Immigration DNA Test

An Immigration DNA test can be used when evidence to support a biological relationship, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate, is insufficient or unavailable for applicants wanting to obtain a British Visa or Passport.

An Immigration DNA test can be used to provide highly accurate, scientific results that prove the existence of a biological relationship between an alleged father or mother and child. Typically, a DNA test is needed to prove parentage, but a DNA test can also be used to prove relationships between other relatives, such as siblings, aunts/uncles, nieces/nephews and grandparents.

The UK Border Agency, Passport Offices and Embassies require that immigration DNA tests be performed by laboratories certified by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). Our laboratory is ISO 17025 accredited and included on the list of recommended Ministry of Justice laboratories that may carry out parentage tests directed by the civil courts in England and Wales, under section 20 of the Family Law Reform Act 1969.

How are the samples collected?

For DNA test to be legally admissible, samples must be collected following a strict chain of custody. Samples need to be collected by an independent third party, typically a medically registered professional such as your local doctor or practice nurse. This person is known as a sampler, and they are responsible for verifying the identity of each party being tested. You will need to make an appointment with a sampler, who we will then send your collection kit to.

Please note, your sampler may charge a fee for taking the sample and this should be negotiated when making an appointment. The fee is not included in our charge and needs to be paid directly to the collector.

Immigration DNA Testing Outside of the UK

For people being tested who are outside of the United Kingdom, collection is normally arranged through the nearest United Kingdom Embassy or Consulate. Once the order is processed, the DNA testing kits for overseas participants will be sent directly from the lab to the embassy. Depending on where the parties are located, we may need to use a courier service; additional fees will apply.

Please note that a fee may be payable in the local currency to the embassy/consulate for sample collection and this is not included in the cost of DNA testing.

Results

Results will be available within 5 working days, from when we receive your samples at our laboratory. Results will only be sent to the parties being tested (or their legal guardian), to the email addresses provided at time of sample collection and to Her Majesty’s Passport Office. A hard copy of your results can also be arranged (additional fees apply). Results can also be emailed to third parties, such as lawyers, where written consent is given by the parties being tested.

How do I organise an Immigration DNA Test?

To proceed with Immigration DNA testing, you will need to have the following information ready:

  1. A copy of your Her Majesty Passport Office (HMPO), General Register Office (GRO), Visa & Immigration Office, or Home Office letter.
  2. The full legal name and relationship type (father/mother/son/daughter/brother/sister) of each individual to be tested.
  3. The contact phone number(s) for each individual.
  4. The current location (full residential address) of each individual.
  5. The date of birth of each individual.

Click on the ‘Order Now’ button to order your test today.

You can also contact us at any time, to discuss your particular case. Our Customer Support team will look at your case and contact you with more information and a detailed quote.

Paternity For Life is a proud provider of DNA testing services for clients of the International Star Assistance Group