US Immigration and VISA
AABB-Accredited Immigration DNA Testing for USCIS, U.S. Embassies, and Consulates
Need a DNA test to prove a biological relationship for a U.S. immigration or visa application? Validity Genetics provides professional immigration DNA testing through an AABB-accredited partner laboratory, helping families establish biological relationships for U.S. immigration and citizenship-related applications.
Whether your family members live in the United States or overseas, we can help coordinate the DNA testing process, arrange authorized sample collection, and ensure results are submitted directly to the appropriate government authority.
Our immigration DNA testing services include paternity, maternity, and sibling relationship testing, with additional family relationship testing options available depending on your case.
Immigration DNA Testing Starting at $495
Contact Validity Genetics to discuss your immigration DNA testing requirements.
Important: If USCIS or a U.S. Embassy or Consulate has recommended DNA testing, follow the instructions provided by that authority before beginning. Do not purchase an ordinary at-home or legal DNA test expecting it to satisfy immigration requirements.
Why Is DNA Testing Needed for U.S. Immigration?
When applying for a U.S. immigrant visa, citizenship-related documentation, or certain family-based immigration benefits, applicants may need to provide evidence of a biological relationship with a family member.
Birth certificates, marriage records, and other supporting documents are commonly used to establish family relationships. However, when those records are unavailable, incomplete, or insufficient, USCIS or a U.S. Consular Officer may recommend DNA testing as additional evidence.
Immigration DNA testing can help establish biological relationships between:
A father and child (Paternity DNA Testing)
A mother and child (Maternity DNA Testing)
Full siblings who share both biological parents
Half siblings who share one biological parent
Other biological relatives, when appropriate for the specific application
DNA testing is voluntary and is not required for every immigration application. However, when recommended by immigration authorities, properly performed DNA testing can provide valuable scientific evidence supporting a claimed biological relationship.
DNA results do not guarantee approval of an immigration application or visa.
What Makes Immigration DNA Testing Different from Regular DNA Testing?
An immigration DNA test uses established genetic testing methods to evaluate biological relationships. However, the collection, documentation, and handling requirements are significantly different from those of a standard at-home DNA test.
For immigration purposes, testing must be performed through an AABB-accredited relationship DNA testing laboratory and follow the procedures required by the requesting government authority.
These procedures typically include:
Verification of each participant's identity.
Collection by an authorized third party.
Documented chain-of-custody procedures.
Secure shipment of samples to the accredited laboratory.
Direct delivery of official results to the requesting government authority.
Participants cannot collect their own samples or personally handle the immigration DNA collection kits.
These safeguards help ensure that the DNA samples belong to the identified participants and that the results can be evaluated as part of the immigration application.
For more information about legal DNA collection requirements, visit our Legal DNA Testing overview.
Types of Immigration Relationship DNA Tests
The appropriate DNA test depends on the biological relationship that needs to be established and the requirements of the requesting immigration authority.
Immigration Paternity DNA Testing
An immigration paternity DNA test compares the genetic markers of a child and an alleged biological father to determine whether the tested man is the child's biological father.
Paternity testing is one of the most common types of immigration DNA testing and may be recommended when documentary evidence of a father-child relationship is insufficient.
Learn more about our Legal Paternity DNA Testing services.
Immigration Maternity DNA Testing
A maternity DNA test determines whether a tested woman is the biological mother of a child.
This type of testing may be useful when birth records are unavailable, inconsistent, or insufficient to establish the claimed mother-child relationship.
Immigration Sibling DNA Testing
Sibling DNA testing evaluates whether two individuals are biologically related as full siblings or half siblings.
Immigration sibling testing may be considered when direct parent-child testing is unavailable or when a sibling relationship is relevant to the application.
Because sibling DNA testing involves statistical relationship analysis, results may sometimes be inconclusive. Additional family members or supporting documentation may be needed.
Other Immigration Family Relationship Tests
In certain citizenship or immigration-related cases, testing involving grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other biological relatives may be considered.
However, more distant family relationships can be difficult to establish conclusively through DNA testing alone. These tests should be discussed with the accredited laboratory and the requesting authority before proceeding.
