MAY 9, 2018

Can I Do a Sibling DNA Test for Immigration?

Can you do a sibling DNA test for immigration? Yes—according to a new U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) policy update. Positive results for a sibling  test for immigration or a half-sibling test are now accepted as proof of relationship, providing you test through an AABB-accredited laboratory. New threshold requirements for confirming a biological relationship have been announced, and if those requirements are met, results will be considered evidence for a beneficiary’s request to immigrate.

This policy update applies to immigration into the U.S. only.

Here are the details:

New Updates to USCIS Policy

Prior to 2018, if you needed a DNA test for immigration but your parents or grandparents weren’t living or available for testing, you didn’t have other DNA-testing options for obtaining proof of a biological relationship. Great news! On April 17, 2018, USCIS released a memorandum announcing specific standards for a sibling DNA test for immigration as well as testing for half-siblings.

READ FULL MEMORANDUM >

What You Need to Know about a Sibling DNA Test for Immigration

Here are the most important takeaways from the USCIS Memorandum:

• All testing must be performed at an AABB-accredited laboratory
• At least 20 loci (genetic markers) should be tested by the laboratory
• If a parent or grandparent is available for testing, that should remain the first choice for DNA testing for immigration
• Results for a full- or half-sibling DNA tests of 90% probability or higher are considered evidence of the claimed relationship
• In most cases, results below 9% probability of relationship indicate the claimed relationship does not exist
• In most cases, results between 9% and 89% probability of relationship are considered inconclusive and additional affirmation from the lab may be needed to establish the relationship. This is done either by testing extra genetic markers or by including more relatives in testing
• More is better! Chances of getting conclusive results go up when other relatives’ DNA is also included in the analysis, so testing against additional family members when possible is definitely encouraged by UCIS

Why You Should Choose DDC for your Sibling DNA Test

• DDC is AABB-accredited and one of the most trusted laboratories in the world for immigration DNA testing
• With 13 in-house PhDs, your test analysis is in good hands. In fact, our own Dr. Debra Davis was part of the AABB committee that helped develop USCIS standards for the sibling DNA test for immigration
• We test 24 information-rich genetic loci as our base number, and more if necessary
• We test until we get a definitive conclusion—we understand how important this is to you
• We have our own accredited collection sites in most major U.S. cities, including Chicago, Boston, Minneapolis, Newark, and Philadelphia (Find a location near you)
• DDC has over 20 years’ experience working with embassies around the world
• Your results are ready in just a few days

Final Thoughts about Doing a Sibling DNA Test with DDC

We have the resources and the highest levels of experience to ensure your test is done correctly from start to finish. Our expert staff is ready to help guide you through the process and is committed to making your test experience as stress-free as possible.

About DNA Diagnostics Center (DDC)

DNA Diagnostic Center is the world leader in paternity and relationship testing. We serve healthcare professionals, government agencies, and individuals around the world to determine family relationships with trusted accuracy.

More Questions? Don’t hesitate to call us: we’re here to help!