How to write a letter of recommendation for Immigration?

A letter of recommendation for immigration is a crucial document in several immigration processes in the United States.

Whether a family member, friend or colleague needs your support in their immigration case, your letter can make or break a judge’s decision. Here’s how to write a clear and effective letter that will help in these cases.

What is a Letter of Recommendation for immigration?

This letter is intended to endorse a person who is in the immigration process, describing his or her character, behavior and contribution to the community.

Depending on the case, the approach may vary: it may be a letter to support release on bond, to support an application for a green card, or even to request a waiver of deportation.

How to structure a Letter of Recommendation for Immigration?

The structure is fundamental for the letter to have a positive impact. Here are the key elements it should include:

• Heading: Address the letter to the “Honorable Immigration Judge”.
• Introduction: Introduce who you are, your immigration status (if applicable) and your relationship to the recommended person.
• Description of the recipient: Explain the relationship you have with the person, how long you have known them, and provide specific examples of their behavior and character.
• Key argument: It is important to highlight why this person does not represent a danger to the community and how his or her permanence in the country benefits his or her environment. Provide tangible examples of their daily life and their integration into the community.
• Conclusion: Close your letter by reiterating your support, signing it and adding the phrase “I swear that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief”.

Pro tip: If you can, include a copy of your identification showing your status as a U.S. citizen or legal resident to support your credibility.

Here you have the link to download all the forms you may need.

What factors does the immigration judge consider?

For a judge, there are several factors that influence his or her decision as to whether the person deserves the support requested, either for a release on bond or in a cancellation of removal case:

• Community integration: The judge will assess whether the person has strong ties to the local community, including employment history, participation in community activities and family stability.
• Moral character: Letters of recommendation should demonstrate that the person has exemplary character and poses no risk to society.
• Responsibility: You must emphasize that the person is responsible and will comply with any legal obligations, such as appearing at future hearings.

Sample Letter of Recommendation

Here is an example that you can follow when writing your own letter:

[Nombre completo]
[Dirección]
[Fecha]

Honorable Immigration Judge,

My name is [Nombre del remitente] and I am [incluir relación con el solicitante]. I have known [Nombre del solicitante] for [número de años], and during this time I have witnessed his dedication and effort to integrate into the [ciudad o estado] community.

[Nombre del solicitante] is a principled person, who has demonstrated an exemplary work ethic by contributing to [describir trabajo o actividades comunitarias]. In addition, he is a fundamental support to his family, helping both financially and emotionally.

I firmly believe that [Nombre del solicitante] poses no danger to our community and I am confident that he will comply with all obligations imposed by this court. Prolonged detention of [Nombre del solicitante] would not only negatively affect his family, but also our community, which benefits from his presence.

Please consider this letter in support of your application.

I swear that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.

[Firma]
[Nombre del remitente]

How to write a migration approval letter?

In addition to letters of recommendation, there are other documents such as the immigration approval letter, commonly issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This type of letter is known as Form I-797, also called “Notice of Action”.

What is a Letter of Approval (I-797)?

The Form I-797 is sent to applicants to inform them of the approval of their immigration application, whether for visas, family petitions or green cards. This document is critical as it indicates the next step in the immigration process.

Types of Form I-797:

1. I-797A: When an application is approved and further steps are required, such as attending an interview or submitting additional documentation.
2. I-797B: Specifically for immigrant visa applicants seeking residency from abroad.
3. I-797C: Used for various notices, such as receiving applications or rescheduling appointments.
4. I-797D: Indicates approval of a foreign worker application.

What to do after receiving a Letter of Approval?

Once you receive the immigration approval letter, you must carefully follow the instructions contained in the document. In many cases, it will be necessary to schedule an interview at an embassy or consulate, or submit additional documents such as financial proof or criminal records.

Both the letter of recommendation for immigration and the letter of approval (I-797) are essential tools in the immigration process in the United States.

Making sure they are well structured and contain all relevant information can make a big difference in the success of an immigration case. If in doubt, it is always advisable to consult an immigration attorney who can guide you through the process.