DNA testing has become one of the most reliable ways to prove biological relationships for U.S. immigration and visa applications.
If traditional documents (like birth certificates or family records) are unavailable or questioned, the USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) may request a DNA relationship test to verify family ties.
In this article, DNA Centers USA explains the complete process — from requirements to costs and how to get your test approved in 2025.
Why USCIS Requires DNA Testing
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) and USCIS use DNA tests as a supplemental form of evidence when:
- There are missing or unreliable birth records
- The relationship between petitioner and beneficiary needs scientific confirmation
- The case involves family reunification, visa sponsorship, or green card applications
A DNA test provides 99.99% certainty of a biological connection and is recognized by U.S. embassies and immigration authorities worldwide.
What Is an Immigration DNA Test
An Immigration DNA Test verifies a biological relationship between:
- Parent and child
- Siblings
- Grandparents and grandchildren
- Other claimed family members
Unlike home kits, these tests must be done by AABB-accredited laboratories to ensure authenticity and traceability — otherwise, USCIS will not accept the results.
📍 DNA Centers USA partners exclusively with AABB-certified labs, ensuring that all results meet USCIS and embassy standards.
Documents Required
To start the process, you’ll need:
- Photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or green card)
- USCIS or embassy case number
- Signed consent form for each participant
- Petitioner and beneficiary contact information
Each sample is collected under chain-of-custody to ensure legal validity.
Step-by-Step Immigration DNA Test Process (2025)
Here’s exactly how it works:
1. USCIS or Embassy Recommends DNA Testing
If you submitted insufficient evidence, the immigration office sends a Request for Evidence (RFE) recommending DNA testing.
2. Choose an AABB-Accredited Lab
Contact an approved provider like DNA Centers USA, which manages testing nationwide and coordinates with U.S. embassies abroad.
3. Sample Collection in the U.S.
For petitioners in the U.S., DNA samples are collected at a certified collection center.
Each participant must show a valid ID and case number.
4. Sample Collection Abroad
If the beneficiary lives outside the U.S., DNA Centers USA sends a test kit to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country.
A trained official collects the sample and ships it back securely to the accredited U.S. lab.
5. Laboratory Analysis
The DNA is analyzed for 16–21 genetic markers using advanced PCR methods.
Results are cross-checked for precision and certified by the AABB laboratory.
6. Result Submission
Once completed, the results are:
- Sent directly from the lab to the USCIS or Embassy (to prevent tampering)
- A copy is also provided to the petitioner for personal records
Immigration DNA Test Cost (2025)
| Test Type | Price Range | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Parent-Child (U.S.–Overseas) | $450 – $600 | 2–3 weeks |
| Sibling DNA Test | $500 – $650 | 3 weeks |
| Grandparent DNA Test | $450 – $600 | 3 weeks |
| Extra Sample (additional family member) | +$100 | — |
💡 Expedited processing (7–10 business days) is available for urgent USCIS or embassy deadlines.
🕒 How Long Does It Take?
Typical processing time:
- Sample Collection: 3–5 days (domestic & international coordination)
- Lab Analysis: 7–10 days
- Official Report Delivery: 2–3 days
Total: Around 2–3 weeks depending on embassy response time.
📍 Where Is DNA Testing Done?
DNA Centers USA provides nationwide collection sites in all major U.S. states:
- California (Los Angeles, San Diego)
- Texas (Dallas, Houston)
- New York
- Florida (Miami, Tampa)
- Illinois (Chicago)
We also coordinate with over 90 U.S. Embassies and Consulates worldwide, ensuring a smooth global testing process.
Why Choose DNA Centers USA for Immigration DNA Tests
Here’s what makes us trusted by thousands of immigration lawyers and families:
✔ AABB-accredited laboratory
✔ USCIS & Embassy-approved procedures
✔ Direct result submission to immigration offices
✔ Fast, confidential, and accurate testing
✔ Bilingual support for clients abroad
We handle the entire process — from test scheduling to embassy coordination — so you can focus on your immigration journey.
Legal Validity and Data Security
All immigration DNA tests follow strict chain-of-custody procedures.
Results are transmitted directly to government authorities, ensuring integrity and authenticity.
Your DNA data remains fully confidential and is never stored or shared beyond the authorized immigration purpose.
“We couldn’t find my son’s birth certificate from the Philippines. DNA Centers USA coordinated directly with the U.S. Embassy in Manila — and our results were approved by USCIS in just 18 days.”
— Miguel R., Los Angeles, CA
🧭 Tips for a Smooth Immigration DNA Test
- Always use AABB-approved labs.
- Don’t send home kit results — they are not accepted.
- Double-check your USCIS or embassy case number before testing.
- Keep copies of all correspondence and receipts.
- Book early — embassy scheduling may take 1–2 weeks.
Immigration DNA testing can seem complex, but with the right guidance, it’s a straightforward process.
Choosing an AABB-certified provider like DNA Centers USA ensures that your results are accurate, accepted, and legally valid — giving you peace of mind during your immigration journey.