Getting your green card application right can make all the difference in your immigration journey. The cover letter plays a key role in making a good first impression with immigration officials. A properly written cover letter explains your situation clearly and helps officials understand why you qualify for permanent residency in the United States.
This article gives you 15 different examples of effective cover letters for various green card application situations. Each sample shows a different approach to presenting your case in the best possible light. Read through these examples to find the style that fits your situation best.
Sample Cover Letters for Green Card Application
Here are fifteen sample cover letters that can guide you as you prepare your own green card application.
1. Family-Based Green Card Application (Spouse)
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services P.O. Box 660151 Dallas, TX 75266
Subject: Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative – [Applicant Name]
Dear USCIS Officer:
Please accept this letter as support for the enclosed Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, which I am filing on behalf of my spouse, [Spouse Name].
My name is [Your Name], a U.S. citizen. I married [Spouse Name] on [Marriage Date] in [Marriage Location]. Our relationship began [brief description of how you met and your relationship timeline]. We have built a life together based on love, trust, and mutual respect.
Our marriage is genuine and was entered into in good faith. To support this petition, I have included the following documents:
1. Copy of my U.S. passport/birth certificate/naturalization certificate 2. Our marriage certificate 3. Joint bank account statements 4. Joint lease agreement 5. Photos of us together at various events and with family members 6. Affidavits from friends and family who can attest to the authenticity of our relationship 7. Travel itineraries showing trips we have taken together
We hope for a favorable consideration of this petition. If any additional information is needed, please contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
2. Employment-Based Green Card Application (EB-2 National Interest Waiver)
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services P.O. Box 660123 Dallas, TX 75266
Subject: I-140 Petition – National Interest Waiver Application
Dear USCIS Officer:
I am writing to request a National Interest Waiver as part of my Employment-Based Second Preference (EB-2) petition for permanent residence in the United States.
As a research scientist with expertise in renewable energy technologies, my work has significantly contributed to advancing sustainable energy solutions. My research has resulted in three patents that have been implemented by leading energy companies, reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 15% in their operations.
My qualifications for the National Interest Waiver are as follows:
1. My area of expertise is of substantial merit and national importance: – Renewable energy research directly addresses U.S. energy security and environmental goals – My specific work on solar cell efficiency has been recognized by the Department of Energy
2. I am well positioned to advance this endeavor: – Ph.D. in Materials Science from Stanford University – Published 15 peer-reviewed articles in top journals including Science and Nature – Cited over 500 times by other researchers – Current research position at [Research Institution]
3. Waiving the job offer requirement would benefit the U.S.: – My research has practical applications that can reduce U.S. dependence on fossil fuels – The flexibility to collaborate across institutions will accelerate progress in this field – My work supports national goals for clean energy development
The enclosed supporting documents, including recommendation letters from leading experts in the field, verify my claims and highlight the national importance of my work.
Thank you for your consideration of this petition. Please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] if additional information is needed.
Respectfully,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
3. Diversity Visa Lottery Winner Application
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Diversity Visa Lottery Winner Application – Case Number: [DV Case Number]
Dear USCIS Officer:
This letter accompanies my application for permanent residence as a winner of the Diversity Visa Lottery for fiscal year [Year]. I received notification of my selection on [Date], with case number [DV Case Number].
I am a citizen of [Country], born on [Birth Date] in [Birth Place]. I meet all eligibility requirements for the Diversity Visa program, including:
– High school education equivalent to U.S. high school diploma (12 years of elementary and secondary education) – No criminal record or immigration violations – Valid passport and all required civil documents
Included with this application are the following documents:
1. Form DS-260 confirmation page 2. Two passport-style photographs 3. Birth certificate with certified translation 4. High school diploma with certified translation 5. Police clearance certificates from all countries where I have lived for more than 6 months since age 16 6. Medical examination results from a USCIS-approved physician 7. Proof of financial support (bank statements, affidavit of support from U.S. sponsor)
I understand the time-sensitive nature of the Diversity Visa process and have submitted all required documentation promptly. Should you need any additional information, please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Thank you for your consideration of my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
4. Asylum-Based Green Card Application
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence (Asylee)
Dear USCIS Officer:
I am writing to apply for adjustment of status to permanent resident based on asylum status granted to me on [Date of Asylum Approval] by the [Asylum Office/Immigration Judge] in [Location].
