Invitation letter for a Schengen visa
If you will stay with family or friends in Europe, your host writes a letter inviting you and confirming where you will stay. Some countries also require an official form from the host.
What it should include
- The host's full name, address, phone and status in the country (citizen or legal resident).
- Your full name, nationality and passport number, and how you know each other.
- The exact dates of the visit.
- That you will stay at the host's home, and whether the host also covers living costs.
- A copy of the host's ID or residence permit and proof of address.
Sample invitation letter
Marc Dubois
5 Rue Cler, 75007 Paris, France
+33 6 12 34 56 78
26 October 2026
The Visa Section
Consulate General of France in Bengaluru
Subject: Invitation letter for Ananya Rao, passport number Z1234567
Dear Sir or Madam,
I, Marc Dubois, a citizen of France, would like to invite my friend, Ananya Rao, a national of India, to visit me from 10 April 2027 to 21 April 2027 (12 days).
During the visit, my guest will stay at my home at the address above.
I enclose a copy of my identity document and proof of address. Please contact me at +33 6 12 34 56 78 if you need any further information.
Yours faithfully,
Marc Dubois
Prepare an invitation letter for your host to signAnswer a few questions and see your letters in full before you pay. $5 for every letter your trip needs.Make my letters
Country rules to know
- France: a host usually also needs an official "attestation d'accueil" from their town hall. The letter does not replace it.
- Germany: if the host also guarantees your costs, the official form is the "Verpflichtungserklärung" from the local foreigners' office.
Check the official requirements of the country you visit. Your host must read, approve and sign their own letter.