What entity has jurisdiction over the Form I-485 if the applicant has never been in exclusion, deportation, or removal proceedings?

The correct answer identifies USCIS as the entity that has jurisdiction over the Form I-485 in situations where the applicant has not been involved in exclusion, deportation, or removal proceedings. The Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is typically processed by USCIS because it falls under the agency's responsibility to adjudicate applications for adjustment of status. This process allows individuals in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status while remaining in the country.

USCIS is the primary agency that administers immigration services, ensuring that applications, such as the Form I-485, comply with immigration law and policy. Therefore, in cases where an applicant does not have any prior proceedings that would involve jurisdiction from other entities, USCIS holds the authority to process their adjustment of status application.

The Department of Labor focuses on employment-related immigration matters, such as labor certifications, but does not handle adjustment of status applications. The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) oversees immigration courts and provides jurisdiction in cases concerning removal proceedings, which is not applicable here. Federal Courts typically involve appeals and judicial reviews of decisions made by USCIS or EOIR rather than processing adjustment applications directly.