I was granted asylum due to [brief, general reference to persecution experienced] in my home country of [Country of Origin]. Since receiving asylum, I have resided continuously in the United States and have worked diligently to establish a new life here.
During my time in the United States, I have: – Maintained lawful status as an asylee – Obtained employment authorization and worked at [Company/Organization] – Learned English and taken courses at [Educational Institution] – Become an active member of my community through [Volunteer Activities/Community Involvement] – Filed taxes as required by law – Maintained a clean criminal record
With this application, I am submitting: 1. Form I-485 and filing fee 2. Copy of my asylum approval notice/order 3. Birth certificate with certified translation 4. Two passport-style photographs 5. Form I-693 Medical Examination 6. Form G-325A Biographic Information 7. Proof of employment and tax filings
I respectfully request that my application for permanent residence be approved. Should you require any additional information or documentation, please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Thank you for your consideration.
Respectfully,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
5. Marriage-Based Green Card Application (Adjustment of Status)
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-485 Adjustment of Status Application (Marriage to U.S. Citizen)
Dear USCIS Officer:
This letter accompanies my Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence based on my marriage to a U.S. citizen. My spouse, [Spouse Name], is concurrently filing Form I-130 on my behalf.
I entered the United States legally on [Entry Date] with a [Visa Type] visa. My spouse and I met [brief description of how you met] and were married on [Marriage Date] in [Marriage Location]. Our relationship has grown through shared values, mutual respect, and common goals for our future together in the United States.
To demonstrate the bona fide nature of our marriage, we have included: – Joint financial accounts and credit card statements – Lease agreement showing both our names – Utility bills addressed to both of us – Insurance policies listing each other as beneficiaries – Photographs documenting our relationship over time – Letters from family and friends attesting to our relationship – Evidence of trips taken together
My complete application package includes: 1. Forms I-485, I-130, I-765, and I-131 with appropriate fees 2. Personal identification documents (passport, birth certificate, I-94) 3. Marriage certificate 4. Proof of my spouse’s U.S. citizenship 5. Financial support documents (Form I-864 Affidavit of Support) 6. Medical examination (Form I-693) 7. Two passport-style photographs
Should you need any clarification or additional documentation, please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Thank you for your time and consideration of this application.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
6. EB-1 Extraordinary Ability Green Card Application
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-140 Petition – Extraordinary Ability (EB-1A)
Dear USCIS Officer:
This letter supports my Form I-140 petition for classification as an alien of extraordinary ability in the field of [Your Field]. As detailed in the enclosed documentation, I have risen to the very top of my field and gained sustained national and international acclaim for my work.
My extraordinary ability in [Your Field] is demonstrated through meeting at least three of the regulatory criteria:
Criterion #1: [Evidence of nationally or internationally recognized prizes/awards] – Recipient of [Award Name] in [Year], an award recognized as among the most prestigious in my field – Winner of [Competition/Prize] selected from over [Number] competitors worldwide
Criterion #2: [Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement] – Member of [Organization], which admits only those who have made significant contributions to [Field] – Selection process includes rigorous peer review and evaluation of professional accomplishments
Criterion #3: [Published material about you in professional publications] – Featured in [Publication Name] (circulation [Number]) in an article titled “[Article Title]” – Subject of a profile in [Journal/Magazine Name], highlighting my contributions to [Field]
Criterion #4: [Original contributions of major significance to your field] – Developed [Innovation/Method/Theory] that has been adopted by [Companies/Organizations] – [Description of how your work has significantly impacted the field]
Criterion #5: [High salary or remuneration relative to others in the field] – Current salary of $[Amount] places me in the top [Percentage] of professionals in my field – Compensation history showing consistent recognition of my superior abilities
My extraordinary ability directly benefits the United States through [specific ways your work contributes to U.S. interests]. I plan to continue my work in [Brief description of future plans].
Thank you for your consideration of my petition. Please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] with any questions.
Respectfully submitted,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
7. Green Card Application Based on VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Vermont Service Center [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-360 Self-Petition (VAWA)
Dear USCIS Officer:
This letter accompanies my Form I-360 self-petition under the Violence Against Women Act as the [spouse/child/parent] of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who has subjected me to battery or extreme cruelty.
