Providing DNA test results
You may be asked to have a DNA test to confirm a relationship when you apply for a visa. The test is optional.
When a DNA test is needed
When we process your visa application, we may ask you to have a DNA test. Normally, we would do this when there is no evidence of a relationship, or we need more information.
A DNA test is used to confirm a biological relationship where this is required for your visa application.
Alert
DNA tests are optional. If you are asked to have a test, you can choose not to, but the onus will be on you to provide other supporting evidence to demonstrate the family ties. This may cause delays with the processing of your application.
The test requires a quick swab of the inside of your mouth, and must be done:
- using standard procedures, and
- by a DNA sampler approved by Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
Find out more about DNA testing:
How a DNA test is arranged
1. We send you a request
We send you a request letter with a declaration for you to sign and return, along with details of the INZ-approved DNA sampler. If you do not want a test, you should advise the immigration officer of this by the 'return by' date.
2. You return your declaration with any payment
If you accept the test, send us your signed declaration and any payment before the 'return by' date.
3. We contact the DNA testing laboratory
We let the DNA testing laboratory and the DNA sampler know who they will be testing and their relationship to each other.
4. Your appointment is arranged
Once the DNA sampler has received the DNA sampling kit, they will contact you to book an appointment to attend the clinic.
5. We are sent your DNA test results
The DNA testing laboratory sends the results by post to the INZ branch processing your application.
The DNA testing laboratory and INZ cannot give out, or discuss, test results over the phone. If you wish to receive a copy of the results, you must submit an online request to INZ. Results will be provided to the applicant.
Request or change your personal information
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Destruction of all test results, samples, paperwork, and electronic files begins 3 months after we receive them, and is completed within 24 months.
Check the DNA testing guide for more information, including details about costs, what we do with your test results, and the results destruction process.
Voluntary DNA tests
You can choose to provide us with DNA results voluntarily, either when you submit your visa application or during the processing of your application.
Find out more about DNA testing: