order.

• Address and Date : Include your full name, address, email, and the current date at the top of the letter.
• Embassy/Consulate Information : Include the name and address of the embassy or consulate processing your visa application.
• Subject : Mention the intent of your letter in one line. 
• Salutation : Address the embassy or consulate using “Dear Sir/Madam,” or a specific name or title if available.
• Purpose of Travel : Clearly state the purpose of your travel, whether it’s for tourism, business, or studying abroad.
• Itinerary : Provide a detailed itinerary of your trip, including the dates of travel, duration of stay, and the places you plan to visit.
• Accommodation and Transportation : Provide information about your accommodation and transportation arrangements, including hotel bookings and flight reservations.
• Financial Situation : Demonstrate your financial situation, including how you plan to fund your trip and provide supporting documents such as bank statements or income tax returns.
• Ties to Your Home Country : Emphasize your ties to your home country, such as employment, property ownership, or family responsibilities.
• Intention to Return : Convey your intention to return home after your visit and provide a specific date if possible.
• Conclusion : Thank the embassy or consulate for considering your application and attach any necessary documents, such as a completed visa application form or additional supporting materials.
• Signature : Sign your name in ink above your typed name to finalize the letter.

Cover letter Samples for visa Application

The format of a cover letter depends on the type of visa you are applying for. For instance you will need to give a day-wise breakup of your trip if you are applying for tourist visa, but for student of work visa, it is not necessary. In the following sections, we will show you various formats of cover letter based on on visa types.

Cover letter for Schengen visa Application

Schengen visa is unique as it allows you to apply for one visa to visit 27 countries. So you will need to add the other countries that you are planning to visit in your visa letter to the embassy. You can look at our cover letter for Schengen visa application article to get an in-depth information.

Here is a sample cover letter for Schengen visa

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Germany House, 9th Floor, Hoechst, 193, Backbay Reclamation, Nariman Point, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400021 Sept 20 2022 Subject: Approval of my Schengen Tourist Visa with Germany Consulate

Dear Sir/Madam,

I would like to visit Germany for tourism between Oct 6, 2022 and Oct 13, 2022 I will also be travelling to Spain & Portugal Travel Purpose: I am visiting Germany for my vacations. I intend to backpack from Munich to Salzburg and Hallstatt. I will also be going to Barcelona and Lisbon As Sri Lankan citizen, I need to get a Schengen Tourist Visa for the same.This would explain my trip and provide concrete reasons for the approval of my visa.

• Oct 6, 2022 : Land in Munich from Mumbai & check into my hotel
• Oct 7, 2022 : Visit BMW Weldt and take a stroll around the city.
• Oct 8, 2022 : Take a day tour to visit Bayern Munich stadium and take a tour to see all their trophies won. Travel to Vienna
• Oct 9, 2022 : visit Skywalk and visit some pubs in the night
• Oct 10, 2022 : back to Austria and visit Schonbrunn palace
• Oct 11, 2022 : Take a train from vienna to Lisbon
• Oct 12, 2022 : travel from Lisbon to Barcelona.
• Oct 13, 2022 : fly back toMumbai from Barcelona

I am currently working at Swiggy as Delivery Agent. I am the bearer of all my travel expenses on this trip. I am following the requirements as mentioned on the German consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application:

• Proof of the visa fee paid
• Original and copy of my passport with minimum 6-month validity
• Flight itinerary from an agent. The itinerary will be ticketed once the visa is approved.
• Bank statement from my sponsor for this trip.
• Travel Insurance for the duration of my stay as per visa specifications mentioned on the consulate site

I trust you will find that everything is in order. If you need to contact me for further clarification or additional details on my application my details are below.I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Date: Dec 1, 2022 ( James Matter ) Ph : +85134579449 Email:  [email protected]

Sample Cover letter for tourist visa application

For tourist visa application, you will need to add a day-wise travel itinerary here is a sample article for tourist visa. to know more about cover letter for tourist visa application.

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Singapore 9 Wilton Cres, London SW1X 8SP, United Kingdom Mar 30, 2023

Subject: Approval of my Tourist Visa with Singapore Consulate Dear Sir/Madam, I would like to visit Singapore for tourism between Nov 26, 2023 and Nov 30, 2023 . Travel Purpose:   To explore Sentosa islands and indulge in the culinary delights of Singapore. As United Kingdom citizen, I need to get a Tourist Visa for the same.This would explain the details of my trip and make a case for the issuance of my visa.

• Nov 26, 2023 : Marina Bay
• Nov 27, 2023 : Gardens by the Bay
• Nov 28, 2023 : Sentosa
• Nov 29, 2023 : Universal Studios
• Nov 30, 2023 : Clarke Quay

I am currently working at Swiggy as Delivery Agent. I am the bearer of all my travel expenses on this trip. I am following the requirements as mentioned on the Singapore consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application

I trust you will find that everything is in order. If you need to contact me for further clarification or additional details on my application my details are below.I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Date: Mar 30 ( James Matter ) Ph : +85134579 Email:  james @iicoud.com

Sample cover letter for business visa application

When drafting a cover letter for business visa, it is very important to be clear about the reason for the travel and who is the bearer of the expenses. is an important question to answer. Here is a sample cover letter for business visa purpose. to know more about cover letter for a business visa application

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Germany 9 Wilton Cres, London SW1X 8SP, United Kingdom Mar 30, 2023

Subject: Approval of my Schengen Business Visa with German Consulate Dear Sir/Madam, I would like to visit Germany for business purpose between Apr 26, 2024 and May 30, 2024 . Travel Purpose:   To partner with Ruth company to establish our business ties to build multiple ships from our shipyard in Kerala, India As an Indian citizen, I need to get a business Visa for the same. This travel itinerary would explain the details of my trip and make a case for the issuance of my visa.

• Apr 26, 2024 : Land in Germany
• Apr 27, 2024 : Checkin to my hotel and meet all the directors of Ruth company
• Apr 28, 2024 : Inspect the shipping yard of the conglomerate.
• Apr 29, 2024 : Meeting with the stakeholder in Ruth Company in Wolfsburg
• Apr 30, 2024 : Gather requirements for the trip.
• May 26 2024: Fly back to India

I am currently working at Marketting as Project Manager . I am the bearer of all my travel expenses on this trip. I am following the requirements as mentioned on the Singapore consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application:

I trust you will find that everything is in order. If you need to contact me for further clarification or additional details on my application my details are below.I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Date: Mar 30, 2024 ( James Matter ) Ph : +85134579 Email:  james @iicoud.com

Sample cover letter for visitor visa Application

If you are applying for a visitor visa, then a travel itinerary might not be necessary to be added in your visa letter to the embassy. But more importantly, you will need to mention who is handling the expenses of the trip ? Is it yourself or the sponsor? . To know more about cover letter for visitor visa ,

Cover letter created using FlightGen App Consulate of Italy 56, Richmond Rd, Craig Park Layout, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025 Mar 30, 2023

Subject: Approval of my Schengen Visitor Visa with Italian Consulate Dear Sir/Madam, I would like to visit Italy for visitation purpose between Apr 26, 2024 and May 6, 2024 . Travel Purpose:   To stay with my son who lives in Rome, he is married to an Italian citizen and have a child. I will be going to Italy to spend 10 days with my grand daughter. As an Indian citizen, I need to get a Schengen visitor Visa for the same.

I am currently working at Retired. I am the bearer of all my travel expenses on this trip. I am following the requirements as mentioned on the Singapore consulate website. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my Schengen Tourist Visa application:

• Other proof of means to pay for the trip
• Copy of my Spouse passport who is an EU citizen
• Employment letter with designation and job start date in the EU country
• My host provided an official affidavit from a gazetted office.

I trust you will find that everything is in order. If you need to contact me for further clarification or additional details on my application my details are below.I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Date: Mar 30, 2024 ( Ramani Iyer ) Ph : +91134579933 Email:  [email protected]

What are the other Travel Visa Documents other than Cover Letter?

The important other visa documents other than cover letter are:

Invitation Letter for Visa

NOC letter for Visa

Dummy Ticket / Dummy Flight Ticket

Flight Itinerary

Travel Itinerary

Travel Insurance

Proof of Accommodation / Dummy Hotel Booking

Other articles related to Cover letter for Schengen visa

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Home » Visas » USA Tourist Visa » Cover Letter

Sample Cover Letter for a USA Tourist Visa

<Your Name> <Your Address>

<Date>

American Consulate General <Address of the consulate> 

Dear Sir/Madam, 

Re: Request for a visitor visa to the United States 

I, <parent’s name>, would like to request you to please grant me a Visitor’s Visa to visit the United States of America during <time frame of their visit (like this fall or this spring or this summer, etc.)>. I would definitely come back to India within the allowed time-frame for the following reasons

<Bullet point your reasons and high light any main reasons you might have here>

1. 2. 3. …. ….. ……. 

Once again, I would like to humbly request you to consider my application and grant me a visitor visa. 

Sincerely, <Signature> <Name of your parent>

Note: Important information about sample documents

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Cover Letter for Business Visa

Composing an effective cover letter for your business visa application with expert guidance and free samples.

This article will help you write the perfect business cover letter when applying for a business visa; It will help you understand more about what the embassy requirements are and what to avoid when writing a cover letter.

