What is an Invitation Letter? (Visitor Visa)

An invitation letter is a letter that is written by a Canadian citizen or legal resident to their foreign relative/friend in good faith of the Temporary Resident Visa (visitor visa) application. It also confirms that they are willing to accommodate this person in their home. Once notarized, the person visiting Canada must present this letter to the Canadian embassy or consulate in their country. It is very important that this letter of invitation includes certain details about the host(s) and the person being invited to Canada. To help ensure all these requirements are met, we have listed them below and also have a free invitation letter template available on our website.

VISITOR INFORMATION REQUIRED IN AN INVITATION LETTER

• full legal name and date of birth;
• full residential address and telephone number;
• relationship to the host (person inviting the visitor to Canada);
• purpose of the trip;
• arrival and departure dates of the trip;
• where the person will stay; and
• how he or she will pay for things.

HOST INFORMATION REQUIRED IN AN INVITATION LETTER

• full legal name and date of birth;
• full residential address and telephone number;
• occupation and citizenship status;
• photocopy of a document proving your status in Canada, such as;
  • Canadian birth certificate, Canadian citizenship card, and PR card
• details of host’s family (names and dates of birth of spouse and dependants); and
• the total number of people living in the household.

For the parent and grandparent super visa only, it is also required to provide:

• a written and signed promise of your financial support for your parents or grandparents for their entire stay in Canada; and
• proof that your income meets or is above the low-income cut-off (LICO) for the total number of people, including the visiting parents or grandparents.

MORE INFORMATION ON INVITATION LETTERS

It is important to note that invitation letters do not guarantee the issuance of a visitor visa. As well, writing a letter of invitation does not mean the host is legally responsible for the visitor once he or she gets to Canada. The visa officer will determine whether or not this visitor meets the requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. 

Should you need additional information about invitations letters, please visit Government of Canada: Letter of Invitation or consult a licensed lawyer.

NOTARIZE YOUR INVITATION LETTER

Notable Notary can help you get your invitation letter notarized in-person and remotely online. We offer same-day appointments and are always available to answer any questions you may have regarding notarization. Contact us today to learn more.