Who typically has the jurisdiction to adjudicate an application for adjustment of status?

The jurisdiction to adjudicate an application for adjustment of status is primarily held by USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services). This agency is charged with processing various immigration applications and petitions, including those for adjustment of status, which allows individuals already in the United States to become lawful permanent residents without leaving the country.

USCIS officers are trained to assess eligibility based on the criteria set forth in the Immigration and Nationality Act, ensuring each application complies with immigration laws and policies. This process includes reviewing the applicant's background, immigration history, and any potential ineligibilities.

In contrast, the other entities mentioned do not generally handle adjustment of status applications. The Department of Labor is concerned with employment-related immigration matters but does not adjudicate applications for adjustment of status. An immigration judge deals with removal proceedings and related matters, while the Department of Justice oversees the overall legal framework but does not directly adjudicate individual adjustment applications. Thus, USCIS is the correct authority for this type of immigration benefit.