The Y-DNA feature on MyHeritage allows eligible male DNA kit holders to explore their paternal haplogroup and lineage. This article explains who can access the feature, how to get started, and what to do in different situations.
To learn more about the feature itself: What is the Y-DNA feature on MyHeritage?
Where do I find the Y-DNA feature?
You can access the Y-DNA feature in the following ways, depending on the device you're using:
Please note: You will need to be logged in to access the Y-DNA feature. If you have Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) enabled on your account, you will be asked to verify your identity before proceeding.
🌐 On the desktop and mobile web
🌐 On the desktop and mobile web
Log in to your MyHeritage account
Hover over the "DNA" tab at the top of the page and select "Y-DNA" from the dropdown menu
You can also go directly to myheritage.com/dna/y-dna.
📱 On the mobile app
📱 On the mobile app
You can access the Y-DNA feature in two ways:
Option 1: Tap the DNA icon at the bottom of the screen, then slide on the screen to the "Y-DNA" tab on the next screen
Option 2: Tap the four squares icon (⊞) in the top left corner to open the main menu, then tap "DNA" and slide on the screen to the "Y-DNA" tab on the next screen
Who can use the Y-DNA feature?
The Y-DNA feature is available for eligible male DNA kits. A kit is eligible when:
The kit has been fully processed by the lab (Ethnicity Estimate results are available)
The kit belongs to a biological male
A Complete Plan or Omni Plan is active on the kit
💡 Please note: Even if a kit belongs to a biological male, Y-DNA results may not be available if the kit was for example processed using a non-compatible kit type, or if the DNA file was uploaded from a provider that did not capture the required Y-chromosome data. In these cases, you will see a message explaining this and will need a new DNA kit.
Y-DNA is only available for male DNA kits. If your kit belongs to a female, you can still explore your paternal line by testing a close male relative — your father, brother, grandfather, or paternal uncle.
Do I need a subscription?
Yes. Y-DNA results are included with the Complete Plan and Omni Plan. If you are not yet on one of these plans, you can upgrade at any time. See all available plans at myheritage.com/pricing.
How do I generate my Y-DNA results?
There is no need to take a new DNA test — your Y-haplogroup is calculated from your existing DNA data. The first time you visit the Y-DNA tab, you will be asked to give your consent before the calculation begins. This is a one-time step.
Go to the Y-DNA tab in your DNA section as described above
Click "Generate Y-DNA results"
Read and accept the consent information in the pop-up
Your haplogroup calculation will begin automatically
Your results will be ready within approximately 24 hours. You will receive an email notification as soon as they are available.
Is there a guide to help me understand my results?
Yes. The first time you view your Y-DNA results, a short tutorial will appear automatically to walk you through the feature. You can also reopen this tutorial at any time from within your results page if you'd like a refresher.
What does my status message mean?
When you visit the Y-DNA tab, you may see one of the following status messages depending on your kit's situation:
"Your DNA results are still being processed"
If your Ethnicity Estimate results are not yet available, the Y-DNA tab will not be active yet. Once your kit has been fully processed by the lab, the Y-DNA feature will become available automatically. No action is needed.
"We're calculating your Y-DNA results"
Your consent has been given and your results are being calculated. Your results will be ready within approximately 24 hours — you will receive an email notification as soon as they are ready.
"Y-DNA reports are only available for genetic males"
The Y-chromosome is passed from father to son, which means Y-DNA results can only be generated for male DNA kits. If your kit belongs to a female, you can still explore your paternal line by testing a close male relative — your father, brother, grandfather, or paternal uncle.
"The DNA kit is not eligible for Y-DNA reports"
In very rare cases, a kit may not include the Y chromosome data needed — for example, if the DNA was uploaded from a provider that did not analyze the Y chromosome. In such cases, you can order a new MyHeritage DNA kit.
"Your results are ready"
You will see the full Y-DNA experience, including your Haplogroup Story, Migration Map, Notable Connections, Ancient Connections, and Country Frequency.
Can I view Y-DNA results for a kit I manage?
Yes. If you manage DNA kits for other people, you can view their Y-DNA results by switching to their kit using the kit selector in the DNA section. Please note that results are only available for eligible male kits.
I manage a kit for someone else — will they be notified when results are ready?
Yes. Both you (as the kit manager) and the kit assignee will receive an email notification when the results are ready.