Invitation Letter for Tourist Visa Australia (With Sample)

If you want to help your friend or family member get a visitor visa, consider creating a heartfelt invitation letter for a tourist visa in Australia! 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating a compelling and comprehensive invitation letter, so you can increase their chances of a successful application!

Table of Contents

What is a tourist visa?

A tourist visa is a legal document that allows you to visit Australia for a holiday, or to see family and friends.

To get this, you must apply for the Visitor Visa Subclass 600 (Tourist stream). This visa type allows you to stay for up to 12 months for the purpose of:

• Tourism (sightseeing, vacation, leisure activities)
• Visiting friends and family members who are in Australia

If you want to spend more time with your family in Australia, you might want to consider applying for the Sponsored Family Stream.

What is an invitation letter, and what is its main purpose?

An invitation letter is a written request addressed to the Immigration Office, asking them to approve a temporary visa (like a tourist visa) for the person you want to invite.

It is usually provided by an Australian resident or citizen who wishes to host a family member or a friend for a specific purpose, such as a family reunion or a simple meet-up.

Why is this important?

Well, the main purpose of this visa invitation letter is to support the visa application of the person being invited. 

It tells the consular officers handling the visa request that the applicant or invitee has a genuine reason for their visit and that they will have a place to stay, and support during their stay in Australia.

This can increase the likelihood of their visa getting approved.

Is an invitation letter required for an Australian tourist visa?

No, an invitation letter is not required when applying for a tourist visa to Australia. 

However, as discussed earlier, an Australian visa invitation letter can absolutely make your invitee’s visa application stronger and boost their chances of approval, especially if the purpose of the visit is to meet family and friends.

What are the requirements for an invitation letter in Australia?

So, what essential information and attachments should you include in the visitor visa letter of invitation? Below are the general requirements for an invitation letter in Australia:

For the Australian host:

• Full Name
• Date of birth
• Proof of Australian residency, citizenship or status in Australia (e.g. student visa, work visa) 
• Current occupation
• Address in Australia
• Contact Information (including mobile number, email address, etc.)
• Relationship with the visa applicant (e.g. friend, family, relative, etc.)
• Proof of financial means (if the host is funding the applicant’s visit)
• Living arrangements (if the host is responsible for the applicant’s accommodation)

For the visa applicant or invitee:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Reason for their visit
• Date of visit and departure
• Duration of the visit (number of days or weeks)
• Applicant’s address
• Applicant’s contact details, including mobile number and email
• Accommodation details

How to write an invitation letter for tourist visa?

Now that you have all the information you need for your invitation letter, let’s break down the process of writing it. Here are the steps to creating a compelling invitation letter:

1. Start by following the standard letter format.

Provide your full name and address in Australia, as well as the date when you’re writing the invitation letter.

When addressing the recipient, you can use “To whom it may concern” or the more formal “Dear Sir or Madam.”

2. Include a subject line and the visa applicant’s details.

In the subject line (often indicated as “Re” or “Regarding”), mention the purpose of the letter. For example, “Re: Invitation Letter for a Childhood Friend’s Visa Application.”

Below the subject line, provide essential details about the visa applicant. Include their full name, birthdate, and passport number.

This information helps clarify the purpose of the letter and establish the identity of the applicant.

3. Describe the relationship and its purpose.

Here, briefly describe your relationship with the visa applicant. For example, “I am writing to confirm that [Visa Applicant’s Full Name] is a [friend, family member, or relative] of mine.”

Explain the purpose of the visit, such as a vacation, family reunion, or other specific reasons.

Be concise in your explanation.

4. Specify the duration and living arrangements.

Clearly state the duration of the visit, specifying the number of days or weeks the visa applicant plans to stay in Australia. 

Mention the accommodation details, particularly if you will be providing accommodation during their visit. This ensures that the authorities understand the arrangements.

5. Express your intentions and support.

Explain why you’re inviting the person and how you plan to support them during their stay. You may mention any specific plans or activities you have in mind. 

For instance, “During their visit, I am excited to show them around Sydney, including famous landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach.”

6. Offer contact information.

Include your contact information, including your mobile number, email address, and any other relevant details, for easy communication. 

This allows the immigration authorities to reach you if they have any questions or need further clarification.

7. Verify your status in Australia.

Provide the details and proof of your Australian residency or citizenship, including copies of your Australian passport or proof of residency, or your current visa status in Australia (e.g. student visa, work visa).

8. State your current occupation.

Briefly mention your current occupation or work status in Australia. This adds credibility to the invitation. 

