Immigration proceedings can be stressful, and sometimes, a kind word or positive character reference can make all the difference. Here, we provide several examples of character reference letters for immigration purposes that readers can edit as needed.
Example 1: Letter of Support for Citizenship
Dear Immigration Officer,
I am writing this letter to express my support for [Name]’s citizenship application. I have known [Name] for [number] of years, and he/she has always been a kind and honest person. [Name] is a hardworking and responsible citizen who has always contributed positively to our community.
As an employer of [Name], I can attest to his/her work ethic and commitment to excellence. [Name] has consistently shown a willingness to learn and grow in his/her professional role. He/she is a valuable member of our team.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Letter of Support for Asylum
Dear Immigration Officer,
I am writing this letter to express my support for [Name]’s application for asylum. I have had the privilege of knowing [Name] for [number] of years, and I can attest to his/her character and integrity. [Name] has always been a kind, compassionate, and honest person.
As a witness to [Name]’s experience in [home country], I can confirm that he/she has suffered persecution and would face a high risk of harm if returned to [home country]. I believe that [Name] would make a positive contribution to our community and would be a valuable addition to our country.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Letter of Support for U-Visa
Dear Immigration Officer,
I am writing this letter to express my support for [Name]’s application for a U-Visa. I have known [Name] for [number] of years, and I can attest to his/her honesty, integrity, and good moral character.
[Name] is a victim of a serious crime and has cooperated with law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of the crime. [Name] has demonstrated bravery and resilience in the face of adversity and would be a valuable member of our community.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Letter of Support for Family Sponsorship
Dear Immigration Officer,
I am writing this letter to express my support for [Name]’s application for family sponsorship. [Name] is my [relationship], and I have known him/her for [number] of years.
[Name] is a hardworking, responsible, and honest person who would be a valuable addition to our community. [Name] has [insert any personal details about the person]. I believe that [Name] would be an asset to our country, and I support his/her application for family sponsorship.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Letter of Support for Waiver of Inadmissibility
Dear Immigration Officer,
I am writing this letter to express my support for [Name]’s application for a waiver of inadmissibility. I have known [Name] for [number] of years, and I can attest to his/her honesty, integrity, and good moral character.
[Reason for inadmissibility] was a one-time mistake and does not reflect [Name]’s true character. [Name] has [insert any details about the person’s positive contributions to the community]. I believe that [Name] would be an asset to our country and should be granted a waiver of inadmissibility.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Letter of Support for Employment Authorization
Dear Immigration Officer,
I am writing this letter to express my support for [Name]’s application for employment authorization. [Name] is a hardworking, responsible, and honest person who would be an asset to any employer.
As [Name]’s [relationship], I can confirm that he/she has always been reliable and committed to his/her work. [Name] has [insert any details about the person’s skills, experience, or education]. I believe that [Name] would make a positive contribution to our economy and should be granted employment authorization.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Character Reference Letter for Immigration Purposes
When writing a character reference letter for immigration purposes, it’s important to keep the following tips in mind:
- Be honest and objective. Stick to the facts and avoid exaggerating or embellishing.
- Include specific details about the person’s character, contributions to the community, and achievements.
- Use a professional tone and format. Address the letter to the appropriate immigration officer and include your contact information.
- Be concise and to-the-point. Keep the letter to one or two pages.
- Proofread for errors and typos.
Frequently Asked Questions
How important is a character reference letter for immigration purposes?
A character reference letter can be an important factor in immigration proceedings, as it provides evidence of the applicant’s good character, moral standing, and contributions to the community.
Who can write a character reference letter for immigration purposes?
A character reference letter can be written by anyone who knows the applicant and can attest to his/her good character, moral standing, and contributions to the community. This can include employers, colleagues, friends, family members, and community leaders.
What should be included in a character reference letter for immigration purposes?
A character reference letter should include specific details about the person’s character, contributions to the community, and achievements. It should also be addressed to the appropriate immigration officer and include the writer’s contact information.
How long should a character reference letter for immigration purposes be?
A character reference letter should be one or two pages long, depending on the requirements of the immigration agency.
How should a character reference letter for immigration purposes be formatted?
A character reference letter should be formatted professionally, with a clear heading, greeting, body, and closing. It should also include the writer’s contact information and be addressed to the appropriate immigration officer.
What should I do if I don’t know what to write in a character reference letter for immigration purposes?
If you’re not sure what to write in a character reference letter for immigration purposes, you can use one of the examples provided here as a template. Be sure to personalize the letter and include specific details about the applicant’s character, contributions to the community, and achievements.
Conclusion
A character reference letter can make a positive difference in immigration proceedings. By following the tips provided here and using the examples as a guide, readers can write effective character reference letters that support the applicant’s case and convey his/her good character and moral standing.