DNA testing has become a significantly helpful tool and a reliable standard for immigration cases related to genetic family relationships. Over three decades, government immigration officials have used it as a means to verify genetic relational claims of individuals for family reunifications. Counties like Australia, the USA, Canada and China use this method. Home DNA tests has enabled more families to benefit from the technique to reunite with their loved ones and become legal residents of the country. While DNA testing is not mandated by the law, providing the documents can be additional evidence of relationships.
When Is DNA Testing Necessary?
The Department of Home Affairs (previously known as the Department of Immigration and Border Protection) manages the applications for immigrants to gain entry into Australia. One of the visa and citizenship claims that individuals have are Australian citizens, also sponsors, who wish them to enter the country. In such cases, the department assesses the documents provided to decide whether the claim is acceptable. DNA tests are generally the last option that officials consider when the family members cannot produce other valid documentation like a birth certificate to support their genetic relationship. Many have misconceptions that the test provides a sure ticket into the country. However, there are multiple regulatory and legal procedures that one must follow to gain their visa or citizenship.
What Are the Types of DNA Tests Available?
Different forms of home DNA testing can be accepted by authorities as reliable documentation for immigration applicants. Two of the most common tests include paternity tests and maternity tests. Paternity tests provide proof of fatherhood or paternity. It is done in cases where they require proof of the genetic relationship between a father and a child. Similarly, maternity tests provide proof of maternity or the genetic relationship between a mother and a child. These tests are necessary when one or both parents are Australian citizens but have a child born outside the country. They also accept DNA tests between relatives for applicants who wish to obtain a visa or citizenship having a relative as a sponsor. It is especially helpful for senior citizens who seek to live with the support of their relatives staying in Australia.
Which DNA Tests Are Accepted?
DNA testing has significant implications for deciding the validity of genetic relationships between family members. Therefore, the Department of Home Affairs requires applicants to take DNA tests from agencies that have been accredited by the National Association of DNA Testing (NATA). The entire process, including sample collection, transportation, testing, and laboratory analysis, must satisfy the international ISO/IEC 17025 standard. Applicants can opt for Home DNA testing by trusted agencies to obtain credible results without hassle. However, they must note that citizenship claims require legal and genealogical documentation.
Is the Testing Information Confidential?
Those who wish to apply for a DNA test for immigration must review the accuracy of birth, death and marriage records of the country they are currently citizens of. If DNA testing is necessary, applicants select the approved laboratory for the test. They provide the DNA sample to the agency using the kit and submit the resulting documents to the department. All the information and documentation that the applicants provide to the testing agency and the Department of Home Affairs are treated in the strictest of confidence by the experts and authorities. The department is bound by the 1988 Privacy act, which states how personal data and information must be handled in such situations.
