Invitation Letter for Schengen Visa

What is an Invitation Letter?

An invitation letter is a document from a host in Europe inviting you to visit. It confirms your trip's purpose and shows you have accommodation.

Invitation letters are required (or strongly recommended) when:

• Staying with friends or family instead of a hotel
• Attending a business meeting or conference
• Visiting for any purpose where someone in Europe is expecting you

Additional Host Documents

Your host may also need to provide:

• Copy of their ID/passport: Proving identity and legal status
• Proof of residence: Utility bill, lease, or property deed
• Proof of relationship: Photos, previous visit stamps, communication history
• Bank statements: If sponsoring your trip financially

Requirements vary by embassy — some require notarized letters, others accept signed documents.

Business Invitation Letters

For business visits, the inviting company in Europe should provide a letter including:

• Company letterhead: Official company stationery
• Your name and details: Who is being invited
• Purpose of visit: Meetings, training, conference, negotiations, etc.
• Dates of visit: When you're expected
• Who will you meet: Names and positions
• Who covers costs: Company or yourself
• Contact person: Name, position, contact details
• Company registration: Some embassies want registration numbers

Sample Personal Invitation Letter

[Host's Name]
[Host's Address]
[City, Country]
[Phone/Email]
[Date]

To the Visa Section,
Embassy of [Country]

Dear Sir/Madam,

I, [Host's Full Name], a [citizen/permanent resident] of [Country], hereby invite [Your Full Name], born on [Date of Birth], passport number [Passport Number], to visit me at my home in [City, Country] from [Start Date] to [End Date].

[Your Name] is my [relationship — e.g., cousin, friend of 10 years, etc.]. The purpose of this visit is [describe — e.g., tourism, attending my wedding, family reunion].

During their stay, [Your Name] will reside at my address above. [I will cover their accommodation expenses / They will cover their own expenses].

I enclose copies of my [ID/passport and proof of residence] for your reference.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

Sincerely,
[Host's Signature]
[Host's Printed Name]