I entered into marriage with [Spouse Name] on [Marriage Date] in good faith. Unfortunately, during our marriage, I experienced [general description of abuse without graphic details]. This situation has deeply affected my wellbeing and safety.
My petition includes evidence demonstrating that: – I have a qualifying relationship with my [spouse/parent] who is a U.S. citizen/permanent resident – I resided with my abusive [spouse/parent] – I was subjected to battery or extreme cruelty during the relationship – I am a person of good moral character – I entered the marriage in good faith (if applicable)
Supporting documentation includes: 1. Personal statement detailing my situation 2. Evidence of my relationship to the abuser (marriage certificate/birth certificate) 3. Evidence of the abuser’s U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status 4. Documentation of abuse (medical records, police reports, restraining orders, etc.) 5. Affidavits from witnesses, counselors, or other professionals 6. Police clearance certificates demonstrating good moral character
I understand that all information provided is confidential under the law. Should you need additional information, please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address], or through my legal representative if indicated on Form G-28.
Thank you for your careful consideration of my petition.
Respectfully,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
8. EB-3 Skilled Worker Green Card Application
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-140 Petition – EB-3 Skilled Worker
Dear USCIS Officer:
This letter supports the Form I-140 petition filed by [Employer Name] on my behalf for classification as an EB-3 Skilled Worker. I have been offered permanent employment as a [Job Title] with [Employer Name], which has received an approved Labor Certification (PERM) for this position.
My qualifications for this position include: – Over [Number] years of experience as a [Occupation] – Technical training and certification in [Relevant Fields] – Specialized skills in [List Specific Skills] – Proven track record of [Relevant Achievements]
The position requires a minimum of [Requirements from Labor Certification] and my background shows that I meet and exceed these requirements as demonstrated by: 1. [Training Certificate/Degree Name] received from [Institution] in [Year] 2. Employment letter from [Previous Employer] confirming [Number] years working as [Previous Title] 3. Performance evaluations showing expertise in [Relevant Skills] 4. [Any Other Qualifying Evidence]
My prospective employer has demonstrated its ability to pay the offered wage through [business tax returns/annual reports/financial statements] and has shown that this is a permanent position that cannot be filled by qualified U.S. workers despite extensive recruitment efforts.
The complete petition package includes: – Form I-140 with filing fee – Approved Labor Certification (ETA Form 9089) – Evidence of my qualifications – Employer’s ability to pay the proffered wage – Letter of job offer for permanent employment
Thank you for your consideration of this petition. If additional information is needed, please contact [Employer Contact or Attorney] at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
9. Green Card Application Based on Refugee Status
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence (Refugee)
Dear USCIS Officer:
I am writing to apply for adjustment of status to permanent resident based on my refugee status. I was admitted to the United States as a refugee on [Date of Admission] with refugee classification under INA ยง 207.
Since my arrival in the United States: – I have resided continuously in this country – I have maintained my refugee status – I have been physically present in the United States for at least one year – I have not become firmly resettled in any foreign country – I remain admissible to the United States or eligible for a waiver of inadmissibility
During my time in the United States, I have worked to establish myself by: – Learning English through [Classes/Programs] – Obtaining employment at [Employer Name] – Contributing to my community through [Community Activities] – Building connections with [Social/Religious/Community Groups]
Included with my application are: 1. Form I-485 and filing fee (or fee waiver request) 2. Copy of my I-94 card showing refugee admission 3. Birth certificate with certified translation 4. Two passport-style photographs 5. Form I-693 Medical Examination (if required) 6. Evidence of one-year physical presence in the United States 7. Employment authorization document or evidence of employment
Thank you for considering my application for permanent residence. If you need any additional information or documentation, please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Respectfully yours,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
10. U Visa-Based Green Card Application
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Vermont Service Center [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-485 Application (U Nonimmigrant Status Adjustment)
Dear USCIS Officer:
This letter accompanies my Form I-485 application to adjust status to permanent resident based on my U nonimmigrant status. I was granted U visa status on [Date] as a victim of [Type of Criminal Activity] who assisted law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of that crime.
