Maine’s immigrant families seeking to reunite with loved ones abroad often face the challenge of proving biological relationships when applying for an immigrant visa or Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA). DNA testing is a voluntary option suggested by USCIS or the U.S. embassy that can be used as proof when primary evidence is insufficient.
In Maine, immigrants comprise approximately 4.7% of the population. Many of these families petition to bring relatives to the United States. DNA testing is an excellent option that could strengthen your case for family reunification.
Below USI DNA provides an overview on what you can expect from the immigration DNA testing process for both domestic )all parties are located in the U.S. or domestic (the petitioner in the U.S. and the beneficiary lives abroad).
What is the cost of DNA testing for immigration in Maine?
The cost for a DNA test for immigration purposes will vary depending on your circumstance. Contact our office at 800-219-4584 to inquire about pricing.
What types of Family Reunification DNA Tests can be performed?
The commonly suggested tests performed for family reunification cases are:
| Paternity Testing | This testing option determines a biological relationship between the alleged father and a child. Pricing starts at $495.00 |
| Maternity Testing | This testing option determines a biological relationship between the mother and her child. Pricing starts at $495.00 |
| Sibling DNA Testing | This testing option determines a biological relationship between two siblings. Pricing starts at $595.00 |
| Grandparent DNA Testing | This testing option determines a biological relationship between a grandparent and grandchild. Pricing starts at $595.00 |
All DNA Testing we provide are performed by a partner AABB accredited laboratory.
What is the method used to collect DNA samples?
The commonly used method of DNA specimen collection is performed by cheek swab. The swab is placed inside of the mouth and brushed against the cheek on both the left and right cheek.
Although there are other methods of specimen collection options like blood. The cheek swab collection method is preferred over blood because it is easier, less invasive and painless. It should be noted cheek swabs and blood have the same accuracy.
Sample Collection Process For Relationship DNA Testing:
Petitioner (Domestic DNA Sample Collection in the United States)
- The petitioner must receive a document requesting additional evidence from either USCIS and U.S. Passport Agency to initiate the DNA testing process.
- Contact our office at 800-219-4584 to get started.
- Submit your Request for Evidence (RFE) and contact details for both the petitioner and beneficiary for review.
- Next, the lab will perform a case initiation and sample collection appointments will be coordinated.
- After all samples are collected they will be shipped to the lab for analysis.
- Upon the completion of your analysis, your results will be sent by the lab directly to the requesting immigration agency (USCIS or Passport Agency) and an additional copy of your results will be mailed to your home and an additional copy will be sent by email.
Below is the DNA specimen collection process for the beneficiary abroad.
Beneficiary Immigrant Visa Applicant (DNA Sample Collection Internationally)
- The petitioner or beneficiary must receive a document requesting additional evidence from either USCIS, U.S. Embassy or consulate to initiate the DNA testing process.
- Contact our office at 800-219-4584 to get started.
- Submit your Request for Evidence (RFE) or letter for the embassy suggesting a DNA Test be performed and contact details for both the petitioner and beneficiary for review.
- Next, the lab will perform a case initiation and sample collection appointments will be coordinated.
- After the petitioner’s case initiation is performed a DNA sample collection appointment will be scheduled at a facility near your home.
- Next, the lab will ship a DNA test and sample collection request to the U.S. embassy or U.S. consulate abroad.
- Upon receipt of the DNA sample collection request by the embassy. The embassy is responsible for scheduling DNA sample collection appointments abroad and the laboratory.
- After the beneficiary’s samples are collected they will be shipped to the laboratory in the United States for testing analysis.
- Once the lab receives all the specimen samples DNA testing and analysis will begin. Upon the completion of your DNA analysis of your results will be sent to USCIS or U.S. Embassy or Consular Section.
Where can I get DNA testing done in Maine?
Scheduling a sample collection appointment is simple. Call 800-219-4584 to get started. We have access to thousands collection sites in our network near every major city nationwide. Below are the largest common immigrant group countries in Maine.
Click here to see additional countries we provide immigration DNA testing services.
How long will it take for my DNA results to be completed?
DNA results are completed within three business days on average. In cases where the lab requires extended testing you will be notified.
Please keep in mind that international DNA sample collection appointments abroad have a turnaround time of 6 to 8 weeks, sometimes longer depending on the embassy’s workload.
Frequent Asked Questions
Does USCIS suggest DNA Testing for Maine residents?
Yes. USCIS may suggest DNA testing when you submit insufficient evidence with your immigrant visa application. The agency will send an office action (such as Form I-130) that provides DNA testing as an option.
Important considerations:
- DNA testing is voluntary
- Testing does not guarantee visa or CRBA approval
- We recommend you wait to receive an office action before testing prematurely. Doing so may require you to perform a DNA test again.
Does the lab send my DNA results to immigration?
Yes. Upon completion of your DNA analysis the lab will send a copy of your results to the immigration office.
Will my DNA results be accepted by USCIS or the US embassy?
Yes. All legal DNA testing that is performed by our partner AABB accredited laboratory is accepted but USCIS, Passport Agencies and U.S. embassies worldwide.
The accreditation is the governing body government agencies trust to ensure proper chain of custody protocols are met. It should be noted, results from an accredited laboratory do not guarantee visa or CRBA acceptance.
How accurate are my DNA Testing results?
Our AABB-accredited partner laboratory delivers results with 99.99% or higher probability of biological relationship. This accuracy level meets USCIS requirements for visa and CRBA applications.
Customer Support
To learn more about DNA testing for immigrant visa and CRBA purposes call 800-219-4584 and allow one of our DNA Consultants to assist you today.