Free Letter of Support for Immigration (Template & Sample)
Writing a letter to support someone’s immigration case? Download a free, ready-to-use template with a sample structure, then notarize it online if you want the added credibility. Enter your email to get it.
A letter of support for immigration is a personal letter written on behalf of someone in an immigration case, vouching for their good character, their ties to family and community, and why they deserve favorable consideration. It is commonly written by a family member, friend, employer, or community member, and submitted with the person’s application or presented in immigration court.
When you write one
- Supporting a family member’s green card or citizenship case
- Vouching for a friend or coworker
- Cases in removal (deportation) proceedings or a bond hearing
- Any time someone asks for a character or support letter for immigration
What to include
- Who you are and your immigration status (citizen, resident, etc.)
- Your relationship to the person and how long you have known them
- Their character, honesty, and reliability, with specific examples
- Their contributions to family, work, and community
- The hardship their family would face, and a clear request for favorable consideration
- Your signature, date, and contact information
Does it need to be notarized?
No, USCIS does not require it. A signed, dated letter with your real contact information is what carries weight. That said, many people choose to notarize their letter to add credibility, and it is more common for cases in removal proceedings, at bond hearings, or where other documentation is thin. It is optional, and if you want it, we make it quick.
Frequently asked questions
Can I write a letter of support for a family member?
Yes, family letters are among the most common and effective, see our sample for a family member.
Can I write one for a friend?
Yes, see our sample for a friend.
How do I make it stronger?
Be specific and personal, and read how to write a letter of support for immigration.
More free notarizable templates
This template and page are for general informational purposes and are not legal advice. USCIS does not require these letters to be notarized; notarization is optional. For advice on an immigration case, consult a licensed immigration attorney. After you download, you will be connected with our online notary partner if you choose to notarize; NotarEase NYC may earn a referral credit at no extra cost to you.