Not sure which DNA test is needed? Contact Validity Genetics with the instructions you received from the immigration authority so we can help determine the appropriate testing options.
How Does U.S. Immigration DNA Testing Work?
Validity Genetics helps clients navigate the immigration DNA testing process, including situations where family members live in different countries.
Although procedures may vary depending on the requesting authority and location, the process generally involves the following steps.
Step 1: Receive a DNA Testing Recommendation
Before arranging immigration DNA testing, you should receive instructions or a recommendation from USCIS, a U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or other appropriate government authority.
The instructions may identify the individuals who need testing and explain where official DNA results must be submitted.
Do not begin an immigration DNA test before receiving the appropriate instructions. An ordinary at-home DNA test or previously completed relationship test may not be accepted.
Step 2: Contact Validity Genetics
Once DNA testing has been recommended, contact our team to discuss your case.
We will review the information needed to arrange testing, including:
The biological relationship being evaluated.
The number of individuals participating.
The country and city where each participant is located.
The requesting government authority.
Any relevant case numbers or testing instructions.
We can then discuss the available testing arrangements, estimated costs, and next steps.
Step 3: Arrange Authorized DNA Sample Collection
DNA samples are generally collected using a simple cheek swab, also called a buccal swab.
For participants located in the United States, collection must be performed through an authorized collection arrangement that meets the laboratory's immigration testing requirements.
For participants located overseas, the accredited laboratory coordinates shipment of the collection kit to the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate, where the designated collection process is arranged.
Immigration DNA test kits are not sent directly to participants for self-collection.
Step 4: Laboratory DNA Analysis
After collection, samples are securely shipped to the AABB-accredited laboratory for analysis.
Laboratory specialists examine genetic markers to evaluate the claimed biological relationship.
The testing method and interpretation depend on whether the case involves paternity, maternity, siblings, or another approved relationship.
Step 5: Official Results Are Sent to the Requesting Authority
Once testing is completed, the accredited laboratory sends the official DNA test results directly to the appropriate U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or government authority as required.
A copy of the results may also be requested from the laboratory by the appropriate client or participant, subject to applicable authorization and privacy requirements.
The government authority reviews the DNA results together with the other information provided in the immigration application.
Can Family Members Complete Immigration DNA Testing in Different Countries?
Yes. Family members do not need to be in the same country to complete an immigration DNA test.
For example, a father living in the United States may need to establish paternity for a child living overseas.
In these cases, each participant can complete the required collection at an authorized location, following the applicable immigration testing procedures.
The accredited laboratory coordinates the testing process so samples from the different locations can be analyzed together.
For overseas participants, the collection kit is generally sent directly to the designated U.S. Embassy or Consulate, which arranges the collection appointment according to its procedures.
This allows families separated by international borders to complete relationship DNA testing without traveling to the same location.
How Much Does U.S. Immigration DNA Testing Cost?
Immigration DNA testing with Validity Genetics starts at $495.
Because every immigration case is different, final pricing depends on several factors, including:
The type of biological relationship being tested.
The number of participants.
Whether participants are located in the United States or overseas.
International shipping and sample collection arrangements.
Additional laboratory or collection requirements.
Overseas collection fees or other third-party charges may apply.
We recommend contacting us with your case details before arranging testing so we can provide information about the expected costs.
Request Immigration DNA Testing Information
What Information Do I Need Before Contacting Validity Genetics?
To help us review your case, please have the following information available:
A copy of the DNA testing recommendation or instructions from USCIS, a U.S. Embassy, or Consulate.
The full legal name of each person who needs testing.
The biological relationship being evaluated.
The date of birth of each participant.
The country and city where each participant is located.
Contact information for the person arranging the test.
Any relevant immigration case number or government correspondence.
Please do not send sensitive personal identification documents through an unsecured contact form unless specifically instructed to do so.
Our team can explain how to submit the necessary information and coordinate the next steps.
Contact Us for more US Immigration and VISA Information
Have you received a DNA testing request from USCIS, a U.S. Embassy, or Consulate?