Read the article below for further information regarding tips on how to write a simple business cover letter!

What is a Business Cover Letter?

A business cover letter is a document regarding your professional background that includes all your essential professional information. A business letter is used as an introduction to the Embassy regarding the business visa you are applying for. By reading a cover letter, the Embassy will have a more detailed representation of you and your visa application purpose.

Note: Applicants who apply for a business visa must submit a business cover letter to the embassy or consulate of the country they are applying to. 

What to Include in a Business Cover Letter?

A detailed and professional business cover letter must contain three important steps:

• Introduction.
• Itinerary of your business trip.
• Conclusion and personal contact information.

Introduction

The first paragraph of your cover letter is one of the most important parts of your business cover letter. The first paragraph must catch the Embassy’s attention, it must give the reader a desire to continue reading your cover letter. The letter must contain information about you, the job position you are applying for, a referring name (if applicable), and information about why you are applying for the specific position.

If you are applying for a business visa just to attend a meeting, or a conference, please be specific about that in the first paragraph of your letter.

Itinerary of Your Business Trip

The second paragraph must be the paragraph in which you must explain in detail your business trip itinerary. The letter must include details, such as;

• How long you plan to stay.
• Information regarding any conference or meeting you will attend (if applicable).
• Any other information about any other place you will visit.
• If you will travel to different cities (include that too).
• The name of the conference you will be attending.
• The company’s name, or the job position you are applying for (if applicable).
• Where you will be staying.
• Details about the nature of the business you will be conducting.

Note: Make sure you add any other information you might want to include which will be convenient for the Embassy!

Conclusion and Personal Contact Information

The third paragraph must be the perfect final touch of your cover letter; this paragraph must contain details about you, such as; where the Embassy can contact you and how you can be contacted.

How do I Write a Simple Business Cover Letter?

Here are a few tips to help you write your cover letter in the most effective way possible when applying for a business visa:

• Open the letter strongly.
• Be kind with your words.
• Be prepared.
• Explain exactly what you will be doing when arriving in the country.
• Let them know that you know a lot about their company and the job position you are applying for.
• Use your words carefully.
• Keep it short and simple.
• Include your keywords.
• Make your letter as customized as possible.
• Use a referring name (if you have any).

Important: One of the most important tips when writing a business cover letter is not to COPY your letter!

Business Cover Letter Samples

The Embassy or Consulate of the country you are applying for may request a business cover letter from you or your employer.

Here is a business cover letter sample if the Embassy requires a letter from you.

December 2022

Finland Embassy in Turkey

Nisbetiye Mah. Aydın Sok. No:6, D.8. 1. Levent, 34340 Beşiktaş/İstanbul Türkiye

Dear Sir/Madam

My name is Denize Doe (passport number: AZ1122244); I am a Turkish citizen who lives in Istanbul, Türkiye, where I work as an It Manager for a company called ITcom.

The reason I am applying for a Finland visa is so that I can attend a very important business conference that the company has organized with one of our partners in Finland. The conference will take place in Helsinki, from December 15, 2022, to December 20, 2022.

During the time I will be in Finland, I will attend the conference from 9 AM to 6 PM, and with the time left, I will try to visit some small tourist attractions near Helsinki. I will also visit my aunt and uncle who live in Helsinki.

This conference is very important to me and my professional journey in this company; I believe that we will learn a lot from this conference, and I will also have the opportunity to meet many colleagues that I haven’t seen in ages.

Thank you so much for your time and the opportunity!

Email: [email protected]

Phone number: +6744554432

Here is a business cover letter sample if the Embassy requires a letter from your employer.

Gaziosmanpaşa, Beyaz Zambaklar Sok. No:44, 06700 Çankaya/Ankara Türkiye

My name is Abdulah Tamir (passport number: AZ66223339); I am a Turkish citizen who lives in, Istanbul, Turkey. I am the manager of an IT company operating in Istambul, Türkiye, called ITcom.

I am writing this letter to confirm that Miss Denize Doe is invited to attend one of our most important conferences that will be taking place in Helsinki, Finland, from December 15, 2022, to December 20, 2022.

Miss Denize is one of our managers here in Istanbul, she is a very important person in our company. I believe that her attendance at the conference will have a great impact on our company since she will be able to learn a lot and apply the acquired knowledge and experience to our company.

Thank you so much for your time!

Abdulah Tamir

Phone number: +67778882

What To Avoid When Writing a Business Cover Letter to the Embassy

Avoid these common mistakes when writing a business cover letter to the Embassy:

• Don’t mention something negative about the Embassy, or the job.
• Avoid long sentences.
• Do not be overly formal.
• Be informed.
• Do not brag.
• Make sure you write your sentences correctly.
• Do not give a lot of personal information.
• Do not repeat the same information.
• Do not be rude.
• Do not forget important information.

How to Write an Application Letter (Sample Included!)

Whether you’re applying for a job , internship , scholarship, or volunteer position, a well-crafted application letter can help you stand out. It's your chance to introduce yourself and make a strong first impression that sets you apart from the competition.

But how do you write an application letter that’s effective? Below, we’ll explain when to use this method of introduction and give you practical tips on writing one that gets results. Plus, we've included a sample application letter and a template to help you create the perfect document for any opportunity.

Apply for the role of your dreams! One of these open jobs on The Muse could be the perfect fit »

What is an application letter?

An application letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience. It's a crucial part of an application for work as it introduces you to potential employers and highlights your qualifications.

While some companies request it at the beginning of the application process, others might ask for it later, or not at all—but it's always a valuable addition.

Unlike a resume, which outlines your work history, a written application allows you to elaborate on your achievements and how they relate to the job you are applying for. It is a much more specific way to introduce yourself and explain why you would be a good fit for the job.

How is an application letter different from a cover letter?

Some people use the terms “application letter” and “cover letter” interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the two.

An application letter serves as your formal introduction to a potential employer. It highlights your interest in the role, your qualifications, and why you're a good fit for the position. It's a standalone document that provides a comprehensive overview of your skills and experiences.

On the other hand, a cover letter is usually more concise than an application letter and serves as a complementary document to your resume, providing additional context to your job application. It elaborates on specific points from your resume and explains how your background aligns with the job requirements.

Also, job application letters follow a more formal structure, often resembling a traditional business letter. They include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top. An application letter is usually addressed to a specific individual, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. While cover letters also have a professional tone, they can be less formal in structure.

Finally, the application letter is used primarily for job applications, internship applications, scholarship applications, and volunteer positions. In contrast, the cover letter is specifically used to accompany a resume during job applications.

When do you need to send an application letter?

Application letters are typically required when applying for jobs. However, there are other scenarios where you might need one:

• Scholarship applications: When applying for scholarships, this kind of letter can help you stand out by showcasing your academic achievements and career goals .
• Volunteer positions: Some volunteer organizations require an application letter to understand your motivations and skills relevant to the position.
• Internship applications: Internships often require this document to understand your interest in the role and what you hope to gain from the experience.
• Networking purposes: Sending one when reaching out to potential mentors or industry professionals can help you establish a connection and explain your career aspirations.

7 tips on how to write a job application letter

Writing an effective application letter involves more than just summarizing your resume. Here are seven tips to write yours:

1. Research the company—at least do a quick Google search!

Before you start writing, research the company to understand its culture, values, and needs. Tailor your letter to align with the company’s mission and the job description. There is nothing better for an HR professional than feeling that you don’t just want any job; you want to work with them for specific reasons, such as X and Y.

“Address the letter to the hiring manager by name if possible,” says Mike Chappell, CEO of FormsPal , who has more than a decade of experience reviewing application letters. “This shows that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the company.”

2. Use a professional format and design

Your application letter should follow a formal letter of application format. Use a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. Include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top of the letter.

There are many layouts online that you can use. Find one that represents your style and complements your resume.

3. Make it engaging from the start with a strong opening

Your opening paragraph should grab the reader’s attention. Mention the position you're applying for and where you found the job listing. If you were referred by someone, include their name. Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you’re interested in the role.

4. Highlight your qualifications—what you can’t fully convey in your resume

In the body of your applicant letter, highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. “Use specific examples to showcase your accomplishments and how they relate to the job you’re applying for,” Chappell says. “ Quantifiable results can make a strong impact.”

Avoid repeating information from your resume; instead, expand on your most relevant experiences.

5. Show enthusiasm and genuine interest

Employers want to hire candidates who are enthusiastic about the role and the company. Show your excitement for the opportunity. Explain why you are specifically interested in this job and how it aligns with your career goals.

6. Keep it concise

While it’s important to provide enough detail, your application letter should be concise. Aim for one page, with three to four paragraphs. Be clear and to the point, avoiding unnecessary fluff.

7. Proofread carefully

Typos and grammatical errors can leave a negative impression on employers. Carefully proofread your letter before sending it. Consider asking another person to review it as well.

Letter of application sample

Here's a super complete example of application letter to help you get started:

August 1, 2024

Ms. Jane Doe

Hiring Manager

Innovative Solutions Inc.

456 Maple Avenue

Springfield, IL 62705

Dear Ms. Doe,

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at Innovative Solutions Inc., as advertised on your company’s careers page. With more than five years of experience in marketing and a proven track record of successful campaigns, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive impactful marketing strategies.

