DNA Testing Aids in Legitimizing International Adoptions

DNA testing is becoming more frequently used in international adoption cases to

confirm adoptee eligibility, and eliminate human trafficking schemes. A DNA test is
used to establish a biological relationship between prospective adoptive children
and their parents who voluntarily consented to adoption.

In adoption cases where a birth parent has been identified, the prospective
adoptive parents, their attorney, or the adoption agency must contact the USCIS
office at the Embassy through which the adoption is being arranged. Once the
Embassy identifies the child and accepts the request, they may provide
authorization to have DNA samples collected. At that point, either the adoption
agency or the prospective adoptive parents must contact an AABB accredited
laboratory to perform the test. Once selected, the laboratory generally will submit
a DNA sample collection kit to the Embassy or appointed panel physician for use in
collecting the DNA samples from the child and his/her birth parent(s). In addition to
collecting the DNA samples, chain of custody paperwork must be completed and
photos taken of the individuals at the time of sample collection. The collecting
agent will package the samples and all documents and return the kit to the
laboratory to perform the test. Once the results are available, the laboratory must
forward them to the USCIS office of the Embassy. Then, once the Embassy receives
results which confirm a biological relationship, they may either approve the case or
refer it for further investigation. Sometimes, an interview is required with the birth
parent to confirm his/her full and irrevocable abandonment of the child or to
determine whether the child can be legally classified as an orphan.

The costs of DNA testing and related expenses (such as doctor's fees and the cost
of transmitting testing materials and DNA samples) must be borne by the
petitioner.

In some cases, the Embassy may require a second DNA test, to verify that the
adopted child for whom an immigrant visa is being requested is the same child
matched at the beginning of the adoption process with the birth parent.

The DNA Identity Testing Center of Bio-Synthesis, Inc. is an active member of the
AABB Relationship Testing Accreditation Program and actively participates in
proficiency testing by the College of American Pathologists. With nearly 15 years
experience in the DNA testing field, law enforcement, legal representatives and
individuals alike trust BSI with their private and legal DNA testing issues,
worldwide.
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