Complete the form below and tell us a little about your immigration case. Our team will review your information and contact you to discuss the appropriate DNA testing options, collection arrangements, and pricing.
AABB-Accredited Immigration DNA Testing for USCIS, U.S. Embassies, and Consulates
Need a DNA test to prove a biological relationship for a U.S. immigration or visa application? Validity Genetics provides professional immigration DNA testing through an AABB-accredited partner laboratory, helping families establish biological relationships for U.S. immigration and citizenship-related applications.
Whether your family members live in the United States or overseas, we can help coordinate the DNA testing process, arrange authorized sample collection, and ensure results are submitted directly to the appropriate government authority.
Our immigration DNA testing services include paternity, maternity, and sibling relationship testing, with additional family relationship testing options available depending on your case.
Immigration DNA Testing Starting at $495
Contact Validity Genetics to discuss your immigration DNA testing requirements.
Important: If USCIS or a U.S. Embassy or Consulate has recommended DNA testing, follow the instructions provided by that authority before beginning. Do not purchase an ordinary at-home or legal DNA test expecting it to satisfy immigration requirements.
Why Is DNA Testing Needed for U.S. Immigration?
When applying for a U.S. immigrant visa, citizenship-related documentation, or certain family-based immigration benefits, applicants may need to provide evidence of a biological relationship with a family member.
Birth certificates, marriage records, and other supporting documents are commonly used to establish family relationships. However, when those records are unavailable, incomplete, or insufficient, USCIS or a U.S. Consular Officer may recommend DNA testing as additional evidence.
Immigration DNA testing can help establish biological relationships between:
A father and child (Paternity DNA Testing)
A mother and child (Maternity DNA Testing)
Full siblings who share both biological parents
Half siblings who share one biological parent
Other biological relatives, when appropriate for the specific application
DNA testing is voluntary and is not required for every immigration application. However, when recommended by immigration authorities, properly performed DNA testing can provide valuable scientific evidence supporting a claimed biological relationship.
DNA results do not guarantee approval of an immigration application or visa.
What Makes Immigration DNA Testing Different from Regular DNA Testing?
An immigration DNA test uses established genetic testing methods to evaluate biological relationships. However, the collection, documentation, and handling requirements are significantly different from those of a standard at-home DNA test.
For immigration purposes, testing must be performed through an AABB-accredited relationship DNA testing laboratory and follow the procedures required by the requesting government authority.
These procedures typically include:
Verification of each participant's identity.
Collection by an authorized third party.
Documented chain-of-custody procedures.
Secure shipment of samples to the accredited laboratory.
Direct delivery of official results to the requesting government authority.
Participants cannot collect their own samples or personally handle the immigration DNA collection kits.
These safeguards help ensure that the DNA samples belong to the identified participants and that the results can be evaluated as part of the immigration application.
For more information about legal DNA collection requirements, visit our Legal DNA Testing overview.
Types of Immigration Relationship DNA Tests
The appropriate DNA test depends on the biological relationship that needs to be established and the requirements of the requesting immigration authority.
Immigration Paternity DNA Testing
An immigration paternity DNA test compares the genetic markers of a child and an alleged biological father to determine whether the tested man is the child's biological father.
Paternity testing is one of the most common types of immigration DNA testing and may be recommended when documentary evidence of a father-child relationship is insufficient.
Learn more about our Legal Paternity DNA Testing services.
Immigration Maternity DNA Testing
A maternity DNA test determines whether a tested woman is the biological mother of a child.
This type of testing may be useful when birth records are unavailable, inconsistent, or insufficient to establish the claimed mother-child relationship.
Immigration Sibling DNA Testing
Sibling DNA testing evaluates whether two individuals are biologically related as full siblings or half siblings.
Immigration sibling testing may be considered when direct parent-child testing is unavailable or when a sibling relationship is relevant to the application.
Because sibling DNA testing involves statistical relationship analysis, results may sometimes be inconclusive. Additional family members or supporting documentation may be needed.
Other Immigration Family Relationship Tests
In certain citizenship or immigration-related cases, testing involving grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other biological relatives may be considered.
However, more distant family relationships can be difficult to establish conclusively through DNA testing alone. These tests should be discussed with the accredited laboratory and the requesting authority before proceeding.
Not sure which DNA test is needed? Contact Validity Genetics with the instructions you received from the immigration authority so we can help determine the appropriate testing options.
How Does U.S. Immigration DNA Testing Work?
Validity Genetics helps clients navigate the immigration DNA testing process, including situations where family members live in different countries.
Although procedures may vary depending on the requesting authority and location, the process generally involves the following steps.
Step 1: Receive a DNA Testing Recommendation
Before arranging immigration DNA testing, you should receive instructions or a recommendation from USCIS, a U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or other appropriate government authority.
The instructions may identify the individuals who need testing and explain where official DNA results must be submitted.
Do not begin an immigration DNA test before receiving the appropriate instructions. An ordinary at-home DNA test or previously completed relationship test may not be accepted.
Step 2: Contact Validity Genetics
Once DNA testing has been recommended, contact our team to discuss your case.
We will review the information needed to arrange testing, including:
The biological relationship being evaluated.
The number of individuals participating.
The country and city where each participant is located.
The requesting government authority.
Any relevant case numbers or testing instructions.
We can then discuss the available testing arrangements, estimated costs, and next steps.
Step 3: Arrange Authorized DNA Sample Collection
DNA samples are generally collected using a simple cheek swab, also called a buccal swab.
For participants located in the United States, collection must be performed through an authorized collection arrangement that meets the laboratory's immigration testing requirements.
For participants located overseas, the accredited laboratory coordinates shipment of the collection kit to the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate, where the designated collection process is arranged.
Immigration DNA test kits are not sent directly to participants for self-collection.
Step 4: Laboratory DNA Analysis
After collection, samples are securely shipped to the AABB-accredited laboratory for analysis.
Laboratory specialists examine genetic markers to evaluate the claimed biological relationship.
The testing method and interpretation depend on whether the case involves paternity, maternity, siblings, or another approved relationship.
Step 5: Official Results Are Sent to the Requesting Authority
Once testing is completed, the accredited laboratory sends the official DNA test results directly to the appropriate U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or government authority as required.
A copy of the results may also be requested from the laboratory by the appropriate client or participant, subject to applicable authorization and privacy requirements.
The government authority reviews the DNA results together with the other information provided in the immigration application.
Can Family Members Complete Immigration DNA Testing in Different Countries?
Yes. Family members do not need to be in the same country to complete an immigration DNA test.
For example, a father living in the United States may need to establish paternity for a child living overseas.
In these cases, each participant can complete the required collection at an authorized location, following the applicable immigration testing procedures.
The accredited laboratory coordinates the testing process so samples from the different locations can be analyzed together.
For overseas participants, the collection kit is generally sent directly to the designated U.S. Embassy or Consulate, which arranges the collection appointment according to its procedures.
This allows families separated by international borders to complete relationship DNA testing without traveling to the same location.
How Much Does U.S. Immigration DNA Testing Cost?
Immigration DNA testing with Validity Genetics starts at $495.
Because every immigration case is different, final pricing depends on several factors, including:
The type of biological relationship being tested.
The number of participants.
Whether participants are located in the United States or overseas.
International shipping and sample collection arrangements.
Additional laboratory or collection requirements.
Overseas collection fees or other third-party charges may apply.
We recommend contacting us with your case details before arranging testing so we can provide information about the expected costs.
Request Immigration DNA Testing Information
What Information Do I Need Before Contacting Validity Genetics?
To help us review your case, please have the following information available:
A copy of the DNA testing recommendation or instructions from USCIS, a U.S. Embassy, or Consulate.
The full legal name of each person who needs testing.
The biological relationship being evaluated.
The date of birth of each participant.
The country and city where each participant is located.
Contact information for the person arranging the test.
Any relevant immigration case number or government correspondence.
Please do not send sensitive personal identification documents through an unsecured contact form unless specifically instructed to do so.
Our team can explain how to submit the necessary information and coordinate the next steps.
Why Choose Validity Genetics for Immigration DNA Testing?
