We don’t post about many Home Office policy updates but this one is one to be aware of. Changes to DNA policy guidance as follows:

Page 6, reference to DNA profile not revealing certain characteristics of a person who provides a DNA sample for testing.
Page 7, guidance on who is entitled to see the results of a DNA test.
Page 8, reference to funding the costs of witnesses
Page 12, new sub-section on accreditation held by DNA testing laboratories.
Page 12-14, updated guidance on collecting the DNA samples covering situations when the Home Office is in the possession of the applicant’s identification document and handling children aged under 16.
Page 15, new section to replace DNA: Unavailability of a family member with DNA: Other biological relationships
Page 16-18, advice on DNA test results and checking the authenticity of a DNA test report with the DNA testing laboratory.
Page 20, template amended to inform applicants on how to obtain a DNA test and that we will verify the report with the DNA testing laboratory.
Page 21, template to refer suspicious DNA test reports to laboratories Page 22, model letters on suitably accredited laboratories.
Page 23-24, model letters on disregarding DNA evidence where the identity of a person who has provided a DNA sample cannot be verified
Page 25, information on essential information.

The guidance was first introduced at the end of 2018 following a scandal over unlawful demands for visa applicants to take DNA tests to prove family relationships.