I have maintained continuous physical presence in the United States since receiving my U visa and have held this status for at least three years. During this time, I have:
– Cooperated with reasonable requests from law enforcement related to the criminal investigation – Maintained good moral character – Not unreasonably refused to provide assistance to law enforcement – Established a life in the United States through [employment/education/community ties]
My adjustment application includes: 1. Form I-485 with appropriate filing fee 2. Copy of my U visa approval notice 3. Evidence of continuous physical presence in the United States 4. Documentation of compliance with reasonable requests from law enforcement 5. Personal statement regarding my cooperation with authorities 6. Evidence of good moral character (affidavits, police clearances) 7. Form I-693 Medical Examination 8. Two passport-style photographs
The hardships I would face if returned to my home country include [brief description of humanitarian considerations]. Remaining in the United States is essential for my safety and wellbeing.
Thank you for your consideration of my application. Please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] with any questions or requests for additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
11. Special Immigrant Juvenile Status Green Card Application
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-485 Application (Special Immigrant Juvenile Status)
Dear USCIS Officer:
This letter accompanies my Form I-485 application to adjust status to permanent resident based on my classification as a Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ). I was granted SIJ status by USCIS on [Date of SIJ Approval].
My SIJ classification was based on a state court order issued by [Court Name] on [Date], which found that: – I am under 21 years of age – I am unmarried – I cannot be reunited with one or both parents due to abuse, abandonment, or neglect – It is not in my best interest to return to my country of origin
Since arriving in the United States, I have: – Lived with [Current Guardian/Foster Care Arrangement] – Attended [School/Educational Program] – Participated in [Therapy/Support Services/Community Activities] – Made significant progress in [Educational/Personal Achievements]
My adjustment application package includes: 1. Form I-485 with appropriate filing fee or fee waiver request 2. Copy of my SIJ approval notice (Form I-360) 3. Birth certificate with certified translation 4. Two passport-style photographs 5. Form I-693 Medical Examination 6. Evidence of my current status and continuous residence 7. Any applicable waivers of inadmissibility
The opportunity to become a permanent resident will allow me to continue my education, build a stable life, and overcome the difficult circumstances of my childhood. I am committed to becoming a productive member of American society.
Thank you for your consideration of my application. Please contact my legal representative [if applicable] or me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] with any questions.
Respectfully,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
12. EB-5 Investor Green Card Application
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Immigrant Investor Program Office [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-829 Petition to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status (EB-5 Investor)
Dear USCIS Officer:
This letter accompanies my Form I-829 petition to remove conditions on my permanent resident status based on my EB-5 investment. I received conditional permanent residence on [Date] based on my investment in [Name of Regional Center or Direct Investment Project].
My initial I-526 petition was approved on [Date], and I have fulfilled all requirements of the EB-5 program during my conditional residency period:
1. Investment Commitment and Maintenance: – I made the required capital investment of $[Amount] in [Project Name] – The funds have remained fully invested throughout the conditional residence period – Documentation of fund transfers and current investment status is included
2. Job Creation: – My investment has created [Number] full-time positions for qualifying U.S. workers – These jobs include positions for [Types of Positions Created] – Employment records, payroll documents, and I-9 forms are included as evidence
3. Commercial Enterprise Status: – The commercial enterprise remains active and operational – Current business licenses, tax returns, and financial statements are included – The business has [met/exceeded] the projections outlined in the business plan
This petition includes comprehensive documentation of: – The sustained nature of my investment – The required job creation – Compliance with all terms of the approved business plan – My continued eligibility for permanent resident status
Thank you for your consideration of my petition to remove the conditions on my permanent resident status. Please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address], or my legal representative if indicated on Form G-28, with any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
13. Green Card Application Through Registry Provision
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-485 Application Based on Registry Provision
Dear USCIS Officer:
This letter accompanies my Form I-485 application for permanent residence based on the Registry provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act. I am eligible for Registry because I have resided continuously in the United States since before January 1, 1972, and meet all other eligibility requirements.