At Validity Genetics, we understand that immigration DNA testing is often an important step in bringing families together or establishing biological relationships for official purposes.
We work with an AABB-accredited partner laboratory and help clients understand the testing process from the initial inquiry through the delivery of results.
Our immigration DNA testing services offer:
AABB-Accredited Laboratory Testing
Testing is performed through an accredited laboratory using established relationship DNA testing procedures.
Domestic and International Coordination
We assist with arranging authorized collections for participants located in the United States and abroad.
Multiple Relationship Testing Options
We offer paternity, maternity, sibling, and other qualifying relationship testing options based on the needs of the case.
Secure Chain-of-Custody Procedures
Samples are collected and handled according to applicable immigration testing requirements.
Clear Communication and Support
Our team can help explain the testing process, documentation requirements, and next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions About Immigration DNA Testing
Is DNA testing required for U.S. immigration?
No. DNA testing is not automatically required for U.S. immigration or visa applications. USCIS or a Consular Officer may recommend DNA testing when other evidence is insufficient to establish a claimed biological relationship. Testing is voluntary, but declining testing may leave the relationship unproven if sufficient alternative evidence is unavailable.
Does USCIS accept at-home DNA test results?
Ordinary at-home DNA tests generally do not meet USCIS immigration testing requirements because they lack the required identity verification and documented chain-of-custody procedures. Immigration DNA testing should be arranged through an AABB-accredited laboratory following the instructions of the requesting authority.
Do I need an AABB-accredited laboratory for immigration DNA testing?
Yes. U.S. immigration DNA testing procedures require an AABB-accredited relationship DNA testing laboratory. This helps ensure that testing, sample collection, and documentation meet the applicable standards for immigration relationship evidence.
Can DNA testing be done if one person lives outside the United States?
Yes. Immigration DNA testing can be coordinated when family members live in different countries. The accredited laboratory arranges the appropriate collection procedures, including shipment of DNA collection kits to U.S. Embassies or Consulates when required.
How much does an immigration DNA test cost?
Immigration DNA testing with Validity Genetics starts at $495. Final pricing depends on the type of relationship test, number of participants, collection locations, and any international shipping or third-party collection fees.
How long does immigration DNA testing take?
The overall timeline depends on the locations of the participants, collection appointment availability, international shipping, and laboratory processing. Although standard relationship DNA analysis is generally completed within 2–3 business days after all required samples are received, immigration cases often take longer because of scheduling and international coordination.
What type of DNA sample is collected for immigration testing?
Most immigration relationship DNA tests use a cheek swab, also known as a buccal swab. This simple, noninvasive collection method gathers cells from inside the cheek for laboratory DNA analysis. Blood samples are generally unnecessary.
Can sibling DNA testing be used for immigration?
Yes. Full-sibling and half-sibling DNA testing may be used as biological relationship evidence in certain immigration cases. The usefulness of the results depends on the genetic findings and the requirements of the requesting authority. Additional documentation or family member testing may be necessary.
Will an immigration DNA test guarantee visa approval?
No. DNA testing provides evidence of a biological relationship but does not guarantee approval of an immigration petition, visa, passport, or citizenship-related application. Government authorities evaluate the DNA findings alongside other eligibility requirements and supporting documentation.
Can I order an immigration DNA test before USCIS requests one?
You should wait until the appropriate immigration authority recommends DNA testing and provides instructions. Ordering a standard DNA test beforehand may result in results that cannot be accepted for your immigration case.
Start Your U.S. Immigration DNA Testing Process
If USCIS, a U.S. Embassy, or Consulate has recommended DNA testing to establish a biological relationship, Validity Genetics can help you understand the next steps.
We offer AABB-accredited laboratory relationship testing with domestic and international collection coordination for qualifying immigration cases.
Immigration DNA Testing Starting at $495
Contact Validity Genetics to discuss your case and request testing information.
Validity Genetics provides DNA testing services and coordination, not immigration legal advice. All immigration applications and DNA evidence remain subject to review and acceptance by the appropriate government authority.
Official U.S. Government Resources
For additional information about immigration DNA testing procedures, visit:
U.S. Department of State – DNA Relationship Testing Procedures