AMERICAN CITIZENS SERVICES

DNA Testing

In citizenship cases, most laws require a blood relationship regardless of marital status to confer U.S. citizenship.  Therefore, though the offspring of a valid marriage are generally presumed to be the issue of the married parties, in cases where there are doubts, testing may be suggested.  The law puts the burden of proof upon the applicant to establish a claim to U.S. citizenship.

You should know that DNA testing can be expensive.  All expenses associated with DNA testing are the responsibility of the individuals tested.  For this reason it is suggested only when no other options appear to be available.  While we cannot require you to undergo this testing, we may not be able to continue processing your case without it.

The Department of State requires that DNA testing for visa and citizenship purposes be done by a laboratory accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks.  The Department has also determined that the DNA testing performed must utilize specific scientific methods.

Genetic testing involves coordination between an accredited laboratory in the United States and a Post Panel Physician.  You will need to select a facility from the list of accredited labs.  You will also need to select one of the panel physicians utilized by the Consular section.  The panel physician is responsible for drawing the blood and returning the results to the lab.  Once you have made these two choices and paid for your exam, please inform the Consular Section in writing of your selection. 
You can send your written notification by email (ACS.Managua@state.gov) or by mail:

American Citizens Services
Consular Section
U.S. Embassy
Km. 5 ½ Carretera Sur
Managua, Nicaragua

After preliminary arrangements have been made, the laboratory in the United States will send a testing kit and explicit instructions either directly to the panel physician or via the Consular Section.  After the samples have been taken, the panel physician will return the test kit directly to the appropriate laboratory by courier service and ensure that all documentation, including photos and fingerprints if required, accompany the test kit.  This documentation is needed to maintain the chain of custody of the test kit.

In making the choice to pursue this testing, please remember that we cannot guarantee that the tests will produce a favorable result that would allow us to issue a citizenship document.

For more information on DNA parentage testing, click here.

Any questions regarding genetic testing should be directed to the Chief of the American Citizen Services Section at ACS.Managua@state.gov or (505) 252-7100.