Sponsor evidence
Sponsor-funded visits: showing ability and intention to support
Identify what the sponsor will fund and whether that support is realistic alongside their own commitments.
Make an enquiry
Define the support
Explain whether the sponsor will provide accommodation, flights, living costs or all of these. The explanation should match the visit budget and distinguish financial support from hosting alone.
Resources and commitments
The supporter must be able and intend to provide the promised support. Relevant income, savings and expenditure evidence can help show whether that promise is realistic. There is no universal visitor-sponsor income threshold.
Retain the applicant’s story
Financial sponsorship does not remove the need to explain the visitor’s ordinary circumstances or intention to leave. If money has been transferred, explain whether it is a gift, reimbursement, loan or other arrangement accurately.
Common mistakes
- Promising full funding without showing how it can be afforded.
- Applying a spouse-visa income threshold to visitor sponsorship.
Evidence to consider
These are examples to consider where relevant, not a mandatory checklist or a guarantee that requirements are met.
- Appropriate supporter financial records and a precise support statement.
- Trip costs and an explanation of any transfers to the visitor.
Official rules and guidance
Rules and guidance can change. Check the current official sources before relying on this information.
This is general legal information, not advice or an assessment of your eligibility. Your individual circumstances and the rules in force when you apply require consideration by a solicitor. No outcome is guaranteed.
Related guidance
Advice on your own circumstances
Discuss your proposed visit or refusal with an immigration solicitor. Scope and fees are agreed in writing before substantive work begins.