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Changes in collection of DNA samples establishing family ties – customers can now take the samples themselves

Publication date 10.5.2019 8.03
Press release

If a customer is applying for a residence permit on the basis of family ties but no reliable documents are available on the biological relationship of the family members, the Finnish Immigration Service can order a DNA analysis to investigate the relationship. The Finnish Immigration Service decides whether a DNA analysis needs to be performed.

After an amendment to the Aliens Act that entered into force on 1 May 2019, customers can take their DNA samples themselves. Before this, the sample could only be taken by a healthcare professional, and it could not be done at the service points of the Finnish Immigration Service.

The change has made the collection of DNA samples more flexible.

This is how it works:

  1. The Finnish Immigration Service sends you an invitation to a DNA test. The DNA sample can be collected either at a service point of the Finnish Immigration Service in Finland or at a Finnish embassy or consulate abroad. The invitation contains more detailed instructions for you.
  2. You will collect the sample under the supervision of an official. He or she will assist you if you need help with taking the sample.
  3. If the Finnish Immigration Service needs a DNA sample of your child who is under 18 years of age, you can take the sample of your child if you are his or her guardian. For children who do not have a guardian, the invitation is sent to the child’s representative.