For instance, if you hold a respected or responsible position, it may positively influence the visa officer’s perception of your ability to host and support the invitee.

9. State all attachments included.

Mention and summarize (preferably in bullet points) all supporting documents you’ve attached, such as copies of passports, proof of Australian residency or citizenship, a lease agreement, and any additional documents required for the visa application.

10. Close with politeness.

Wrap up the letter with a courteous closing statement, extending an invitation for any inquiries or concerns the visa officer may have. 

Conclude with warm regards and sign the letter with your name.

11. Double-check details and attachments for accuracy.

Take a moment to review your letter. Ensure that all the details, including names, dates, and contact information, are accurate and complete.

Check if you’ve attached all the required documents and make sure all documents are clear and legible.

Sample Invitation Letter for Australian Tourist Visa

Scenario: Sarah Adams is an Australian citizen who is about to tie the knot with her fiancé, James. Among her closest friends is Ploy, who hails from Bangkok, Thailand. Ploy holds a special place in Sarah’s heart, and she wouldn’t imagine her wedding without her dearest friend.

Do you need an invitation letter for a tourist visa to Australia for your parents?

If you want to strengthen your parents’ tourist visa application, then you may need to write an invitation letter for your parents. 

However, keep in mind that this is not mandatory. 

The letter of invitation for parents serves as a strong supporting document – although it’s just one of many documents and factors necessary for a successful visa application.

It gives visa officers a better grasp of your parents’ situation, clarifying why they want to visit and their ties to you in Australia.

How do I write an invitation letter for a family member?

Writing an invitation letter for family or parents follows a similar process as for friends or colleagues. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you write one:

1. Begin with the appropriate letter format.

Start your letter with a standard letter format. Include your full name and address in Australia at the beginning, followed by the current date.

Use formal salutations such as “To Whom It May Concern” or the courteous “Dear Sir or Madam.” when addressing the recipient.

2. Add a subject line and your parents’ details.

Incorporate a subject line (often indicated as “Re” or “Regarding”) to specify the purpose of the letter. For example, “Re: Invitation Letter for My Parents’ Tourist Visa Application.”

Below the subject line, provide crucial details of your family members or parents, including their full names and passport numbers.

3. Describe the purpose of your parents’ visit

Explain the purpose of their visit, which may include attending a special event like a graduation, celebrating a holiday, or spending quality time together.

You may also consider the unique family dynamics. Include details about shared family activities, like celebrating holidays or attending weddings.

Share your excitement about their visit and any special plans or activities you have in mind. Be concise and heartfelt in your explanation.

4. Specify how long your parents are staying in Australia.

Clearly state the duration of their visit, specifying the number of days or weeks they plan to stay in Australia, as well as their dates of arrival and departure.

Mention accommodation details, especially if you will be providing lodging during their visit. 

5. Provide your occupation details

Briefly mention your current occupation or work status in Australia. This adds credibility to the invitation and gives the visa officer an idea of your financial capability.

6. Provide your contact details.

Include your contact information, such as your mobile number, telephone, and email address, so immigration authorities can easily reach you in case of any concerns or further clarification. 

7. Verify your Australian status.

Provide proof of your Australian residency or citizenship, which may include documents like your citizenship certificate or residency proof. If that’s not applicable, provide your visa status instead (e.g. student visa) to confirm your legal status in Australia.

8. Mention attachments.

State all the attachments included with the letter. List any supporting documents you’ve included, such as bank statements, itineraries, or any additional documents necessary.

9. Conclude with politeness and an invitation for questions

Conclude the letter with a courteous closing statement. Extend an invitation for any inquiries or concerns the visa officer may have, and sign the letter with your name.

10. Review all information and attached documents for correctness.

Carefully double-check that all details in your letter, including names, dates, and contact information, are accurate and complete.

Verify that you’ve attached all the required documents and confirm that all documents are clear and legible.

Sample invitation letter for parents to visit Australia

Scenario: Alex Fernandez, an Australian resident, wishes to invite his parents, John and Mary Fernandez, both Filipino citizens residing in the Philippines, for a family reunion in Melbourne.

Still need help with how to write an invitation letter for tourist visa?

Before you know it, you’ll be embracing the happiness of being together with your loved ones!

With an Australian visa invitation letter that truly reflects your intentions and relationships, you can make a big difference in helping your friends or family get the tourist visa they need.

At KBA Global, we’ll help you create invitation letters that convey your genuine warmth and sincerity. Just leave the details to us and wave the stress away.

Everything begins with a call! Talk with our friendly team, and let’s make that long-awaited reunion a reality.