In my previous role as a Senior Marketing Specialist at Creative Solutions LLC, I led a team in developing and executing a comprehensive marketing strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My responsibilities included overseeing digital marketing campaigns, analyzing market trends, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with overall business goals. This experience has honed my skills in strategic planning, data analysis, and team leadership.

I am particularly impressed by Innovative Solutions Inc.’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver innovative marketing solutions. Your recent campaign, which utilized artificial intelligence to optimize ad targeting, is a testament to your forward-thinking approach. I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing and campaign management to your team and contribute to similar groundbreaking projects.

My strong analytical skills, combined with my ability to lead and inspire a team, make me a great fit for this role. I am confident that my background and enthusiasm for innovative marketing strategies align well with the needs of Innovative Solutions Inc.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences can contribute to the continued success of Innovative Solutions Inc.

123 Elm Street

Springfield, IL 62704

[email protected]

(555) 123-4567

Template for an application letter

You can also use the following application format to structure your application letter for a job:

[Recipient’s name]

[Company’s name]

[Company’s address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job title] position at [Company name] as advertised on [Where you found the job listing]. With my background in [Field or industry] and a passion for [Specific aspect of the job or industry], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

In my previous role at [Previous company], I developed [Specific skills or achievements]. I successfully [Describe a project or responsibility], which resulted in [Quantifiable result or achievement]. This experience has equipped me with [Relevant skills] that I am eager to bring to [Company name].

I am particularly impressed by [Company name]’s commitment to [Specific company initiative or value], and I am enthusiastic about the prospect of working with a team that values [Related value or skill]. I am confident that my skills and experiences align well with the requirements of the [Job title] position.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to the success of [Company Name].

[Your Name]

[Your address]

[Your email address]

[Your phone number]

Common mistakes to avoid

When writing a letter of application for employment, be aware of these common mistakes:

• Being too generic: Focus your letter on the specific job and company, and mention detailed information about them. Don’t default to a one-size-fits-all approach or AI-written document. “It is generally best to avoid using generative AI to write your application letters for you,” says Edward Tian, CEO of AI detector GPTZero . “Only you can write about those specific aspects of your identity and experiences in such a personal way.”
• Focusing too much on yourself: While it’s important to highlight your qualifications, make sure to explain how you can benefit the company. “You can talk about your career goals, college classes that piqued your interest in the type of job you're applying to—just make sure that they tie into why they make you uniquely qualified or well-positioned for the job,” Tian says.
• Including irrelevant information: Avoid discussing unrelated jobs or hobbies, for example.
• Using a casual tone: Maintain a professional tone throughout your letter. Avoid slang or overly casual language.

Need a bit more guidance in your job search? Read this next: How to Apply for a Job Online: 10 Tips to Stand Out and Land an Interview

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Frequently Asked Questions About Keeping Families Together

ALERT: On Aug. 19, 2024, DHS posted for public inspection a Federal Register notice implementing the Keeping Families Together process for certain noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens. Additional information on eligibility criteria, the application process, and examples of required documentation is available on the  Keeping Families Together page, this FAQ page, and in the Federal Register notice .

Q. What is Keeping Families Together?

A. Keeping Families Together is a process that allows certain noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to apply for parole in place to enable them to apply for lawful permanent resident status without having to be separated from their families by leaving the United States for processing. Parole is an exercise of DHS’s discretionary authority under section 212(d)(5)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to allow certain noncitizen “applicants for admission” to be present in the United States on a temporary, case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit. The INA defines an “applicant for admission,” in relevant part, as a noncitizen “present in the United States who has not been admitted.” Noncitizens who are present in the United States without admission or parole may be considered for parole in place under this process because they remain “applicants for admission.” Parole in place is available only for noncitizens who are present in the United States. Those who receive parole are eligible to apply for work authorization for the period of parole

Q. Which form should I file to apply for Keeping Families Together? Can I file online?

A. Requestors (the noncitizen spouse or stepchild) must file Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens , under this process. The form can only be filed online. Paper-based applications sent to USCIS by mail will be rejected (not accepted or receipted). We have created a  Filing Guide for Form I-131F (PDF, 8.95 MB) to help individuals as they prepare to file a request for parole in place through the online process.

Q. What fee is required to file a request under Keeping Families Together (Form I-131F)?   Can I obtain a fee waiver or fee exemption for this process?

A. The fee to apply is $580. No fee waivers or fee exemptions are available for this process at this time.

Q. Someone told me if I pay them a fee, they can expedite my Form I-131F or guarantee that it will be approved. Is this true?

A. No. While an attorney or accredited representative may charge a fee to prepare your request, anyone who guarantees faster processing or a positive outcome by USCIS if you pay them a fee may be trying to scam you. Visit our  Avoid Scams  page to learn how you can protect yourself from immigration scams.

Please also remember that USCIS will begin accepting requests for this process on Aug. 19, 2024. Any filings received before this date will be rejected by USCIS (not accepted or receipted) .

Q. If my Keeping Families Together request is granted, how long will my parole period last?

A. In general, if you are granted parole as a noncitizen spouse or noncitizen stepchild of a U.S. citizen under this process, your parole period will be valid as of the date USCIS approves your Form I-131F and will expire 3 years from that date. However, parole terminates automatically if you depart the United States. Parole may also be terminated at any time in DHS’s discretion upon a determination that parole is no longer warranted, for example, following the commission of criminal conduct.

As long as your parole remains valid (that is, is not expired or terminated), you will be considered in a period of authorized stay. As a parolee, you may apply for any immigration status for which you may be otherwise eligible, including adjustment of status to that of a lawful permanent resident.

Q. What are the eligibility criteria for Keeping Families Together?

A. To be considered for this process as a noncitizen spouse of a U.S. citizen, you must:

• Be present in the United States without admission or parole;
• Have been continuously physically present in the United States since at least June 17, 2014, through the date of filing your request;
• Have a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024;
• Have no disqualifying criminal history and otherwise not deemed to be a threat to public safety, national security, or border security; and
• Submit biometrics and undergo required background checks and national security and public safety vetting.

To be considered for this process as a noncitizen stepchild of a U.S. citizen, you must:

• Have been under the age of 21 and unmarried on June 17, 2024;
• Have been continuously physically present in the United States since at least June 17, 2024, through the date of filing your request;
• Have a noncitizen parent who entered into a legally valid marriage with a U.S. citizen on or before June 17, 2024, and before your 18th birthday;
• Have no disqualifying criminal history and otherwise not deemed to be a threat to public safety, national security, or border security*; and

*NOTE:  Consistent with the Sept. 30, 2021,  Guidelines for the Enforcement of Civil Immigration Law (PDF) , a noncitizen who poses a threat to border security will be generally disqualified from receiving parole in place pursuant to this process. However, there is an exception for stepchildren who entered the United States unlawfully after Nov. 1, 2020, and who otherwise meet the criteria for parole in place under this process.

All such requests for parole in place are considered on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit, in the exercise of discretion, taking into account the totality of the circumstances of each individual request.

Q. If I meet the criteria listed above, will I be guaranteed to have my Form I-131F approved under this process?

A. No. All requests under this process are considered on a case-by-case basis in the exercise of discretion, taking into account the totality of the circumstances of each individual request and evaluating whether parole is warranted as a matter of discretion for significant public benefit or urgent humanitarian reasons.

Q. If I entered the United States on a nonimmigrant visa or was admitted in another status and overstayed, am I eligible for Keeping Families Together?

A. No. Parole in place is only available to an “applicant for admission,” which the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) defines, in relevant part, as a noncitizen “present in the United States who has not been admitted.” This means that noncitizens who were last admitted on valid nonimmigrant visas or were admitted in another status but have remained in the United States beyond their authorized period of stay cannot request parole in place under this process. However, a noncitizen who was previously “inspected and admitted” to the United States may be eligible under the law to apply for adjustment of status as an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, if they are the beneficiary of an approved immigrant visa petition. For more information, please visit the  Adjustment of Status webpage.

Q. I have already departed the United States for an immigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. Can I make a request for Keeping Families Together?

A. No. This process is only available to noncitizens who are present in the United States without admission or parole. Noncitizens who have already departed the United States may be eligible for consular processing abroad.

Q. I have Deferred Action under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Am I eligible to make a request for Keeping Families Together?

A. If you are a current DACA recipient or TPS beneficiary, you may request parole in place under this process if you are currently present in the United States without admission or parole and you are otherwise eligible. However, if you previously departed the United States and re-entered with a TPS Travel Authorization Document or an Advance Parole Document, you are not eligible for parole in place under this process because you have already been admitted or paroled into the United States.

If you are in a valid period of parole at the time your DACA renewal request is adjudicated, USCIS will deny your DACA renewal request as a matter of discretion.

Q. I once had Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or Temporary Protected Status (TPS), but my DACA or TPS has lapsed. Am I eligible to make a request for Keeping Families Together?

A. If your DACA or TPS has lapsed, you may request parole in place under this process if you are currently present in the United States without admission or parole. However, if you previously departed the United States and re-entered with a TPS Travel Authorization Document or an Advance Parole Document, you are not eligible for parole in place under this process because you have already been admitted or paroled into the United States.

If you submit a DACA renewal request while in a valid period of parole or are in a valid period of parole at the time your DACA renewal request is adjudicated, USCIS will deny your DACA renewal request as a matter of discretion.

