What Is an Immigration Letter of Support?
An immigration letter of support, also known as a character reference letter or affidavit of support, is a document written by a friend, family member, employer, or community member on behalf of an individual who is applying for immigration benefits. These letters serve as personal testimony to the applicant's character, relationships, community involvement, and the potential hardship that may result from denial of their application.
Immigration letters of support are used in a variety of immigration proceedings, including applications for green cards, visa petitions, asylum cases, cancellation of removal proceedings, and naturalization applications. When written by a family member, these letters carry particular weight because they demonstrate the close personal bonds and family ties that are central to many immigration decisions.
The importance of a well-crafted letter of support cannot be overstated. Immigration officers and judges review hundreds of cases, and a heartfelt, detailed, and well-organized letter can make the difference between approval and denial. The letter should paint a vivid picture of who the applicant is as a person, their contributions to their family and community, and why their presence in the country is important.
Key Components of an Effective Support Letter
A strong immigration letter of support should include several essential components. First, it must clearly identify the writer, including their full legal name, address, phone number, and their relationship to the applicant. The writer should also state their own immigration or citizenship status, as this establishes their credibility and standing.
Second, the letter should explain the nature and duration of the relationship between the writer and the applicant. Specific details are important here. Rather than simply stating that you are the applicant's sibling, describe your shared experiences, how often you interact, and the depth of your bond. For example, you might mention that you and your sibling grew up together, that you speak on the phone daily, that they helped you through a difficult time, or that they play an active role in your children's lives.
Third, the letter should address the applicant's character and moral qualities. Provide specific examples of their kindness, work ethic, honesty, community involvement, or other positive traits. Immigration officials are looking for evidence that the applicant is a person of good moral character who will be a positive contributor to society.
Fourth, if applicable, the letter should describe the hardship that would result if the applicant's case is denied. This is particularly important in cases involving cancellation of removal or waivers of inadmissibility. Be specific about the emotional, financial, medical, or educational impact on family members, especially any U.S. citizen or permanent resident relatives.
Formatting and Style Guidelines
The format and style of your immigration letter of support matter more than you might think. The letter should be typed on standard letter-size paper (8.5 x 11 inches) and printed on clean, white paper. Use a professional, easy-to-read font such as Times New Roman or Arial in 12-point size. The letter should be single-spaced with double spacing between paragraphs.
Begin with the date and the address of the relevant immigration office or court. If you are unsure of the specific address, you can address the letter to "To Whom It May Concern" or "Honorable Immigration Judge." Include a subject line that references the applicant's full name and, if known, their case number or alien registration number (A-number).
The letter should be written in the first person and maintain a respectful, sincere tone throughout. Avoid exaggeration, as immigration officials are experienced at identifying inflated claims. Instead, focus on specific, truthful examples that illustrate the points you are making. The letter should be between one and three pages in length. Longer is not necessarily better; clarity and specificity are more important than volume.
Close the letter with a formal statement declaring that the information provided is true and correct to the best of your knowledge. Include the statement "I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct." Sign and date the letter, and have it notarized if possible, as this adds credibility and legal weight to the document.
Sample Letter Template for a Family Member
Below is a comprehensive sample immigration letter of support written by a sibling on behalf of their brother. This template can be adapted for various family relationships and immigration proceedings.
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
[Office Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Re: Letter of Support for [Applicant's Full Name]
Case Number: [If Applicable]
Dear Sir or Madam,
My name is [Your Full Name], and I am writing this letter in support of my brother, [Applicant's Full Name], who is applying for [specific immigration benefit, e.g., adjustment of status, cancellation of removal, etc.]. I am a [United States citizen / lawful permanent resident] residing in [City, State]. I have known [Applicant's Name] for his entire life, as he is my [younger/older] brother.
[Applicant's Name] and I grew up together in [City/Country]. From a young age, he demonstrated remarkable qualities of compassion, responsibility, and determination. When our family faced financial difficulties during our childhood, [Applicant's Name] took on additional responsibilities, helping our parents with household tasks and assisting younger siblings with their schoolwork.
