As part of immigration and visiting procedures to countries like the USA, Canada, UK and the EU, candidates are sometimes requested to perform relationship DNA tests. Immigration officials request this test for different reasons – to prove family ties using DNA from parents, siblings, paternal aunts, uncles and grandparents living outside the country or to return to your country of origin. This is what is referred to as an Immigration DNA test.
This article will discuss everything you need to know about doing an Immigration DNA test in Nigeria.
Why is an Immigration DNA Test Required?
An immigration DNA Test is often required when an individual applies for immigration benefits, such as a visa, passport, green card, or citizenship, and must establish a biological relationship with a family member who is already a citizen. For example, suppose an applicant is applying to join a family member who lives abroad as a permanent resident. In that case, a DNA test might be requested to prove that the person seeking a passport or citizenship is a blood relative.
The specifications and processes for immigration DNA testing may differ based on the country and its immigration regulations.
How Does Immigration DNA Testing Work?
Immigration DNA test involves collecting samples from the parties involved in the immigration application process. Samples are collected with a swab stick (plastic or wooden stick with cotton) rubbed inside the participant’s cheeks to collect cells for analysis. These cells contain DNA which can be extracted and analysed in the laboratory to identify similar genetic markers and establish biological relationships.
How is Paternity / Maternity confirmed?
The laboratory conducts a set of tests known as DNA sequencing.
- Each participant provides cells (through swabbing of the cheek) from which DNA is extracted and amplified.
- Genetic markers for each participant are analysed and compared
- A geneticist takes this data and calculates the probability that the test participants share a biological relationship.
Requirements for an Immigration DNA Test
Request letter- An Immigration DNA test has to be formally requested by the relevant government agency of the country where the immigration process is taking place. Therefore, participants must submit a request letter to the test centre.
DNA Samples– One of the requirements for an Immigration DNA test is the DNA sample collected with a swab stick rubbed inside the participant’s cheek to collect cells for analysis. Samples for an immigration DNA test must be collected under a strict chain of custody condition. This means that a trained sample collector takes DNA samples from each participant, together with a picture identification (international passport) to ensure that the samples are taken from the right people.
Consent– Proper consent is an essential requirement for an immigration DNA test. All participants must consent for their samples to be used for the DNA testing. For children under 18, their parent or legal guardian must provide consent
Documentation– Basic information will also be collected such as the name of the participants. Additional documents such as passport photographs and international passports would also be requested.
How accurate is an Immigration DNA Test?
An immigration DNA test is 99% accurate in determining whether participants share a biological relationship
How much is an Immigration DNA test in Nigeria?
The cost of an Immigration DNA test in Nigeria varies based on several factors, such as the testing centre, the number of participants, and which DNA relationship test is required (e.g. paternity, maternity, sibling, aunt/uncle or grandparent).
How long does an Immigration DNA Test result take?
The result is available within a few days to a few weeks after samples are collected. However, this depends on the test centre.
Where can I do an Immigration DNA test in Nigeria?
Smart DNA offers fully accredited Immigration DNA testing services to clients in accordance with the highest international standards. Our DNA tests are recognised and admissible worldwide. We have a team of fully trained individuals to ensure that we make the procedure as seamless as possible. We guarantee you accuracy and confidentiality all through the process.
For more information about our services, speak to our care experts at +234 802 984 0246 or click here