How Canada Uses DNA Tests As Part Of Family Immigration and Citizenship Processing?

How Canada Uses DNA Tests As Part Of Family Immigration and Citizenship Processing?

Canada uses DNA tests to verify family relationships in case of insufficient documentation, particularly for family immigration and citizenship processing. IRCC approves and accepts DNA tests done in verified labs as proof of relationships. Individuals who fail to submit the required documentation as evidence of biological relationships for family immigration would be required to undergo the DNA tests.

DNA tests taken for family immigration and citizenship processing will be considered the last option to prove your relationship in the absence of necessary documentation, particularly for parent-child and sibling relations. Applicants must take complete responsibility and bear the full costs of the DNA test; failure to do so can delay visa applications and, in some cases, can also cause visa rejections.

*Want to migrate to Canada? Sign up with Y-Axis for complete assistance with the process.
 

What is the DNA test for immigrants?

Canada does not always ask for DNA tests for family immigration; the IRCC only requests a DNA test when the submitted documentation, such as adoption papers or birth certificates, fails to confirm family ties or relationships between the sponsor and applicant. Before requesting a DNA test, authorities will conduct an interview and issue a Procedural Fairness Letter (PFL). Applicants who do not clear this will have to undergo a DNA test, which will be the last option to legally confirm the relationship.

The IRCC officials will explain their concerns regarding the application and reasons for needing a DNA test. Applicants who are asked to take the DNA test are always given an option of whether or not to get it done. Those who voluntarily do it will have a chance of testifying their relationship, while those who opt out often end up with refused applications because they cannot prove their relationships.  

Who may be tested?

Generally, parent-child, siblings, and other kinship relationships are asked to undergo a DNA test for family immigration and citizenship processing.

Parent-child relationships:

• Child
• Mother & father (if required and possible)

Note: The DNA test can also be done in the absence or unavailability of one parent.
 

Siblings and other relationships:

• Siblings
• Parents (or their siblings)
• Other relatives or kinship (blood relatives)
   

*Need assistance with Canada immigration? Consult experts at Y-Axis to help you with the process.
 

DNA Testing process in Canada

DNA testing is an official process required for Canadian immigration. It must be done when the applicant cannot submit proper documentation to prove the relationship between themselves and the sponsor. It is mainly done as part of family immigration and the Canadian citizenship process. The DNA test can be done from within Canada and overseas. The process usually involves collecting cheek swabs with a buccal swab, followed by a chain of custody protocol to ensure the sample is intact.  

Given below is a complete step-by-step guide to help you understand the DNA testing process:

DNA Test in Canada 

Here is a step-by-step process of how the DNA test is done in Canada:

Step 1: IRCC issues a DNA letter to the applicant or client

Step 2: The applicant chooses an SCC-accredited lab

Step 3: An appointment will be booked for the DNA sample submission

Step 4: The applicant must arrange the requirements for the DNA test (IRCC-issued DNA letter, two ID proofs, two copies of the latest passport-sized photographs, and a signed consent form confirming your approval for the test)

Step 5: The applicant attends the appointment and submits the above requirements

Step 6: Await the results.

Things the lab must do:

• The lab must properly verify the applicant’s identity and the documentation
• The sample kit must be untouched and not tampered with
• Complete the custody record
• The sample must be sent to the lab via fast shipping in a secure manner
• The samples must be delivered within 7 days

Here is a step-by-step process of how the DNA test can be done outside Canada:

DNA test for immigration:

Step 1: IRCC contacts the migration offices abroad and coordinates with them

Step 2: Applicants can then schedule a DNA test at the nearest local migration office

Step 3: The migration officer will be present throughout the collection and oversee the shipping of the sample.

DNA test for Citizenship:

• The DNA test will be managed by the migration or Canadian consular offices
• The coordination of the process will be done based on the applicant’s location and the parent in Canada

The IRCC provides remote witnessing for the DNA sample collection, which will be done via the International Organization for Migration (IOM) at select locations. The DNA test samples will be collected on site, and the video taken will be verified and approved by the immigration officer.

Also read…

How to get Canadian citizenship after Canadian immigration?
 

Who is authorized to conduct the DNA tests?

Many Canadian organizations and companies are permitted to conduct DNA tests for immigrants. Private companies in Canada, like Forensics Canada Inc. and Canadian DNA Services, are authorized to perform the DNA tests. However, Standards Council of Canada (SCC) accredited labs will only be accepted by the IRCC. Registered DNA experts from these companies will collect the samples from the testing labs and send them to the respective workplaces.
 

How much does a DNA test cost in Canada?

No standard fee is set for the DNA test, as it is only required upon IRCC request. The cost of the DNA test may differ based on the lab and generally range from CAD 400 to CAD 800 for a single test. The cost may also vary based on the relationship to be tested and the total number of individuals doing the test.

What should you do when you receive a notice for the DNA test?

A notice for a DNA test is usually issued only when IRCC needs further verification of the relationship between the applicant and the sponsor.

Here are some steps you can follow when you receive a notice for the DNA test:

Step 1: Understand the nature of the notice

You must first determine whether the notice was court-ordered (mandatory) or a voluntary request (optional)

Step 2: Be thorough with the legal and financial outcomes

You would be required to go to a court and a judge who has ordered the test, whereas for a voluntary request, refusing to take the test can affect the process for which the test is being done.

Step 3: If you decide to take up the test

First, locate a lab accredited by trusted organizations such as the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB). Then, submit the DNA samples to the healthcare provider, who will send them to a lab for analysis.

Step 4: Consult experts (if required)

Consult a trusted advocate if the test is needed for legal proceedings.
 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance in applying for Canada PR? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!