*/
Scientific advances in DNA analysis make it easier than ever to establish a relationship between family members in support of immigration applications. However, the use of DNA evidence in immigration cases has not been without controversy. In 2018, Home Secretary Sajid Javid was forced to apologise when it was revealed that a significant number of immigrants had been advised that DNA testing was mandatory for certain family visa applications, without any legal basis for such a requirement. In fact, the submission of DNA evidence in support of an immigration application is entirely voluntary, with Home Office DNA policy guidance later being updated to acknowledge that the department did not have the power to make such a request.
While documents such as birth or marriage certificates will usually be enough to prove a relationship for immigration cases, DNA tests can prove invaluable, provided the applicant has independently decided to submit DNA evidence to support a relationship (they cannot be asked to do so by officials).
For example, if a child is born abroad to UK citizens and parents are seeking citizenship for the child, a paternity or maternity test can confirm parentage. If a relative plans to move to the UK and they want to submit DNA evidence to confirm a familial relationship (where a UK citizen is sponsoring them for citizenship or a visa), they may decide to have a complex relationship DNA test. These types of tests can be used to verify a biological relationship between siblings, grandparents and grandchildren, nieces/nephews and uncle(s)/aunt(s) or even tell us the likelihood of two or more people being cousins.
In recent years, we have seen an increase in demand for complex relationship testing, as UK citizens make a case for bringing members of their extended family to the UK. In the past such tests could only draw one of two conclusions – whether the subjects were related or unrelated. However, technological advances mean we are now able to paint a more complete picture of a person’s family tree. For example, if a person is seeking UK citizenship for multiple children, DNA testing would be able to determine which of those children are sons or daughters, or if any the children are in fact more likely to be nieces or nephews of the applicant.
Whatever the circumstances, it is important to note that DNA tests for this purpose must meet a certain standard to be provided as evidence. This includes the requirement for the test to be performed by a Home Office approved ISO 17025-accredited testing laboratory, and for samples to be collected under strict chain of custody conditions.
When performing DNA testing for immigration, a cheek (buccal) swab is rubbed on the inside of each donor’s cheek to obtain DNA for analysis. The DNA samples of the individuals are then analysed and compared to determine whether they share enough matching DNA markers (alleles). If they share enough DNA markers, they are likely to be biologically related (eg parent and child, aunt/uncle and niece/nephew, full or half-siblings, cousins etc.). An AlphaBiolabs DNA test can analyse and compare up to 42 DNA markers for a conclusive result.
When testing a person in a foreign country, a Home Office approved laboratory will be well-versed in collecting DNA samples from individuals living abroad. A sample collection kit is sent to the required foreign location, and an appointment can be arranged via a local GP, medical practice, hospital, or another approved clinic in the applicant’s country. The DNA samples are then collected (both in the UK and abroad) under chain of custody, with the donors required to provide a form of ID, and two passport sized photos that are signed by the collector at the time the samples are obtained.
Using the very latest scientific methods for DNA analysis, we can verify how individuals are related, strengthen immigration applications, and reunite families with their loved ones in the UK.
For expert advice on which DNA test is best for your client, call the AlphaBiolabs Customer Services team on 0330 600 1300 or email testing@alphabiolabs.com and a member of the legal sales team will be in touch.
For further information please visit: https://www.alphabiolabs.co.uk
As a UKAS-accredited testing laboratory, AlphaBiolabs has worked with British Embassies and some of the largest specialist immigration solicitors in the UK for 18 years. Our DNA immigration tests are recognised and admissible to UK courts, the Ministry of Justice, the UK Visas and Immigration Service and HM Passport Office. We operate alongside a large international network of sample collectors, who work closely with immigration centres, consulates, and embassies worldwide to ensure a fast and efficient service, collecting samples from over 90 different countries worldwide. We also offer free sample collection for legal clients at our walk-in centres across the UK.
Scientific advances in DNA analysis make it easier than ever to establish a relationship between family members in support of immigration applications. However, the use of DNA evidence in immigration cases has not been without controversy. In 2018, Home Secretary Sajid Javid was forced to apologise when it was revealed that a significant number of immigrants had been advised that DNA testing was mandatory for certain family visa applications, without any legal basis for such a requirement. In fact, the submission of DNA evidence in support of an immigration application is entirely voluntary, with Home Office DNA policy guidance later being updated to acknowledge that the department did not have the power to make such a request.
While documents such as birth or marriage certificates will usually be enough to prove a relationship for immigration cases, DNA tests can prove invaluable, provided the applicant has independently decided to submit DNA evidence to support a relationship (they cannot be asked to do so by officials).