Q. Will I be able to request re-parole (a new period of parole) and renew my employment authorization when the duration of my parole under Keeping Families Together ends?

A. DHS is not planning a re-parole process. If you do not apply for adjustment of status or receive another immigration status before your period of parole expires, you may begin to accrue or resume accruing  unlawful presence . Any parole-based employment authorization granted by USCIS (category (c)(11)) will also generally expire at the same time your parole period expires.

However, if you file for adjustment of status, you may request employment authorization on the basis of your pending adjustment application, Form I-485 (category (c)(9)). If approved, you can receive employment authorization with a five-year validity date under category (c)(9). If your parole under this process is granted, you should not delay in filing their subsequent I-130 petition and I-485 application.

Q. How do I make a request under Keeping Families Together?

A. You (the noncitizen spouse or stepchild) must submit Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens , online with the applicable filing fee of $580. You may not file for this process using a paper form. Any paper filing received by USCIS will be rejected (not accepted or receipted) and you will have to file again to have your request considered.

You must submit with your online request documentation establishing that you meet all eligibility criteria and evidence of any additional factors you would like USCIS to consider. Each requestor, including stepchildren, must have their own USCIS online account to prepare and file the Form I-131F individually.

A parent or legal guardian may create an online account for their minor child if the purpose is to submit a form on behalf of the minor. If a parent or legal guardian is not available, a primary caregiver or legal assistance provider may also help a child create their own USCIS online account.

For information on creating a USCIS online account, visit our  How to Create a USCIS Online Account page .

Q. Is there a deadline after which USCIS will no longer accept requests for Keeping Families Together?

A. There is no filing deadline for this process.

Q. What evidence can I submit to show my continuous physical presence in the United States since June 17, 2014 (if I am the spouse of a U.S. citizen), or since June 17, 2024 (if I am the stepchild of a U.S. citizen)?

A. If you are making a request for this process as the spouse of a U.S. citizen, you must submit documentation that shows you have been continuously physically present in the United States from June 17, 2014, up until the time of filing your request, to meet the continuous physical presence requirement.

If you are the stepchild of a U.S. citizen, you must submit documentation that shows you have been continuously physically present in the United States from June 17, 2024, until the time of filing your request.

You should provide documentation to account for as much of the period as reasonably possible, but there is no requirement that every day or month of that period be specifically accounted for through direct evidence.

It is helpful to submit evidence of your physical presence during at least each year of the required period. We will review the documentation in its totality to determine whether you have established by a preponderance of the evidence that you were continuously physically present in the United States for the required period.

If gaps in your documentation raise questions about whether you were continuously physically present in the United States for the required period, we may issue, at our discretion, a Request for Evidence to allow you to submit additional documentation that supports your claimed continuous physical presence.

Q. What evidence can I submit to show I merit a favorable exercise of discretion for this process?

A. Our decision whether to grant your request is a discretionary, case-by-case determination. Even if you establish that you have met all the criteria for eligibility, we will examine the totality of the circumstances in your individual case to determine whether your request should be granted based on a significant public benefit or urgent humanitarian reasons and whether you merit a favorable exercise of discretion based on a review of all positive and negative factors present in your case. If there are negative factors that outweigh the positive factors presented by the evidence, we may deny your request. If you have a final unexecuted removal order or non-disqualifying criminal history, you may provide additional documentation that you believe demonstrates that you merit a favorable exercise of discretion. Such documentation may relate to, but is not limited to:

• Community ties;
• Your particular vulnerability related to advanced or young age;
• Length of presence in the United States;
• Existence of a mental or physical condition or illness requiring care or treatment in the United States;
• Your status as a parent or caregiver of a U.S. citizen child, or elderly parent or in-law;
• Your status as a caregiver for an individual with disabilities, including a U.S. citizen parent, in-law, or sibling;
• Your status as a victim or witness of a crime, or civil rights violation, or labor rights violation under investigation by a labor agency;
• Effect on other family members, including family members who are U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents; or
• Other positive factors about which you wish to provide information.

This is a non-exhaustive list of factors; we may consider any relevant factors in the discretionary analysis, including mitigating factors that relate to the specific criminal conduct or prior removal order at issue.

Q. Will USCIS verify documents or statements I provide to support my request?

A. USCIS has the authority to verify documents, facts, and statements provided to support immigration requests, including requests under this process. We may contact relatives, educational institutions, other government agencies, or other entities to verify information. In addition, USCIS will conduct background and security checks. If USCIS determines you have made a material misrepresentation or engaged in fraud as part of your request, your request will be denied, and you may be ineligible or inadmissible for other immigration benefits in the future. You may also be subject to criminal prosecution.

Q. Am I required to demonstrate that I am not inadmissible in order to qualify for this process?

A. No. Parole is neither an admission to the United States nor a determination of admissibility. As a result, requestors do not need to demonstrate that they are not inadmissible as part of this process. However, USCIS may consider facts and circumstances that may give rise to one’s inadmissibility in making the case-by-case discretionary parole determination, and requestors who subsequently apply for adjustment of status will be evaluated for admissibility at that stage.

Q. Will I be subject to the public charge ground of inadmissibility when I request parole in place?

A. No. Parole is neither an admission to the United States nor a determination of admissibility. As a result, requestors do not need to demonstrate that they are not inadmissible under the public charge ground of inadmissibility as part of this process. However, requestors who subsequently apply for adjustment of status will be evaluated for admissibility, including the public charge ground of inadmissibility, at that stage.

Q. Will the information I share in my Keeping Families Together request be used for immigration enforcement purposes?

A. DHS generally will not use information contained in a request under this process for the purpose of initiating immigration enforcement action, unless DHS determines, in its discretion, that you pose a threat to national security, public safety, or border security.

This process does not preclude DHS from, in its discretionary authority, taking enforcement actions in accordance with the INA and consistent with governing policies and practices, against noncitizens who may be eligible or who have pending requests for parole under this process.

DHS may disclose information in the request to national security and/or law enforcement agencies, including ICE and CBP, for purposes other than initiation of immigration enforcement proceedings. These purposes include assistance in the consideration of parole, identification or prevention of fraudulent claims, investigation of a possible national security threat, investigation or prosecution of a criminal offense, or as otherwise needed, consistent with statutory authorities, obligations, and restrictions, as well as governing privacy and information-sharing policies.

Q. If my request is pending and I am encountered by CBP or ICE, will I be placed into removal proceedings?

A. The Sept. 30, 2021,  Guidelines for the Enforcement of Civil Immigration Law (PDF)   direct DHS to focus its limited resources on noncitizens who pose a threat to our national security, public safety, or border security.

Those  guidelines  remain in effect. Filing a request under this process, or eligibility to file a request for parole in place under this process, does not prevent CBP or ICE from taking enforcement action against an individual when otherwise appropriate under applicable law and policy.

Q. If USCIS denies my request, will I be placed in removal proceedings?

A. If we deny your request under this process, we generally will not issue a Notice to Appear (NTA) or refer your case to ICE for possible enforcement action solely based on our denial. USCIS maintains discretion to issue an NTA or refer the case to ICE for possible enforcement action consistent with governing policies and practices, including initiating immigration enforcement proceedings based on a threat to national security, public safety or border security*.

* NOTE : Consistent with the Sept. 30, 2021,  Guidelines for the Enforcement of Civil Immigration Law (PDF) , a noncitizen who poses a threat to border security will be generally disqualified from receiving parole in place pursuant to this process. However, there is an exception for stepchildren who entered the United States unlawfully after Nov. 1, 2020, and who otherwise meet the criteria for parole in place under this process.

Q. What is considered a legally valid marriage?

A. USCIS will generally recognize a marriage as valid for purposes of Keeping Families Together if it is legally valid in the place where the marriage was celebrated, the parties to the marriage were legally free to marry, and the marriage is not contrary to the public policy of the United States or of the state where the couple resides.

The place of celebration is generally where the ceremony took place or where the officiant of the ceremony was located and where the marriage certificate was issued. Even if a marriage is valid in the place of celebration, there are circumstances where USCIS may not recognize a marriage relationship as valid for the purposes of this process, consistent with existing case law and policies for family-based immigrant visa petitions and other benefits.

Examples of the types of marital relationships that USCIS generally will not recognize for the purposes of this process include, but are not limited to:

• Civil unions, domestic partnerships, or other relationships that do not confer the same legal rights and responsibilities to the parties as a marriage recognized by a civil authority;
• Marriages that are contrary to public policy in the United States; and
• Marriages where one or both parties to the marriage are not legally free to marry or have not given consent to the marriage.

Q. Are common law marriages considered legally valid marriages for purposes of Keeping Families Together?

A. USCIS recognizes common law marriages in adjudicating immigration benefits in certain circumstances and will similarly recognize them for purposes of Keeping Families Together if:

• The parties live in a jurisdiction that recognizes common law marriages;
• The parties meet the qualifications for common law marriage for that jurisdiction;
• The marriage is valid and recognized by the jurisdiction in which the marriage was established; and
• The marriage was established on or before June 17, 2024.

If you live in a different state than where you entered into your marriage, you may still be eligible. Some states may recognize a common law marriage contracted in another state even if the recognizing state does not accept common law marriage as a means for its own residents to contract marriage.

