To help your DNA sample reach us safely and be processed without delay, please take a moment to review the following information.
Kit and Sample Timeframes
Your kit, if unopened, must be used and returned within one year of purchase.
Once you've taken your sample, the swab must be tested within six months.
Activate Your Kit First
Before sending your sample back, please activate your kit at www.livingdna.com/activate. This step is essential, as it links your sample to your Living DNA account.
If we receive a sample that hasn't been activated or we’re unable to match it to a user, we’ll hold the swab securely for 30 days. If it still hasn’t been claimed after that time, the sample will be safely destroyed.
Posting Your Sample
Your kit may include a prepaid return envelope, depending on your region. All prepaid returns are sent using standard, untracked post.
From within the UK or USA, samples typically take 5–7 working days to reach us.
From other countries, it may take 14–25 working days, depending on customs and local postal services.
If you're located outside the UK, USA, or EU (other than Germany), you'll need to return your sample using a postal service of your choice. You may prefer to use a tracked service to ensure your sample reaches us without delay, especially if your country has longer or less predictable delivery times.
Customs and Legal Considerations
We’re able to ship our DNA collection kits to most countries. However, returning your sample to us may be subject to customs regulations in your country. We recommend contacting your local authority for guidance on sending cheek swab samples abroad.
Please also note that personal DNA testing, including for recreational or ancestry purposes, is not legal in every country. Before ordering a kit or returning a sample, make sure it is lawful to take this kind of test and receive results in your location. For your own protection, we advise against using our service in any country where it is not legally permitted.
Holiday Posting
During November and December, postal services may experience delays due to the holiday season. If you’re posting your sample around this time, please allow extra time and check with your local postal service for the most up-to-date information.