When you apply for a residence permit for the purpose of family reunification, the Directorate of Immigration (UDI) must ensure that the persons in question are related.
Most applicants will be able to document the family relationship through birth certificates, marriage certificates, household registers etc. Some applicants, however, have difficulty presenting certificates that carry sufficient value as evidence to be used in connection with case processing. For example, it may be the case that the applicant’s home country does not issue birth certificates or that it does not have a population register. Some certificates are also issued a long time after the date of birth and only on the basis of information provided by parents or the person to whom the certificate applies. Such conditions mean that Norwegian authorities cannot take the documents at face value without further investigation.
To determine family relationships
The UDI therefore requests a DNA analysis to establish whether the applicant is related to the person in Norway. We only request a DNA analysis if the family relationship has not been adequately documented by other means and if all the other conditions for family immigration have been met.
A DNA analysis can only be performed if the parties consent to it. If someone does not wish to take a DNA test, we request an explanation. We will then decide the case on the basis of the explanation and any other information and documents that have already been provided in the case.
How is a DNA analysis carried out?
When we perform a DNA analysis, we test genetic properties in the spit samples from the applicant and his/her family member in Norway. We take the spit samples by swabbing the inside of their cheeks with a cotton bud.
If the persons are related, some of their genes will match. On the basis of which genes they have in common, it is possible to establish whether the persons in question are parent and child, siblings or if they are otherwise related. The test can also show that two people are not related.
Where is the test carried out?
The DNA tests are taken at the Norwegian embassy from which the application was submitted, or in another place where the embassy's representative is present. In Norway, the spit sample is taken at the local police station.
How long does it take before the results of the tests are ready?
The time taken from the UDI sends the offer of a DNA analysis to the parties give their samples can vary. Among other things, it depends on how quickly the embassy/police are able to summon the persons in question.
DNA analyses for unaccompanied minor applicants are given priority, so these cases are normally processed more quickly than other cases.
Who pays for the test?
The UDI pays for the analysis when it requests the test. Travel expenses and expenses in connection with the stay at the embassy must be covered by the applicant.