If you are requesting parole in place under Keeping Families Together on the basis of a common law marriage, you should submit a copy of the statute, regulation, or case law that states the requirements in that jurisdiction for establishing a common law marriage. You should also submit evidence that demonstrates you met the requirements in the jurisdiction for establishing a common law marriage on or before June 17, 2024. USCIS will review the laws of the relevant jurisdiction on common law marriages and the evidence you submit to determine whether you and your spouse should be considered to be married for purposes of this process and when the marriage was established.

Q. If my U.S. citizen spouse has died, am I still eligible for Keeping Families Together?

A. If your U.S. citizen spouse has died and you have not remarried, you may still be eligible for the Keeping Families Together process. However, to be eligible for immigrant visa petition approval and eligible to apply to adjust status as a widow(er) of a U.S. citizen, you must meet other eligibility requirements. For more information, see FAQ under “Eligibility for Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjustment of Status” below.

Q. What are the age requirements to be eligible for Keeping Families Together as a stepchild?

A. To be considered for this process as a stepchild of a U.S. citizen, you must have been under 21 and unmarried as of June 17, 2024. In addition, the legally valid marriage between your noncitizen parent and your U.S. citizen stepparent must have occurred on or before June 17, 2024, and before your 18th birthday.

Q. I was under 21 and unmarried as of June 17, 2024, and am the stepchild of a U.S. citizen. Am I eligible for Keeping Families Together?

A. Yes, if you meet all other criteria. You may be eligible for this process if, as of June 17, 2024, you were under age 21, unmarried, and met the definition of a stepchild under INA 101(b)(1)(B), including being under the age of 18 at the time of your parent’s marriage to your U.S. citizen stepparent. If you pursue adjustment of status, USCIS will determine whether, at the time of the Form I-130 filing, you met the INA definition of a child or of a son or daughter of a U.S. citizen. For more information on family-based immigration processes, please refer to  USCIS resources .

Q. If I am a stepchild of a U.S. citizen, do I have to file my own individual request?

A. Yes. You must file your own Form I-131F, pay the $580 filing fee, and submit documentation establishing you meet the criteria for this process. Parents or legal guardians may sign and submit a request on behalf of a minor child under the age of 14. Children may also sign a request for themselves. If a parent is filling out the information on behalf of their child, the parent must include their information in the “preparer” section of Form I-131F.

Q. If I am making a request for this process as the stepchild of a U.S. citizen, must I have at least 10 years of continuous physical presence?

A. No. As a stepchild of a U.S. citizen, you must demonstrate continuous physical presence in the United States since at least June 17, 2024, through the date of filing. You are not required to demonstrate that you have been continuously physically present for 10 years before June 17, 2024.

Q. I am the stepchild of a U.S. citizen, and my noncitizen parent or U.S. citizen stepparent is deceased. Am I eligible under Keeping Families Together?

A. You may be eligible for this process if your noncitizen parent or U.S. citizen stepparent is deceased. However, a grant of parole does not guarantee eligibility for immigrant visa petition approval or adjustment of status.

Q. If I am granted parole in place under Keeping Families Together as a stepchild of a U.S. citizen, what will happen to me if my parent and U.S. citizen stepparent divorce before I am able to apply to adjust my status (before my parole period ends)?

A. If your noncitizen parent and U.S. citizen stepparent divorce, you may continue to be eligible as an immigrant petition beneficiary and for adjustment of status if your stepparent demonstrates an ongoing bona fide parent-child relationship to you. This might include evidence that you and your stepparent reside together or that your stepparent provides financial and emotional support for your care.

Q. Do brief departures from the United States interrupt the continuous physical presence threshold criterion? Also, if I am granted parole, will a brief, casual, and innocent absence from the United States affect my eligibility for adjustment of status?

A. No. A brief, casual, and innocent absence from the United States will not interrupt your continuous physical presence in the United States during the required period for the purpose of Keeping Families Together. For the purpose of this process, a brief, casual, and innocent absence means an absence from the United States that took place prior to June 17, 2024, and:

• The absence was short and reasonably calculated to accomplish the purpose for the absence;
• The absence was not because of a departure under an order of exclusion, deportation, or removal;
• The absence was not because of an order of voluntary departure, or an administrative grant of voluntary departure before you were placed in exclusion, deportation, or removal proceedings;
• The purpose of the absence and your actions while outside the United States were not contrary to law; and
• You are not a threat to border security (apprehended while attempting to unlawfully enter the United States on/after Nov. 1, 2020, or apprehended in the United States after unlawfully entering after Nov. 1, 2020). See DHS’s Sept. 30, 2021,  Guidelines for the Enforcement of Civil Immigration Law (PDF) .

However, to be eligible for adjustment of status, you must be admissible to the United States. If you were unlawfully present in the United States before your departure and absence from the United States, you may be inadmissible to the United States under INA section 212(a)(9)(B) or (C) and ineligible for adjustment of status under INA section 245(a), even after a grant of parole in place, depending on certain factual circumstances, including how long you were unlawfully present in the United States before your departure and whether you departed after being ordered removed from the United States. If you were removed or departed the United States under an outstanding order of exclusion, deportation, or removal and subsequently reentered without being admitted or paroled, USCIS will not grant you parole in place under Keeping Families Together, regardless of the date of your removal, departure, or reentry.

More information concerning unlawful presence is available on the  USCIS website , including information about the availability of a waiver for inadmissibility under INA section 212(a)(9)(B) or consent to reapply for admission after spending 10 years outside the United States for inadmissibility under INA section 212(a)(9)(C). Determining if you are inadmissible after accruing unlawful presence can be complex. If you need help or legal advice on immigration matters, make sure the person helping you is authorized to give legal advice. You can find information about authorized legal services on our  Avoid Scams  page.

CAUTION:  If you need to travel during your parole period or while your adjustment of status application is pending, please carefully review the “Travel” section of these FAQs below , which refers to obtaining an Advance Parole document prior to departing the United States.

Q. I am currently in removal proceedings. Am I eligible for Keeping Families Together?

A. Yes. If you are otherwise eligible for parole in place under this process, including that you are present in the United States without admission or parole, USCIS will consider your request if you are currently in removal proceedings before an immigration judge (also called INA Section 240 proceedings), including if your case is on appeal before the Board of Immigration Appeals, or if you have a case that is administratively closed. This includes if you were released on bond or on your own recognizance.

However, USCIS will consider any relevant information related to your removal proceedings, and any other relevant factors, in determining whether to grant parole in place as a matter of discretion. If you constitute an enforcement priority based on national security, public safety, or border security* concerns/issues, USCIS will deny your request for parole in place under this process.

* NOTE:  Consistent with the Sept. 30, 2021,  Guidelines for the Enforcement of Civil Immigration Law (PDF) , a noncitizen who poses a threat to border security will be generally disqualified from receiving parole in place pursuant to this process. However, there is an exception for stepchildren who entered the United States unlawfully after Nov. 1, 2020, and who otherwise meet the criteria for parole in place under this process. 

Q. How do I find out if I am in removal proceedings or have a removal order?

A. If you do not know if you have a removal order or are currently in immigration proceedings, you can use your A-Number to look up your immigration court case status at  https://acis.eoir.justice.gov/en/ . You can also call the EOIR hotline: 800-898-7180 / 304-625-2050 / TDD: 800-828-1120. ‘A-Number” refers to the immigration file number provided to you by U.S. immigration officials. It is an eight or nine-digit number that begins with an “A” and can be found on correspondence you have received from DHS or USCIS or on immigration court records.

Q. I have a final removal order but have not departed or been removed from the United States or have not departed after a grant of voluntary departure. Am I eligible for the Keeping Families Together process?

A. You may request parole in place under Keeping Families Together if you otherwise meet the criteria, but if you have a final removal order and have not departed the United States after the entry of that order, or have not been removed from the United States—sometimes called an “unexecuted” removal order (including a removal order that resulted from failure to depart after a grant of voluntary departure)—you are subject to a rebuttable presumption of ineligibility for this process.

Q. If my removal proceedings were administratively closed, am I eligible for Keeping Families Together?

A. Yes. USCIS may grant your parole in place request, if you otherwise meet the eligibility criteria and merit a favorable exercise of discretion. However, to apply for adjustment of status, you may need to seek re-calendaring, termination, or dismissal of your removal proceedings, depending on your circumstances.

Q. I was removed from the United States with a final order of removal and reentered without being admitted or paroled. Am I eligible for parole in place under Keeping Families Together?

A. No. If you were removed or departed the United States under an outstanding order of exclusion, deportation, or removal and subsequently reentered without being admitted or paroled, USCIS will not grant you parole in place under Keeping Families Together, regardless of the date of your removal, departure, or reentry.

Q. What factors will USCIS consider in determining whether I have rebutted the presumption of ineligibility for parole in place because I have a final unexecuted removal order?