For example, if a child is born abroad to UK citizens and parents are seeking citizenship for the child, a paternity or maternity test can confirm parentage. If a relative plans to move to the UK and they want to submit DNA evidence to confirm a familial relationship (where a UK citizen is sponsoring them for citizenship or a visa), they may decide to have a complex relationship DNA test. These types of tests can be used to verify a biological relationship between siblings, grandparents and grandchildren, nieces/nephews and uncle(s)/aunt(s) or even tell us the likelihood of two or more people being cousins.
In recent years, we have seen an increase in demand for complex relationship testing, as UK citizens make a case for bringing members of their extended family to the UK. In the past such tests could only draw one of two conclusions – whether the subjects were related or unrelated. However, technological advances mean we are now able to paint a more complete picture of a person’s family tree. For example, if a person is seeking UK citizenship for multiple children, DNA testing would be able to determine which of those children are sons or daughters, or if any the children are in fact more likely to be nieces or nephews of the applicant.
Whatever the circumstances, it is important to note that DNA tests for this purpose must meet a certain standard to be provided as evidence. This includes the requirement for the test to be performed by a Home Office approved ISO 17025-accredited testing laboratory, and for samples to be collected under strict chain of custody conditions.
When performing DNA testing for immigration, a cheek (buccal) swab is rubbed on the inside of each donor’s cheek to obtain DNA for analysis. The DNA samples of the individuals are then analysed and compared to determine whether they share enough matching DNA markers (alleles). If they share enough DNA markers, they are likely to be biologically related (eg parent and child, aunt/uncle and niece/nephew, full or half-siblings, cousins etc.). An AlphaBiolabs DNA test can analyse and compare up to 42 DNA markers for a conclusive result.
When testing a person in a foreign country, a Home Office approved laboratory will be well-versed in collecting DNA samples from individuals living abroad. A sample collection kit is sent to the required foreign location, and an appointment can be arranged via a local GP, medical practice, hospital, or another approved clinic in the applicant’s country. The DNA samples are then collected (both in the UK and abroad) under chain of custody, with the donors required to provide a form of ID, and two passport sized photos that are signed by the collector at the time the samples are obtained.
Using the very latest scientific methods for DNA analysis, we can verify how individuals are related, strengthen immigration applications, and reunite families with their loved ones in the UK.
For expert advice on which DNA test is best for your client, call the AlphaBiolabs Customer Services team on 0330 600 1300 or email testing@alphabiolabs.com and a member of the legal sales team will be in touch.
For further information please visit: https://www.alphabiolabs.co.uk
As a UKAS-accredited testing laboratory, AlphaBiolabs has worked with British Embassies and some of the largest specialist immigration solicitors in the UK for 18 years. Our DNA immigration tests are recognised and admissible to UK courts, the Ministry of Justice, the UK Visas and Immigration Service and HM Passport Office. We operate alongside a large international network of sample collectors, who work closely with immigration centres, consulates, and embassies worldwide to ensure a fast and efficient service, collecting samples from over 90 different countries worldwide. We also offer free sample collection for legal clients at our walk-in centres across the UK.
The Chair of the Bar sets out how the new government can restore the justice system
In the first of a new series, Louise Crush of Westgate Wealth considers the fundamental need for financial protection
Unlocking your aged debt to fund your tax in one easy step. By Philip N Bristow
Possibly, but many barristers are glad he did…
Mental health charity Mind BWW has received a £500 donation from drug, alcohol and DNA testing laboratory, AlphaBiolabs as part of its Giving Back campaign
The Institute of Neurotechnology & Law is thrilled to announce its inaugural essay competition
How to navigate open source evidence in an era of deepfakes. By Professor Yvonne McDermott Rees and Professor Alexa Koenig
Brie Stevens-Hoare KC and Lyndsey de Mestre KC take a look at the difficulties women encounter during the menopause, and offer some practical tips for individuals and chambers to make things easier
Sir Geoffrey Vos, Master of the Rolls and Head of Civil Justice since January 2021, is well known for his passion for access to justice and all things digital. Perhaps less widely known is the driven personality and wanderlust that lies behind this, as Anthony Inglese CB discovers
The Chair of the Bar sets out how the new government can restore the justice system
No-one should have to live in sub-standard accommodation, says Antony Hodari Solicitors. We are tackling the problem of bad housing with a two-pronged approach and act on behalf of tenants in both the civil and criminal courts
-(1)-(002).tmb-carlisting79eb.png){kind=logo}
