If you or a family member are planning to begin the process of immigrating to the United States, DNA testing can be an extremely helpful tool for success. Proving familial relationships without proper documentation can be a challenge, but immigration DNA tests offer an excellent means of presenting biological evidence.
How Does Immigration DNA Testing Work?
The process for DNA testing is typically very simple, requiring a quick cheek swab to collect a biological sample from each party. Both the visa applicant and the petitioner will undergo testing, though the steps for each party vary slightly:
- The petitioner initiates the testing process by choosing a lab facility and making an appointment for DNA collection. A technician will swab the petitioner’s cheek for a DNA sample, then submit the sample to their testing facilities.
- Then, the lab facility will forward a testing kit to the applicant’s nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The applicant will be provided with an appointment to submit their cheek swab sample.
- After testing is complete, the lab will send all results directly to the appropriate government agencies. The applicant will be contacted regarding the next steps in their application process.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Visa After an Immigration DNA Test?
Although the immigration DNA testing process can usually be completed fairly quickly, receiving an actual visa can sometimes require a long wait. There are several factors that can affect your wait time, including backlogs at USCIS. Many applicants receive their visas in about 60-90 days, but others experience a wait time of several months. If you have received your DNA results and feel that you have been waiting for an extremely long time, you may want to contact immigration for information about the current status of your visa application.
Is a DNA Test Required for Immigration?
Although DNA testing is not currently required for immigration, it is a highly effective option for providing a biological relationship between family members. In most cases, a DNA test is considered the strongest form of evidence for immigration purposes. Depending on the specific situation, a consular officer may suggest DNA testing as a means to prove the familial relationship, especially when other methods are not an option.
How Much Does Immigration DNA Testing Cost?
The cost of the DNA testing process can vary depending on where the involved parties reside. However, because a DNA test can be a valuable addition to the immigration process, the investment is often one that saves time, hassle, and money in the long run.
How Do I Choose a Lab for Immigration DNA Testing?
Both federal and Florida state laws require that any DNA testing for legal purposes be completed by an accredited laboratory, making at-home test kits unacceptable for the immigration process. It’s important that you verify that your selected lab is AABB-accredited, otherwise, your results will not be valid for legal use.
Convenient Immigration DNA Testing in Fort Myers
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