Immigration testing for Visas and Citizenship in Australia

Immigration authorities in Australia may require you to back any immigration documents provided with the results of an immigration DNA test. This is especially relevant if you seek to join a relative and intent abiding to rules imposed by Department of Immigration and Citizenship in Australia.

Immigration DNA testing is not a necessity; there is no law saying that you must do it. In most cases, it is the immigration authorities themselves who will recommend doing the test. Applicants can decide not to take a DNA test. In this case authorities will need to base their acceptance or refusal of immigration into Australia based upon the information available to them from other sources at the time of application. A paternity test is just one means of proving your relationship to another person to the Australia Authorities. The need for a DNA test is very much dependent on the country of origin. Ask yourself:

•  How accurate are birth records, death records and marriage records in my country?
•  Do I have access to these documents?
• Are they considered acceptable by the Australia authorities?
• How to select a laboratory to do your test

The below is clearly stated on the Department’s website:

“If the department suggests an applicant undertakes DNA testing, the applicant needs to choose a DNA testing laboratory that has been accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia (NATA)” – see: Fact sheet

DNA testing companies that have NATA accreditation will clearly state this important accreditation on their page for immigration.

People living abroad and requiring an immigration test will need to have a kit sent to the nearest embassy or consulate. The sampling will be carried out by a neutral third party – in most cases there will be an added cost for the sample collection. View a complete list of Australia embassies and consulates.

Confidentiality for Immigration applications

All the documents and information you provide, including the results of your DNA test, will be treated in the strictest confidence. The Australia Department of immigration and Citizenship is bound by the Privacy Act of 1988. The Act regulates how personal information and data is used by government agencies. If you have an queries, the act stipulates the right of any Australia to know how their personal information is being collected, for what reasons and how exactly it will be used.

DNA testing samples

Samples for a DNA test are collected by using oral swabs. Oral swabs need to be rubbed under the tongue and against your inner cheek for around 10 seconds in order to collect exfoliated cheek cells. The samples will then be sealed in appropriate envelopes and labeled according to a strict protocol and sent for laboratory analysis. Counseling is also made available once the DNA test results are known.