What Is a Character Reference Letter for Immigration?
A character reference letter for immigration is a personal statement that supports an immigration applicant. It’s written by someone who knows the applicant well and can attest to their virtues and integrity.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reviews this letter to learn about the applicant’s good moral character (GMC). Their assessment and other materials help them decide whether the applicant should be approved.
An immigration letter of support humanizes the applicant and highlights their community contributions. It helps the USCIS learn why they should be allowed to live and work in the US.
When to Use an Immigration Reference Letter
An immigration reference letter can support permanent or temporary entry into the US. This document is used alongside various immigration applications:
It may be used in immigration hearings, such as removal, deportation, or detainment proceedings. Legal Templates also offers a character reference letter for court if you need to acknowledge an offense the applicant committed.
How to Write a Character Reference Letter for Immigration
A good immigration recommendation letter should be evidence-based, heartfelt, and truthful. Follow these steps to write your own to convey the applicant’s unique attributes and circumstances.
Step 1 – Address the Recipient
Begin by addressing the letter’s recipient. Often, it will be the USCIS office or an immigration judge. If you don’t know the recipient’s name, you can use a generic salutation like “To Whom It May Concern.”
Step 2 – Introduce Yourself
Introduce yourself by providing the following details:
- Your name
- Your professional title
- How long you have known the applicant
If you’re a US citizen, mention your status. While not required, US citizenship can lend additional credibility to your statements.
You should also state your relationship to the applicant. Reliable references include coworkers, employers, close friends, religious leaders, and educators. While family members can be references, they may be viewed as less credible because of their biases.
Example:
My name is Dr. Angela Peterson, a US citizen and resident of Houston, Texas. I am a board-certified oncologist at Memorial Hermann Hospital, where I have practiced medicine for over 20 years. I am writing to vouch for Ms. Maria Santos, whom I have known for 5 years and first met through a US-Philippines medical exchange program, and to support her application for a US H-1B work visa as an oncology nurse.
Step 3 – Highlight the Applicant’s Positive Traits & Contributions
Use your character letter for immigration to highlight the applicant’s positive attributes and achievements. Ensure that it is tailored to each case. For example, if the letter supports immigration for employment, focus on the subject’s successes at work. If the letter supports a family visa, focus on the subject’s dedication to their family and community.
Example:
During my relationship with Ms. Santos, she has proven to be a valuable member of the medical community. A notable commitment includes her leadership in managing chemotherapy protocols and patient education, highlighting her clinical expertise and compassion. As a result of her effort, hospital readmissions for preventable complications were reduced.
Ms. Santos’s dedication to training junior nurses on infusion techniques further showcased her leadership. Thanks to Ms. Santos, several nurses advanced their careers. These endeavors highlighted her role in creating a skilled healthcare environment.
Step 4 – Reiterate Your Endorsement
End your letter by restating your support of the applicant’s immigration. Assert that your interactions with the applicant have given you confidence in your reference.
Conclude your letter by encouraging the reader to reach out to discuss the applicant’s character further. Sign off with your name and contact details.
Example:
I wholeheartedly endorse Ms. Santos’s application for a US H-1B work visa. Throughout my time working alongside Ms. Santos, I have witnessed her deep commitment to advancing the standards of oncology nursing. I am confident Ms. Santos will be an invaluable asset to the US and any organization she joins.
Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Dr. Angela Peterson
Board-Certified Oncologist, Memorial Hermann Hospital
Houston, Texas
Phone: (713) 555-2846
Email: [email protected]
Sample Character Reference Letter for Immigration
View a sample character reference letter for immigration to learn how to phrase your endorsement. Complete your own using our guided form and download it in PDF or Word format.
