13.2 DNA testing of relatives
A relative or family member’s DNA can be very useful to DNA test results (i.e., mother of
dependent children being sponsored by father), even if that family member or relative is not
specifically involved with the sponsorship application (i.e., mother is previous spouse of sponsor).
Visa offices receiving requests to collect samples from one or more persons, who are not
necessarily involved with the file, should simply collect the samples. If there are serious doubts
about the need for testing any specific individual, they should not decide that someone’s sample
is not required. Rather they should first discuss their concerns with the DNA testing company or
ask their geographic desk to contact the DNA testing company on their behalf. This should be
done prior to setting up the appointments for sample collection.
Finally, it is not always necessary to request a specific DNA report for each person who is being
tested. If a paternity report is being requested and the mother is providing a sample (generally
always the case when testing relationships of dependent children), then a maternity report is not
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2008-11-03 44
necessarily required. DNA labs automatically include a covering letter with paternity reports
indicating any negative relationship results between the alleged mother and any of the children.
Otherwise, officers can assume that the alleged mother is the biological mother.
The following table of examples may help to clarify these issues.
DNA samples that may be requested and DNA reports that may not be required