IFG – Institut für forensische Genetik Münster, Prof. Dr. Bernd Brinkmann

IFG – Institut für forensische Genetik Münster, Prof. Dr. Bernd Brinkmann » For family reunifications

For family reunifications

Information regarding assessments for the clarification of familial relationships in the context of immigration cases and family reunifications

The IFG can provide extrajudicial parentage assessments. This involves the assessment of human genetic inheritance (DNA). Our assessments are made according to all recognised standards. The IFG follows the guidelines created by the Federal Office of Health in 2002 and the German Genetic Diagnosis Act of 2009, as well as the guidelines of the Genetic Diagnosis Commission.

Two results are possible:

  1. The confirmation of a familial relationship (e.g. maternity, paternity, confirmation of the relationship with a child, cousins, aunts and uncles), in particular, e.g. confirmation that a child is descended from you, or
  2. Exclusion of a familial relationship, e.g. exclusion of paternity.

There are different types of parentage assessments:

  1. Normal cases, including mother, child(ren), possible father
  2. Simple deficient cases: only one parent and the child(ren) are available
  3. Complex deficient cases: both parents are missing so only the relationship between a child and a grandparent (or aunt/uncle, etc.) or between children can be assessed.

Further explanation

The examination is carried out using material gathered with an oral swab. In Germany, samples are generally taken by doctors affiliated with health authorities or by us. For those living abroad, samples are usually taken by doctors known to, and trusted by, embassies and consulates. When samples are taken, measures to ascertain the identity of the person providing the sample are implemented, including official documentation and, where appropriate, the submission of signatures, photos, fingerprints, etc. Fees for taking samples and the confirmation of identities are to be paid directly to the doctor taking the sample.

We provide the doctor with all of the required containers and documentation in advance. Testing and the completion of a report take approx. one-to-two weeks from the receipt of all the necessary samples.

In normal cases, 16 DNA systems (so called STR systems) are tested. In case the familial relationship is not excluded, the probability of the postulated familial relationship is calculated, among other things. Values of over 99.999996 percent are regularly ascertained using this process.

When an order is placed, the personal details of all the parties involved should be submitted in writing, along with the suspected/claimed familial relationships and the required information (an example can be downloaded here).

A reference number from the responsible immigration authority should be supplied by the client. We assume that the client agrees for copies of the assessment to be sent to the relevant authorities (e.g. embassies, immigration authorities). If this is not the case, we request information to this effect from the client.

The expected cost of the DNA test is to be paid by the client before the investigation can begin. The prices of these services can be found in our current price list. Fees are payable when the order is placed.

We are happy to advise you regarding our services and the cost of the procedure.

You can contact us by telephone on weekdays between 9am and 4pm, or by email via info@ifg-ms.de.

Mrs Komnick, Prof. Dr. med. Bernd Brinkmann’s office,
Tel. 0049 2534 53869-10