Since [Applicant's Name] came to the United States in [year], he has been an exemplary member of our community. He is employed as a [job title] at [employer name], where he is known for his dedication and strong work ethic. He regularly volunteers at [organization or church name], where he [specific volunteer activities]. He has never been in any trouble with the law and is respected by everyone who knows him.
[Applicant's Name] is also a devoted family member. He is the father of [number] children, [names and ages], who are all United States citizens. He is actively involved in their education and upbringing, attending school events, helping with homework, and coaching their youth sports teams. His wife, [spouse's name], relies on him both emotionally and financially. If [Applicant's Name] were forced to leave the United States, his children would lose their father's daily presence, guidance, and financial support. The emotional and psychological impact on his children would be devastating.
Furthermore, [Applicant's Name] provides significant financial support to our family. He contributes to our elderly mother's medical expenses and helps pay for [specific expenses]. Without his support, our family would face severe financial hardship.
I sincerely and respectfully ask that you approve [Applicant's Name]'s application. He is a good person, a loving father, a supportive brother, and a contributing member of our community. His presence in the United States is essential to the well-being of his family.
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
Respectfully,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Date]
Tips for Writing a More Compelling Letter
While the template above provides a solid foundation, there are several ways to make your letter even more compelling. First, include specific anecdotes that illustrate the applicant's character. Instead of simply saying they are hardworking, describe a specific instance where they went above and beyond at work or in the community. Stories are memorable and make a stronger impression than general statements.
Second, address the applicant's ties to the United States specifically. Immigration officials want to see evidence that the applicant has established roots in this country. Mention their length of residence, property ownership, business involvement, community participation, church membership, and other indicators of integration.
Third, if relevant, discuss the conditions in the applicant's home country and why return would be particularly difficult. This is especially important in asylum cases and cases involving waivers of inadmissibility. Be factual and specific about any dangers, lack of economic opportunity, or other challenges the applicant would face.
Fourth, consider including supporting documentation with your letter. Photographs of the applicant with family members, copies of community service awards, letters from employers, school records, and medical records can all corroborate the claims made in your letter and strengthen the overall case.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When writing an immigration letter of support, there are several common mistakes that can undermine the effectiveness of your letter. Avoid being too vague or generic. A letter that could apply to anyone is not helpful. Make sure your letter includes specific details unique to your relationship with the applicant and their individual circumstances.
Do not include false or exaggerated information. Immigration officials and judges are experienced professionals who can identify inconsistencies and inaccuracies. Making false statements in an immigration document is a federal offense and can result in criminal charges for both the writer and the applicant.
Avoid discussing the legal merits of the case or making legal arguments. Your letter should focus on personal testimony and character evidence, not legal analysis. Leave the legal arguments to the applicant's attorney. Also, do not use the letter to criticize immigration policies or express political opinions. While you may have strong feelings about immigration, the letter is not the appropriate forum for political commentary.
Different Types of Immigration Cases Requiring Support Letters
Support letters are valuable in many different types of immigration cases. In family-based visa petitions, letters help establish the genuineness of family relationships. In cancellation of removal cases, letters help demonstrate the exceptional and extremely unusual hardship that would result from the applicant's deportation. In asylum cases, letters can corroborate the applicant's claims of persecution and provide character evidence.
In naturalization applications, letters can attest to the applicant's good moral character and community involvement. In VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) cases, letters can help establish the abuse suffered by the applicant and their need for immigration protection. In each of these contexts, the letter should be tailored to address the specific legal requirements of the case while maintaining the personal, testimonial nature that makes support letters effective.
Conclusion
Writing an immigration letter of support for a family member is both a privilege and a responsibility. Your words have the power to influence the outcome of a life-changing decision. By following the guidelines and template provided in this guide, you can craft a letter that is clear, compelling, and effective. Remember to be specific, honest, and heartfelt in your writing, and to focus on the unique qualities and circumstances that make your family member deserving of a favorable decision.
