Inviting Family and Friends to the U.S.

Students are welcome to invite their family and friends to the U.S. to visit or attend a special event such as commencement. The U.S. Department of State does not require a letter of invitation from LSU as LSU is not inviting your family or friends; you are inviting them. The U.S. Department of State has also stated that they do not want letters of invitation from the schools and do not take them into consideration in the visa application process.

Documents to Provide

  • A letter signed and written by you that invites your family or friends to visit you in the U.S. and/or attend your commencement ceremony. The letter should include:
    • Why are are in the U.S.- your visa status, institution you are attending, field and level of study, and when you will complete your program.
    • The name and relationships of the people you are inviting.
    • When they will be visiting and if there is a specific reason for the timing of the visit (example: school break, special holiday, commencement ceremony)
    • Details about what you will be providing such as financial assistance and accommodations. Are they staying with you in your accommodations? Will you be providing meals and/or transportation?
    • Activities that are planned for the visit
    • Your contact information
  • A copy of your I-20/DS-2019 document and F/J visa as proof of your valid status in the U.S.
  • If you are inviting family to visit during your program:
  • If you are inviting family to visit for commencement:
    • Confirmation email that you have applied for graduation
    • Provide your family or friends with details about commencement such as a commencement schedule

Your family or friends should contact the specific U.S. embassy or consulate where they will apply for their visa. Procedures may vary by embassy/consulate.

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