A. USCIS will evaluate, in the exercise of its discretion on a case-by-case basis, all positive and negative factors presented in your case, including the facts and circumstances underlying the unexecuted final removal order, in determining whether you overcome the presumption of ineligibility and be granted parole in place. Examples of information that may be relevant to overcoming the presumption of ineligibility include, but are not limited to:

• Lack of proper notice;
• Your age when the removal order was issued;
• Lack of counsel, ineffective assistance of counsel or being a victim of fraud in connection with immigration representation;
• Language access issues;
• Status as a victim of domestic violence;
• A physical or mental condition requiring care or treatment;
• Other extenuating personal factors, such as requestor’s limited resources (for example, a lack of housing that would have affected the requestor’s ability to appear);
• Other mitigating factors.

Q. I was granted parole in place under this process but am in removal proceedings before an immigration judge or the Board of Immigration Appeals or had my removal proceedings administratively closed. Can I apply for adjustment of status to that of a lawful permanent resident with USCIS?

A. Not immediately. If you want to file for adjustment of status with USCIS, you must ask the immigration judge to first terminate or dismiss your removal proceedings. Even if USCIS grants you parole in place, the immigration court generally retains sole jurisdiction over your application for adjustment of status (Form I-485) as long as you remain in removal proceedings, including if your removal proceedings were administratively closed.

If you are in INA section 240 proceedings, you should contact the appropriate local ICE Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA) field office where your removal case is located and provide information about your approved parole request. Contact information for local ICE OPLA field offices for prosecutorial discretion requests is available in the “OFL Email Addresses for PD Requests” section under “Additional Information” on the Doyle Memorandum: Frequently Asked Questions and Additional Instructions | ICE page. You may request that ICE OPLA work with you, at their discretion, to jointly request that the court terminate or dismiss your removal proceedings, or if your case is administratively closed, to request that the court re-calendar and then terminate or dismiss your removal proceedings.

Q. I was granted parole in place under Keeping Families Together but have a final unexecuted removal order issued by an immigration judge or the Board of Immigration Appeals. Can I apply for adjustment of status to that of lawful permanent resident before USCIS?

A. No. USCIS generally will not have jurisdiction to adjudicate your application for adjustment of status (Form I-485), unless your removal proceedings are first reopened and terminated or dismissed by an immigration judge.

If you have a final unexecuted removal order, you may  contact ICE OPLA to request that they work with you, at their discretion, to jointly submit a motion asking the immigration court to reopen and terminate or dismiss your removal proceedings.

Q. What impact does having a criminal conviction have on eligibility for this process?

A. All felony offenses will be disqualifying under this process. Convictions for the following offenses are also disqualifying regardless of whether the conviction was a felony or misdemeanor. DHS reserves its discretion to determine that other offenses are disqualifying, even if not listed.

• Murder, torture, rape, or sexual abuse;
• Offenses involving firearms, explosive materials, or destructive devices;
• Engaging in activities relating to peonage, slavery, involuntary servitude, and trafficking in persons;
• Aggravated assault;
• Offenses relating to child pornography, sexual abuse or exploitation of minors, or solicitation of minors;
• Domestic violence, stalking, child abuse, child neglect, or child abandonment; and
• Controlled substance offenses (other than simple possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana).

All other criminal convictions not listed above, excluding minor traffic offenses, will result in a presumption of ineligibility for this process. To overcome the presumption of ineligibility, you must provide documentation demonstrating positive factors that can be considered in overcoming this presumption and showing that you warrant a favorable exercise of discretion. You should include copies of arrest records and certified court dispositions for each arrest or criminal charge, as well as evidence that you completed your sentence, if applicable.

Even if you establish that you have met all the criteria for eligibility, and have rebutted the presumption of ineligibility, USCIS will examine the totality of the circumstances to determine whether your request should be granted as a matter of discretion for significant public benefit or urgent humanitarian reasons.

Q. If I have a conviction for a felony offense, am I eligible for this process?

A. No. If you have been convicted of a felony offense, you are not eligible for this process, and we will deny your request.

Q. What offenses qualify as felonies?

A. A felony is a federal, state, or local criminal offense punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. A single conviction for a felony offense is disqualifying for purposes of this process.

Q. I have pending criminal charges. Am I eligible for this process while the charges remain pending?

A. No. If you have been charged with any criminal offense and the charges remain pending, we will deny your request and not refund your filing fee. You may make a request for this process once your charges are resolved. However, if your criminal charges result in a conviction, and you are convicted of a crime that renders you ineligible for this process, your request will be denied. If your charges result in a conviction and the conviction does not render you ineligible for this process, the conviction will result in a rebuttable presumption of ineligibility, which may be overcome by demonstrating positive factors that outweigh the negative factors in your case.

You should include copies of arrest records and certified court dispositions for each arrest or criminal charge, as well as evidence that you completed your sentence, if applicable. USCIS will weigh the seriousness of the conviction against the positive factors and any other relevant information in each individual case. We will consider all criminal history in determining whether you merit a favorable exercise of discretion under this process.

Q. What qualifies as a national security, public safety, or border security concern?

A. If the background check or other information uncovered during the review of your request indicates that you pose a public safety, national security, or border security concern, we will not grant your parole request. Indicators of national security concerns include, but are not limited to, participation in activities that threaten the United States. Indicators of public safety concerns include, but are not limited to, serious criminal conduct and criminal history. Indicators of border security concerns include apprehension following entry into the United States without authorization on or after Nov. 1, 2020; however, stepchildren who otherwise meet the eligibility criteria will not be disqualified if they entered on or after Nov. 1, 2020.

Q. Are dismissed, expunged, vacated, pardoned, deferred, annulled, invalidated, withheld, or sealed convictions subject to the presumption of ineligibility?

A. Yes. Convictions that were, for example, dismissed, expunged, vacated, pardoned, deferred, annulled, invalidated, withheld, or sealed will still create a presumption of ineligibility for purposes of this process, even if they may no longer constitute convictions for immigration purposes. You may be able to overcome this presumption, however, depending on the specific facts of your case, including but not limited to the fact that the conviction was expunged or vacated under state law, the reasons for the expungement or vacatur, the nature of the underlying offense, your age at the time of the commission of the underlying offense, and any other relevant facts surrounding the original conviction. In addition, USCIS may consider your entire criminal history, if any, along with other facts to determine, whether, under the totality of the circumstances, a favorable exercise of discretion is warranted.

NOTE : If you were never convicted (for example, you were only arrested), you are not subject to the presumption of ineligibility.

Q. If I have a criminal conviction that makes me presumptively ineligible for Keeping Families Together, how can I overcome that presumption?

A. The presumption may be rebutted on a case-by-case basis by providing evidence that demonstrates positive and mitigating factors that overcome the presumption. USCIS will weigh the seriousness of the conviction against mitigating factors relating to the conviction as well as other positive factors that suggest you merit a favorable exercise of discretion. The weight of the presumption will be guided by the nature and seriousness of the conviction. A less serious conviction, or a conviction that does not indicate you are a public safety concern, will carry less weight and can be more easily rebutted. In adjudicating parole in place requests on an individualized, case-by-case basis, the nature and seriousness of the conviction will determine the evidence needed to overcome it.

You should submit a detailed statement explaining the circumstances of the conviction, any mitigating factors, and any positive factors you want USCIS to consider and any other evidence you think may support your case. USCIS may request additional evidence from you if the evidence you submit initially is not sufficient to overcome the presumption of ineligibility. Examples of factors we will consider in determining whether the presumption of ineligibility based on a criminal conviction can be overcome – such as the age and nature of the conviction, as well as positive factors about the requestor – are described below.

Q. What factors will USCIS consider to determine whether I have overcome the presumption of ineligibility because of a criminal conviction?

A. Factors that can be considered in overcoming the presumption of ineligibility due to a criminal conviction may include, but are not limited to:

• Age of the conviction(s) (remoteness in time);
• Your age at the time of the offense and conviction, including whether you were a juvenile at the time of the offense;
• Sentence or penalty imposed;
• Evidence of subsequent rehabilitation;
• Nature of the conviction, including whether the conduct at issue was non-violent;
• Whether the conviction was an isolated offense when considered against the rest of your history, if any (including consideration of whether multiple criminal convictions were on the same date and may have arisen out of the same act, omission or scheme of conduct);
• Existence of a mental or physical condition that may have contributed to the criminal conduct;
• Your particular vulnerability, including any physical or mental condition requiring treatment or care in the United States;
• Your status as a victim of criminal activity, including domestic violence, particularly if related to the criminal conduct at issue;
• Your status, or that of your U.S. citizen spouse, as a current or former member of the U.S. military;
• Your status as the primary caregiver for a U.S. citizen child or elderly U.S. citizen parent or in-law;
• Your good character, such as property ties, business ties, or value and service to the community; or
• Other factors USCIS considers in its exercise of discretion.

Q. If I have a misdemeanor conviction for driving without a license, or driving with an expired license, will it make me ineligible for this process?

A. No. Misdemeanor convictions for minor traffic offenses, including driving without a license or driving with an expired license, will not make you ineligible for this process or create a presumption of ineligibility.

Q. Are juvenile delinquency dispositions subject to the presumption of ineligibility?

A. Yes. Juvenile delinquency dispositions will create a presumption of ineligibility for purposes of this process, even if they do not constitute convictions for immigration purposes. However, the factors considered when determining whether the presumption has been overcome, such as the nature of the underlying offense, your age at the time of the commission of the underlying offense, the length of time that has passed since the adjudication, and any other relevant facts surrounding the offense may be especially relevant in such cases. In addition, we may consider your entire criminal history, if any, along with other positive factors to determine, whether, under the totality of the circumstances, a favorable exercise of discretion is warranted.

