UK Standard Visitor Visa Sponsorship Letter Guide (2025)

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If someone else will fund your trip to the UK, for example, a friend, family member, employer, or organisation,you must include a sponsorship letter explaining who is paying, their relationship to you, and how they will provide support.

This 2025 guide explains how to write a sponsorship letter for a UK Visitor Visa, what evidence to include, and provides a full template with example wording approved for Home Office use.

What Is a Sponsorship Letter for a UK Visitor Visa?

A sponsorship letter is a formal written statement confirming that another person or organisation will pay for some or all of your travel, accommodation, or living costs while you visit the UK.

• It supports your Proof of Funds documentation.
• It shows that your finances are genuine and traceable.
• It strengthens your application by explaining the financial relationship between you and your sponsor.

Who Can Sponsor a UK Visitor Visa?

Your sponsor can be:

• A family member or friend living in the UK
• Your employer or a company funding business travel
• A registered organisation (university, charity, or government body)

They must be legally present in the UK (e.g., British citizen, settled resident, or visa holder) and able to provide financial and accommodation evidence.

Information to Include in a Sponsorship Letter (2025)

Your sponsor should clearly explain the following:

• Their full name, address, and immigration status.
• Their relationship to you (with supporting proof).
• Details of what costs they will cover (travel, accommodation, daily expenses).
• The length and purpose of your visit.
• Where you will stay and for how long.
• A list of enclosed supporting documents.

Sample UK Visitor Visa Sponsorship Letter (Family Visit)

[Your Sponsor’s Full Name]
[Full Address in the UK]
[Phone / Email]
[Date]

The Entry Clearance Officer
UK Visas and Immigration

Subject: Sponsorship Letter for [Applicant’s Full Name] – UK Standard Visitor Visa

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to confirm that I, [Full Name], am sponsoring [Applicant’s Full Name] for their visit to the United Kingdom from [start date] to [end date].

I am a [British citizen / settled resident / visa holder] residing at the above address. [Applicant] is my [relationship, e.g., sister, friend, parent]. I will cover their accommodation and living expenses during their stay, and I am providing financial evidence to confirm my ability to do so.

Enclosed are copies of my [passport/residence permit], recent bank statements, payslips, and proof of address.

Please contact me if further information is required.

Yours faithfully,
[Signature]
[Full Name]

Sample UK Visitor Visa Sponsorship Letter (Business Visit)

Subject: Sponsorship Confirmation – Business Visit

This is to confirm that [Company Name] will sponsor [Applicant Name] to visit the UK for business meetings from [start date] to [end date]. All costs relating to travel, accommodation, and subsistence will be covered by the company.

We confirm that this visit will not involve any paid work or service delivery in the UK. Supporting documents, including our business registration and financial records, are attached.

Documents to Include from the Sponsor

To support the sponsorship letter, the sponsor should include copies of:

• Passport or residence permit (photo page).
• Recent bank statements (minimum 3 months).
• Payslips or proof of regular income.
• Proof of address (e.g., council tax or utility bill).
• Employment letter or business registration certificate (if self-employed).
• Tenancy agreement or property ownership documents (if providing accommodation).

Common Sponsorship Mistakes to Avoid

• Not signing or dating the letter.
• Missing proof of relationship (for family or friends).
• Not matching financial figures with supporting documents.
• Submitting unclear or partial copies of evidence.
• Failing to include the sponsor’s immigration status or address.

Where to Upload the Sponsorship Letter

The sponsorship letter and supporting evidence should be uploaded digitally when you submit your online visa application. If asked, bring originals to your biometric appointment.

People Also Asked

Who can write a sponsorship letter for a UK Visitor Visa?

Any family member, friend, or organisation legally in the UK can provide sponsorship if they can show they have enough funds and lawful status.

Is a sponsorship letter required for a UK Visitor Visa?

No, it’s optional, but if someone else is paying for your trip or hosting you, the letter is highly recommended to support your financial documents.

What documents should accompany a sponsorship letter?

Include the sponsor’s passport, bank statements, proof of income, address, and any evidence of relationship (birth/marriage certificate, photos, correspondence).

Can my employer sponsor my UK Visitor Visa?

Yes. If you’re visiting for business meetings or events, your employer can issue a sponsorship letter on company letterhead confirming the purpose and funding of your trip.

Where do I submit my sponsorship letter?

Upload your sponsorship letter with your supporting documents during your online application. Originals may be required at your visa appointment if requested.

Related Guidance

• Proof of Funds for a UK Visitor Visa (2025)
• Documents Checklist (2025)
• Cover Letter Example (2025)
• Visa Refusals & Reapplication Guidance (2025)
• Supporting Documents Upload Guide (2025)

About This Page

Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: October 2025