The letter that tiesthe whole file together.
Prepare an invitation that connects the host, the applicant, the financial commitment, family size, accommodation and the purpose of travel — and agrees with every other document.
- Signed
- By the host and any co-signer
- Specific
- Dates, address, support, family size
- Consistent
- Must match forms and income proof
- Temporary
- A visit, not a relocation
Overview
Why the invitation letter matters
The signed letter explains the family relationship, the visit plan and the host's promise of financial support. It should agree with the forms, the insurance, the income documents and the applicant's own explanation. When these conflict, the officer notices.
The detail
What you need to know
Required host information
- Full name, date of birth, Canadian address, phone and email.
- Canadian citizenship, permanent residence, or registered Indian status.
- Employment and financial-support information.
- Signature of the host and any eligible co-signer.
Applicant and visit details
- Applicant's full name and relationship to the host.
- Purpose and expected duration of the visit.
- Proposed travel dates and accommodation.
- Who will pay for travel and living expenses.
Family size and income
The letter must identify everyone included in the host's family-size calculation — names and dates of birth — and be supported by evidence that the host meets the minimum necessary income.
Common mistakes
- Generic promises with no specifics.
- Missing family members from the size calculation.
- Inconsistent dates across documents.
- Unclear accommodation arrangements.
- Unsupported income statements.
- Language suggesting permanent relocation rather than a temporary visit.
Next step
Have the letter reviewed
We check the invitation letter for completeness and for consistency with the rest of the application — which is where most letters fail.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Program rules change and individual circumstances matter. Confirm current IRCC requirements before applying.
Talk to a regulated consultant
We confirm eligibility, flag the risks, and build the document plan before anything is filed.
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