This family member letter of support for immigration is intended for close relatives preparing a formal statement supporting a family member’s immigration application. It follows a professional format recognized by immigration authorities and organizes key details clearly and respectfully. The template can be customized by inserting personalized information or reviewed as a reference when preparing a custom letter that meets common expectations for immigration support documents.
How to Write This Letter
This section guides you through completing each part of the letter of support in a way that maintains professionalism and strengthens the credibility of your support. Complete each part thoughtfully using real examples drawn from your direct experiences with the applicant.
From
Begin the letter by entering your full legal name, complete mailing address, and the current date.
Providing full contact information at the start of the letter signals transparency and ensures immigration officers have a direct way to reach you if necessary. Use your current legal information, even if you and the applicant do not reside at the same address.
To
Formally address the letter to the “Honorable Immigration Judge” or the relevant immigration agency processing the application. Follow this with a subject line that identifies the purpose of the letter, such as:
Subject: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Name] — Family Relationship Support
Using formal addressing ensures the letter is taken seriously and directed appropriately. If the specific agency name is unknown, using a general but respectful salutation is acceptable.
Introduction
Open the letter by introducing yourself and describing your relationship to the applicant.
Specify how long you have known them and the nature of your bond (e.g., sibling, parent, cousin). This establishes your personal connection and frames your perspective for the immigration officer.
Example:
“I am writing this letter in support of my brother, Daniel Adams, for his immigration application. I have known Daniel my entire life and can personally attest to his character, responsibility, and dedication to family.”
Body Paragraphs
The body of the letter should provide detailed, firsthand insights into the applicant’s character, family ties, and community contributions. Focus your observations on areas such as:
- Personal attributes that reflect good moral character (e.g., honesty, kindness, reliability)
- The applicant’s role within the family and emotional ties that demonstrate strong support networks
- Participation in volunteer work, religious communities, or local organizations, if applicable
- Specific examples of meaningful actions, such as assisting family members during emergencies, mentoring younger relatives, or contributing positively to community projects
When selecting examples, choose experiences you personally witnessed, rather than secondhand information. Focus on meaningful interactions that show long-term commitment, responsibility, and family integration.
For instance:
“Daniel has been a steady presence within our family, often coordinating support during times of illness and actively volunteering at community events organized through our local church.”
Including specific dates, locations, and contexts where possible strengthens the credibility of your account. Avoid vague descriptions; focus instead on actions and behaviors that immigration officers can easily understand as signs of reliability and strong community ties.
If the applicant has emotional or financial support available from family members already living in the United States, mentioning this can further strengthen their case.
Summarize
Summarize your endorsement of the applicant by affirming their positive character and emphasizing your confidence that they will continue contributing positively to the community.
Keep this section concise while reinforcing the points made earlier.
Example:
“Based on my personal experience and close relationship with Daniel, I fully believe he will continue to be a valuable, contributing member of the community.”
Offer your willingness to be contacted for additional information, which adds to the credibility and openness of your support.
Formal Closing
Conclude the letter with a respectful sign-off such as:
Sincerely,
Respectfully,
After the closing, sign your name (if submitting a printed version) and type your full name beneath the signature. Optionally, repeat your contact information at the end to ensure accessibility.
Best Practices for Writing This Letter
- Focus on firsthand knowledge: Share only what you have directly observed or experienced with the applicant.
- Maintain a professional and factual tone: Use respectful language without emotional exaggeration.
- Mention family support networks where relevant: Emotional or financial support can show the applicant’s stability.
- Provide clear, specific examples: Concrete experiences are more persuasive than general statements.
- Proofread carefully: Check that names, addresses, and dates are correct and consistent throughout the letter.
Whenever possible, tie your observations to real dates, locations, and family events. Concrete details make the letter stronger and more persuasive to immigration authorities.
FAQs
No. Only include information about community activities if you have firsthand knowledge. Focus primarily on the applicant’s character and family role.
Yes. Submitting several letters from different relatives or acquaintances can present a fuller picture of the applicant’s support system. However, consult the applicant’s legal representative for specific guidance.
Not typically. Unless immigration authorities or legal counsel specifically request notarization, it is considered optional. It can, however, add a level of formality if desired.