If you cannot provide the record of the disposition because it is sealed or because State law prohibits its disclosure (even to you), USCIS still may request a statement or other information from you to determine whether the presumption has been overcome and a favorable exercise of discretion is otherwise warranted.

Q. Will USCIS conduct a background check when reviewing my request?

A. Yes. USCIS will conduct biographic and biometric background checks as part of its consideration of your request.

Q. What do background checks involve?

A. You must submit biometrics at an application support center (ASC), and USCIS will conduct background and security checks. Following your submission of your request, USCIS will send you a notification via your myUSCIS account that explains when and where to appear for your biometrics collection appointment.  You must print your biometric services appointment notice and bring it with you to your appointment.   If you are unable to attend the appointment, you can reschedule using our online rescheduling request process. For more information, see the Preparing for Your Biometric Services Appointment page and  Vol. 1, Part C, Chapter 2 – Biometrics Collection  in the USCIS Policy manual. 

Q. Can I appeal USCIS denial of my request under Keeping Families Together?

A. No. You cannot appeal the decision if we deny your parole in place request. However, you can file a new request, with new or additional evidence demonstrating your eligibility for parole in place, with the accompanying $580 filing fee.

Q. Can I file a motion to reopen or reconsider USCIS denial of my request under Keeping Families Together?

A. No. You cannot file a motion to reopen or reconsider the denial of your parole in place request under Keeping Families Together. However, you can file a new request, with new or additional evidence demonstrating your eligibility for parole in place, with the accompanying $580 filing fee.

Q. What will I receive if USCIS approves my request under Keeping Families Together?

A. If USCIS approves your parole in place request, you will receive a Form I-797, Approval Notice, that indicates the grant and validity period of parole in place. It will also include a copy of your Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, and Form I-94 number.

Q. If my request for Keeping Families Together is approved, will I accrue unlawful presence?

A. No. If you are granted parole in place under Keeping Families Together, you are in a period of authorized stay, which means you do not accrue unlawful presence while your parole remains valid (that is, not expired or terminated). Importantly, however, if you receive parole in place under Keeping Families Together, it does not erase any unlawful presence accrued  before  the start of your parole period. Furthermore, a pending request for parole in place does not stop the accrual of unlawful presence.

If your parole expires or is otherwise terminated, you will begin accruing  unlawful presence  unless you are maintaining or obtain another status during the parole period. Parole may be terminated at any time in DHS’s discretion upon a determination that parole is no longer warranted, for example, following the commission of criminal conduct. It is recommended that you apply for lawful permanent resident status as soon as possible after obtaining parole in place under this process. For more information on applying for lawful permanent resident status, please visit the  How to Apply for a Green Card webpage.

Q. If USCIS does not grant my request, will I be placed in removal proceedings?

A. If we deny your request for parole in place, we will generally not issue a Notice to Appear (NTA) or refer your case to ICE for possible enforcement action solely based on the denial, unless DHS is initiating immigration enforcement proceedings against you because you are considered a priority under the Sept. 30, 2021,  Guidelines for the Enforcement of Civil Immigration Law (PDF)   as a threat to national security, public safety, or border security.*

* NOTE:  Consistent with these guidelines, a noncitizen who poses a threat to border security will be generally disqualified from receiving parole in place pursuant to this process. However, there is an exception for stepchildren who entered the United States unlawfully after Nov. 1, 2020, and who otherwise meet the criteria for parole in place under this process.

Q. What happens if my request under Keeping Families Together is granted, but I do not apply for or receive adjustment of status during my parole period?

A. When the parole period terminates, a noncitizen returns to the same immigration status or category that they maintained before the parole in place, if any (unless that status or category has since expired or terminated), and their case will be dealt with in the same manner as any other applicant for admission, unless they obtained another immigration status or category during the parole period that is still valid beyond the parole end date. As stated above, DHS is not contemplating a re-parole process.

Q. I have a pending Form I-601A, Application for Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver. Can I still make a request under Keeping Families Together?

A. Yes, you may make a request for this process while you have a pending Form I-601A. If you are granted parole in place under this process, you may then be eligible to apply for adjustment of status to that of lawful permanent resident by filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, in the United States without first seeking a provisional unlawful presence waiver. If your Form I-131F request is granted and you then apply for adjustment of status with USCIS, you will no longer be eligible for a provisional unlawful presence waiver, and we will deny your Form I-601A.

Q. What will happen with my pending Form I-601A if I file a request under Keeping Families Together?

A. Your Form I-601A will remain pending and will be adjudicated in the normal course. We will not refund the fee you paid for Form I-601A if you file a request for parole in place under this process. In addition, note that if your parole in place is granted and you apply to adjust status to that of a lawful permanent resident (Form I-485), you will no longer be eligible for a provisional unlawful presence waiver, and we will deny your Form I-601A.

Q. My Form I-601A was approved, but I have not left the United States to attend a consular interview yet. May I make a request under Keeping Families Together?

A. Yes. If you are present in the United States without admission or parole, are otherwise eligible for this process, and merit a favorable exercise of discretion, we may approve your request even though we already approved your Form I-601A.

Q. I previously filed a Form I-601A and now am filing a Form I-131F. Do I have to pay the Form I-131F fee?

A. Yes. You must pay the $580 fee for the Form I-131F, even if you previously filed a Form I-601A.

Q. I previously filed a Form I-601A. Will you prioritize consideration of my Form I-131F?

A. USCIS may prioritize your Form I-131F if you have a pending or approved Form I-601A and you include your Form I-601A receipt number on your Form I-131F request. For this reason, you should make sure to include your Form I-601A receipt number on your Form I-131F.

NOTE:  For your case to be identified and potentially prioritized, you must ensure that all biographic information on Form I-131F, including your name, exactly match the information you provided on the Form I-601A you previously filed.

Q. I have a pending Form I-601A. What happens to that request if my request under Keeping Families Together is granted?

A. Your Form I-601A will remain pending and will be adjudicated in turn. However, one of the eligibility requirements for the Form I-601A is that you do not have a pending application for lawful permanent residence with USCIS. Therefore, if you are granted parole in place and file for adjustment of status with USCIS, your pending Form I-601A will be denied.

Q. If I am granted parole in place under Keeping Families Together and no longer need a provisional unlawful presence waiver, will USCIS refund the filing fee for my Form I-601A?

A. No. Keeping Families Together is voluntary and requires payment of the requisite fee even if you have filed a Form I-601A. Filing fees are final and non-refundable, regardless of any action we take on your application, petition, or request, or if you withdraw your request.

Q. If my request under Keeping Families Together is denied, does this affect the decision on my pending Form I-601A?

A. No. The denial of a request for parole in place does not affect the adjudication of the Form I-601A, but the reasons that led to the denial of a parole in place request may also affect eligibility for a provisional unlawful presence waiver, including the determination of whether you merit a favorable exercise of discretion.

Q. If my request under Keeping Families Together is denied, can I still file a Form I-601A?

A. Yes. Form I-601A has different eligibility requirements than parole in place. A denial of parole in place does not make you ineligible for a provisional unlawful presence waiver; however, you should review the reasons for the denial of your parole in place request to determine if any of those reasons also make you ineligible for a provisional unlawful presence waiver.

Q. If my request for Keeping Families Together is granted, will I be eligible to request employment authorization?

A. Yes. If USCIS approves your request for Keeping Families Together, you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by filing  Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization , under eligibility category (c)(11). You can only apply for employment authorization after your Keeping Families Together request is approved. If you file your Form I-765 Employment application before USCIS approves your I-131F request under this process, USCIS will reject or deny your Form I-765.

Q. Will there be a fee to apply for employment authorization (Form I-765)?

A. Yes. If you file online through your myUSCIS account, the filing fee for Form I-765 is $470. If filing on paper and sending by mail, the filing fee for  Form I-765 is $520. If you would like to request a fee waiver, you must file your Form I-765 by mail and your filing must include a completed  Form I-912 or a written request for a fee waiver with supporting evidence of your financial inability to pay the fee. At present, you cannot request a fee waiver if you file your Form I-765 online.

Please visit our  Request for Fee Waiver webpage for additional information, guidance and tips on fee waiver requests. You can also review the  Form G-1055 for a complete fee schedule.

Q. Can I file my Form I-131F at the same time (concurrently) as an application for employment authorization (Form I-765)?

A. No, at this time, you must submit these two forms separately. If your Form I-131F is approved and you are granted parole in place, you can then file Form I-765 to apply for an EAD based on your authorized period of parole.

Q. How long will I be authorized for employment?

A. If your request for this process is approved and you are later granted an employment authorization document (EAD) under eligibility category (c)(11), your EAD will generally be valid for the same duration as your parole period, which can be up to three years under this process. Once you apply for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident, you will then be eligible to apply for employment authorization pending adjudicating of your adjustment application under eligibility category (c)(9). You can receive employment authorization with a five-year validity under category (c)(9). If your parole under this process is granted, you should not delay in filing a subsequent I-130 petition and I-485 application.

Q. What should I do if my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) was lost, stolen, or damaged?

A. If your parole period is currently valid, and you need to replace a valid EAD because yours was lost, stolen, or damaged, please review the “Replace an EAD” section on the  Employment Authorization Document page.