My history in the United States: – I first entered the United States on [Date] through [Port of Entry] – I have resided continuously in this country for [Number] years – My presence has been known to the government through [tax filings/Social Security/prior immigration applications/etc.] – I am a person of good moral character – I am not inadmissible under current immigration law, or I qualify for available waivers
To document my continuous presence since before January 1, 1972, I have included: 1. Affidavits from long-term acquaintances who have known me since my arrival 2. Employment records dating back to [Year] 3. Rent receipts and utility bills from [Year] to present 4. School records for my children showing my address 5. Tax returns filed since [Year] 6. Medical records from [Year] forward 7. Church/community organization membership records 8. Old correspondence addressed to me at U.S. addresses
My application package also includes: – Form I-485 with filing fee – Two passport-style photographs – Form I-693 Medical Examination – Police clearance certificates – Birth certificate with certified translation
Thank you for your consideration of my application. Please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] with any questions or requests for additional documentation.
Respectfully yours,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
14. Cuban Adjustment Act Green Card Application
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-485 Application under Cuban Adjustment Act
Dear USCIS Officer:
This letter accompanies my Form I-485 application for adjustment of status to permanent resident under the Cuban Adjustment Act. As a Cuban citizen who has been physically present in the United States for more than one year, I am eligible for this benefit.
My background and eligibility: – I was born in Cuba on [Birth Date] – I arrived in the United States on [Date] and was [paroled/admitted/etc.] – I have been physically present in the United States since that date – I have maintained continuous residence in the United States for over one year – I am admissible as an immigrant or eligible for a waiver of inadmissibility
During my time in the United States, I have: – Established a home in [City, State] – Obtained employment with [Employer Name] – Built connections within my community through [Community Activities] – [Any other relevant information about integration into U.S. society]
My application includes: 1. Form I-485 with appropriate filing fee 2. Cuban birth certificate with certified translation 3. Evidence of Cuban citizenship 4. Proof of inspection, parole, or admission to the United States 5. Evidence of physical presence in the U.S. for at least one year 6. Two passport-style photographs 7. Form I-693 Medical Examination 8. Form G-325A Biographic Information
Thank you for your consideration of my application. Please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] if you need any additional information or documentation.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
15. Green Card Application Through Cancellation of Removal
[Current Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Address]
Subject: Form I-485 Application Following Approval of Cancellation of Removal
Dear USCIS Officer:
This letter accompanies my Form I-485 application for adjustment of status to permanent resident following the approval of my Cancellation of Removal application by the Immigration Judge at [Court Location] on [Date of Order].
As documented in my case before the Immigration Court (Case #[Case Number]), I have established: – Continuous physical presence in the United States for at least 10 years – Good moral character during that period – No disqualifying criminal convictions – That my removal would result in exceptional and extremely unusual hardship to my [U.S. citizen/permanent resident spouse/parent/child]
The Immigration Judge granted Cancellation of Removal on [Date], and that decision became final when the Board of Immigration Appeals [affirmed the decision/government waived appeal] on [Date].
Since the favorable decision in my case, I have: – Maintained my good moral character – Continued to support my family – Remained employed at [Employer Name] – Continued my community involvement through [Activities]
My application includes: 1. Form I-485 with filing fee 2. Copy of the Immigration Judge’s order granting Cancellation of Removal 3. Evidence that the decision is final 4. Two passport-style photographs 5. Birth certificate with certified translation 6. Form I-693 Medical Examination 7. Updated affidavits regarding current situation 8. Recent evidence of good moral character
Thank you for your consideration of my application for permanent residence. If you need any additional information, please contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address], or through my legal representative if indicated on Form G-28.
Respectfully,
[Your Signature]
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
Wrap-up: Cover Letters for Green Card Applications
The cover letter serves as your personal introduction to USCIS officers. A well-crafted letter helps them understand your situation quickly and see why you qualify for a green card. Each immigration path has specific requirements, so your cover letter should focus on the aspects most relevant to your case.
When writing your own cover letter, pick the sample that most closely matches your situation. Change the details to fit your personal circumstances. Make sure all information is accurate and honest. Double-check for spelling and grammar mistakes. Your cover letter should look professional since it creates the first impression of your application.
Getting a green card takes time and careful attention to detail. A strong cover letter can help set your application apart. Follow the guidelines for your specific immigration category, include all required documents, and present your case clearly. This approach gives you the best chance at a successful outcome.