What is U.S. Embassy DNA Testing?
Embassy DNA Testing occurs when a consular officer provides CRBA and visa applicants an opportunity to submit secondary evidence to prove a claimed biological relationship. It is important that we mention that embassies facilitate the DNA collection process by coordinating appointments for DNA sample collections for beneficiaries.
When does an Embassy suggest DNA testing?
DNA testing may be suggested when insufficient evidence of a claimed biological relationship is submitted to U.S. embassy for CRBA or visa acceptance.
DNA Sample Collection Process
Step 1: Contact IDTO DNA Testing at 877-680-5800 and we will assist you by connecting you with our partner AABB-accredited Laboratory who will initiate the process.
The sample collection appointments abroad generally must occur with U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country in which your family member/s currently reside.
If the petitioner resides in the United States, their sample will be collected there..
Step 2: For the petitioner’s DNA Sample Collection in the United States Parent/s (child or sibling) will not be able to perform or use a home DNA test kit. As stated earlier, all DNA tests must be performed by an AABB Lab in order for a U.S. Embassy or USCIS official to consider your DNA test result as evidence.
At your appointment, a buccal swab collection is a required choice for collecting genetic DNA samples. After the sample is collected it will be shipped to the laboratory in the U.S.
Once the petitioner’s samples arrive at the lab. The lab will prepare the shipment of the DNA test kit going to the U.S. Embassy where the beneficiary is currently located.
As a reminder, Under no circumstances should you receive the DNA test kit for yourself, your child, or other relative and ship the test kit to the Embassy. Our partner testing laboratory will be responsible for the shipment of the DNA test kit going to the Embassy. The kit will also have a prepaid return envelope that will be returned back to the lab after the beneficiary’s samples have been collected.
Step 3. After all DNA samples arrive at the lab, testing will begin with all genetic samples involved with your DNA test.
Results Turnaround Times:
The average turnaround time for the completion of your result is 2 to 3 business days from the date on which the lab received all samples. Please keep in mind does not include scheduling of the beneficiaries sample collection appointment by the embassy.
The lab will be responsible for shipping your results to the U.S. Embassy and a copy of your result will be mailed to your home.
If you would like to learn more about the U.S. Embassy’s Immigration DNA Testing process. Please do not hesitate to contact our office today at 877-680-5800 to get started.
Related Questions
How much does embassy DNA Testing cost?
Contact our office at 877-680-5800 for quotes regarding your specific DNA relationship testing needs.
What will beneficiaries need to bring on the day of their DNA sample collection appointment?
Below is a detailed list of what will be needed for the DNA sample collection appointment coordinated by the embassy:
1. For each person:
– Original government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, travel document, etc.) and a photocopy
– English translation of any non-English IDs
2. For children under 14:
– Government-issued (not hospital-issued) birth certificate
3. For each person:
– 1 passport-sized (5cm x 5cm) color photograph on a white background
4. For applicants under 18:
– A parent or legal guardian must accompany the applicant
– The parent/guardian must bring valid photo ID
5. If using a translator:
– The translator must bring government-issued photo ID
Why do embassies suggest DNA Testing?
Embassies may suggest voluntary DNA testing when the primary evidence submitted during the filing of the immigrant visa application process is insufficient.
Although, DNA testing is viable option to help determine a claimed relationship. I should be noted that DNA test results do not guarantee CRBA or visa acceptance.
Important Embassy Notes:
1. The Embassy only accepts buccal (oral) swab DNA test results. This method involves gently swabbing the inside of the mouth to collect genetic material.
2. The petitioner and beneficiary are responsible for all costs related to testing, including doctor’s fees, mailing, and laboratory fees. These must be paid upfront.
3. The Embassy does not set testing costs, intervene with laboratories regarding costs, or provide refunds for unused DNA kits.
4. The Embassy only accepts original test results sent directly from the testing laboratory, to ensure proper safeguards and conformity with U.S. visa regulations.
5. The Embassy does not assume responsibility for the quality or practices of AABB-accredited parentage testing laboratories.
6. Submitting to DNA testing does not guarantee subsequent visa issuance. Other case investigations will be suspended pending test result completion.
7. Negative test results may lead to petition revocation or denial by the Department of Homeland Security.
8. Penalties exist for providing false statements or information on immigrant visa applications.
9. Results should be submitted directly from laboratory and not from the applicant (petitioner or beneficiary).
10. Do not initiate DNA testing unless a consular officer or USCIS official has recommended testing. Independently done tests not following State Department procedures will not be accepted.
11. Do not pay for DNA testing for anyone besides those who were specifically recommended for testing. Individuals not recommended for testing will not be tested.
12. USCIS DNA Referrals: During COVID-19, many embassies suspended the DNA sample collection appointments for many months creating a large backlog. Depending on the country, the backlog may still affect sample collections.
Conclusion:
U.S. Embassy DNA Testing is a process that allows CRBA and visa applicants to prove a claimed biological relationship through genetic evidence. This testing is suggested when the primary evidence provided is insufficient.
It is important that applicants follow the embassy’s instructions for evidence submission in order to avoid immediate denial. If want to learn more about DNA Testing services for U.S. embassy immigration purposes. Call 877-680-5800 to get started today.
