Rise in DNA Testing for Citizenship
- More people are using DNA tests to claim citizenship of other countries.
- Some individuals are driven by the desire to uncover their ancestry, while others hope to regain access to the EU due to Brexit.
- This trend reflects a growing interest in using genetic testing for legal purposes.
In a growing trend, individuals are increasingly utilizing DNA test results to apply for citizenship in various countries, according to experts in genetics. Professor Turi King from Bath University highlights that as more people engage in ancestry testing, they are discovering their biological roots, which can serve as evidence for citizenship claims. This phenomenon is expected to expand as the popularity of genetic testing rises. Historically, many unmarried Irish mothers were pressured into giving up their children for adoption in Britain, leading to complex familial ties. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that applicants for Irish citizenship are now leveraging DNA evidence to substantiate their claims, with such documentation being accepted in passport applications. This shift marks a significant change in how citizenship can be established. Richard Sayers, a participant in the 2022 show "DNA Family Secrets," exemplifies this trend. After uncovering his father's identity through DNA testing, Sayers successfully petitioned the British courts to amend his birth certificate, allowing him to claim his rightful heritage. He expressed a long-held desire to live abroad, reflecting a common aspiration among those seeking citizenship through newfound familial connections. Experts predict that the number of citizenship applications based on DNA evidence will continue to rise, driven by personal identity, heritage, and inheritance claims. As more individuals undertake genetic testing, the intersection of ancestry and legal citizenship is likely to become a prominent issue in immigration discussions.