NOTE: Do not  file Form I-131F with this replacement Form I-765. If you submit Form I-131F when you are filing to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged EAD, we will deny your Form I-I31F, and we will not refund the filing fee for Form I-131F.

Q. As an employer, if I provide my employee with information regarding their employment to support a request for parole in place, will that information be used for immigration enforcement purposes against me or my company?

A. An employer may, as they determine appropriate, provide individuals requesting parole in place under this process with documentation verifying their employment. This information will not be shared with ICE for civil immigration enforcement purposes under section 274A of the Immigration and Nationality Act (relating to unlawful employment of noncitizens), except in cases involving unscrupulous employers who exploit undocumented workers by engaging in illegal acts ranging from the payment of substandard wages to imposing unsafe working conditions and facilitating human trafficking and child exploitation, and who therefore may be a DHS worksite enforcement priority as described in the Oct. 12, 2021 memorandum entitled “ Worksite Enforcement: The Strategy to Protect the American Labor Market, the Conditions of the American Worksite, and the Dignity of the Individual .”

Q. How can I tell if an employer is discriminating against me because I am a parolee?

A. An employer may be engaging in discrimination if they:

• Demand that an employee only show specific documents from the  Lists of Acceptable Documents or ask for more or different documents than are required to complete  Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, or create an  E-Verify case; or
• Reject documents from the  Lists of Acceptable Documents  that reasonably appear to be genuine and relate to the employee, including documentation showing employment authorization because it has a future expiration date or because of an employee’s prior unauthorized status.

The Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice has an office dedicated to ensuring that employers do not discriminate against individuals who are permitted to work in the United States. These include parolees who have been granted work authorization. If you think your employer may be discriminating against you, contact the Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER) at 800-255-7688 (TDD for the deaf and hard of hearing: 800-237-2515).

Q. What happens to my employment authorization if USCIS terminates my parole before it expires?

A. If USCIS terminates your grant of parole, there will no longer be a basis for your parole-based employment authorization. USCIS may therefore revoke your employment authorization.

Q. Can I file a family-based petition (Form I-130) at the same time as my parole in place request (Form I-131F)?

A. Each form must be filed separately with their own fees, but there is no requirement to wait to file a Form I-130. The Form I-131F may only be filed online, whereas the Form I-130 may be filed online or on paper by regular mail. The timing in which you file a Form I-130 will not affect the adjudication time of your Form I-131F.

Q. USCIS granted my request under Keeping Families Together. Does my U.S. citizen spouse or stepparent need to file Form I-130 for me so that I am able to apply to adjust to lawful permanent resident status?

A. Yes, unless your U.S. citizen spouse or stepparent has already filed a Form I-130 on your behalf. To be eligible for lawful permanent resident status on the basis of your marriage or stepchild relationship to a U.S. citizen, you must have an approved Form I-130. If you requested parole as the stepchild of a U.S. citizen, you must have a separate Form I-130 filed on your behalf.

Q. What are the requirements for my U.S. citizen spouse to file Form I-130?

A. In addition to having a legally valid marriage that is valid in the place of celebration, and that is not contrary to the public policy of the United States or state in which you and your spouse reside, your petitioning U.S. citizen spouse must demonstrate that your marriage is bona fide and was not entered into for the primary purpose of seeking an immigration benefit. For additional information on requirements and filing procedures for Form I-130, please see our  Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative page.

Q. What are the requirements for my U.S. citizen stepparent to file Form I-130?

A. To be a beneficiary of a Form I-130 as a stepchild, and eligible to apply to adjust status, the child’s stepparent must demonstrate that their marriage to the child’s noncitizen parent was bona fide. For additional information on requirements and filing procedures for Form I-130, please see our  Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative page.

Q. What additional documents can I provide to demonstrate that my marriage is bona fide for purposes of the Form I-130?

A. At the time of filing the Form I-130, your U.S. citizen spouse, as the Form I-130 petitioner, will need to provide evidence that your marriage is bona fide. Such evidence may include but is not limited to:

• Documentation showing joint ownership of property or evidence that you and your spouse reside together;
• Documentation showing that you and your spouse have shared financial resources;
• Birth certificates of children born to you and your spouse;
• Affidavits from others who have personal knowledge of your marriage; and
• Any other documentation to establish that there is an ongoing marital union.

Additionally, your marriage must not be contrary to the public policy of the United States or state where you and your spouse reside.

Q. What are the requirements for widow(er)s and what do I file?

A. If you are a  widow(er) , you must have a pending or approved Form I-130 filed prior to your spouse’s death, which will be converted to a  Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant . If a Form I-130 was not already filed on your behalf, you may file a Form I-360 petition as a self-petitioner but must do so within two years of your spouse’s death. You also must not have been legally separated from your spouse at the time of death and you must not remarry prior to the adjudication of your Form I-360.

Q. Can I apply for adjustment of status (Form I-485) concurrently with my Keeping Families Together request (Form I-131F)?

A. No. You must first be granted parole in place before applying for adjustment of status.

Q. If USCIS grants my request under Keeping Families Together, does this mean I will be eligible to adjust my status to that of a lawful permanent resident (LPR)?

A. This process does not change the eligibility criteria for LPR status but provides an opportunity for eligible noncitizen spouses and children of U.S. citizens to adjust their status under existing legal authorities without having to depart the United States to seek an immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. To qualify for adjustment of status under  INA 245(a) , an applicant must prove that they have been inspected and admitted or paroled into the United States, among other requirements. A grant of parole in place will satisfy the parole requirement under INA 245(a). Eligibility for  Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status , and any related forms that might be required, including  Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility , will be determined on their own merits in a distinct and separate process from the parole in place decision.

Q. If my request under Keeping Families Together is granted, am I subject to the “3- and 10-year unlawful presence bars” and the “permanent bar”?

A. If you are granted parole in place under this process and subsequently apply for adjustment of status, you will be evaluated for admissibility at that stage. For more information about how unlawful presence impacts the determination of inadmissibility, please visit  Unlawful Presence and Inadmissibility .

Determining if you are inadmissible after accruing unlawful presence can be complex. If you need help or legal advice on immigration matters, make sure the person helping you is authorized to give legal advice. You can find information about authorized legal services on our  Avoid Scams  page.

Q. If I have previously worked in the United States without employment authorization, am I ineligible for adjustment of status under INA section 245(c)(2) and 245(c)(8)?

A. The bars to adjustment of status at INA section 245(c)(2) and INA section 245(c)(8), which are related to accepting or engaging in unauthorized employment, generally do not apply to noncitizens seeking adjustment of status based on an approved Form I-130 as an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen. Spouses and children of U.S. citizens are considered immediate relatives under the INA.

Q. If my request under Keeping Families Together is granted, what will happen to me if my spouse passes away before I am able to apply to adjust my status (before my parole period ends)?

A. If your U.S. citizen spouse has died, you may still be eligible for  adjustment of status if you meet the eligibility requirements. To qualify, you must not have been legally separated from your spouse at the time of death and you must not remarry before USCIS adjudicates your adjustment application.

If you qualify as a widow(er), and you have a pending or approved Form I-130 filed before your spouse’s death, it will be automatically converted to a Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant.

If a Form I-130 was not already filed on your behalf, you may file a Form I-360 as a self-petitioner, but you must do so within two years of your spouse’s death.

Q. If my request under Keeping Families Together is granted, what will happen to me if my spouse and I divorce before I am able to apply to adjust my status (before my parole period ends)?

A. Generally, you will be ineligible to adjust status as the spouse of a U.S. citizen if you and your spouse divorce before you apply to adjust status. To be eligible for immigrant petition approval or to adjust status as the spouse of a U.S. citizen, you must still be married to your spouse at the time of application and final adjudication.

Q. If my request under Keeping Families Together is granted, will I be subject to the public charge ground of inadmissibility when I apply to adjust status to that of a lawful permanent resident?

A. If you apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident after you are granted parole under this process, you must demonstrate that you are not inadmissible under the public charge ground of inadmissibility at INA 212(a)(4) (unless you are exempt from the public charge ground of inadmissibility), as well as the other grounds of inadmissibility in INA section 212.

For more detailed information on the public charge ground of inadmissibility, please refer to  USCIS Public Charge Resources, as well as  USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 8, Part G, Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility .

Q. If my request under the Keeping Families Together is granted, can I travel outside the United States during my period of parole?

A. A grant of parole in place through Keeping Families Together does not authorize parole back into the United States if you decide to depart. If you depart the United States after being granted parole in place, your period of parole will automatically terminate. If you depart the United States without first obtaining an Advance Parole Document, you run a significant risk of not being able to return to the United States and you may also be ineligible for future immigration benefits.

CAUTION: Travel outside of the United States, even with advance parole, may have severe immigration-related consequences, including with respect to potential inadmissibility or execution of an outstanding order of removal. Parole into the United States is not guaranteed even if you have been granted advance parole prior to leaving the country. You are still subject to immigration inspection at a U.S. port of entry to determine whether you may be paroled into the United States and whether you are eligible for the immigration status you seek. For further information, see  Travel Documents | USCIS . Consultation with a qualified attorney or accredited representative is strongly advised prior to any travel outside of the United States.