Can USCIS ask for DNA testing?
USCIS may suggest your family perform a DNA test when the primary evidence you submitted is insufficient. Normally, your family will be sent an office action in the form of a Request For Evidence letter or a Notice of Intent to Deny letter. Either way, these are the most common ways a petitioner may receive an opportunity to perform a DNA test to prove an alleged biological relationship.
- Secondary evidence
What type of secondary evidence does USCIS accept?
Below are a few examples of secondary evidence USCIS may request from a family.
School leaving certificates, ration cards, church / baptismal records, hospital records, medical records, affidavits, etc.
- Genetic testing
What are the most common DNA tests performed for immigration purposes?
The most common requested DNA relationship tests USCIS may suggest your family performed are as follows:
1. Paternity Test – determines the relationship between an alleged father and child.
2. Maternity Test – determines the relationship between a mother and child.
3. Sibling DNA Test – determines the relationship between two alleged siblings.
Please note, the type of relationship performed will be determined based on the alleged biological relationship between the petitioner and beneficiary.
- Accredited laboratory
All DNA tests are performed with a partner AABB Accredited DNA Testing Laboratory to establish a proper legal chain of custody for the purposes of evidence submission. What this means is, all legal testing DNA samples that are analyzed and tested are recognized by Embassies, USCIS, Passport Agencies, and Family Courts.
- DNA sample collection
What type of genetic samples will be collected for testing?
The most common genetic sample used for DNA analysis is the use of buccal swabs. The buccal swab will be placed inside of the mouth and brushed up against the cheek both on the left and right cheeks. Blood samples are also a viable option for DNA analysis.