DALLAS, TEXAS — The Chander Law Firm recommends that individuals under the jurisdiction of the Dallas USCIS Field Office seeking to obtain permanent resident status in the immediate relative category consider filing their applications immediately as the Dallas Field Office is meeting record processing timelines. Jointly filed immediate relative petitions and adjustment of status applications filed by The Chander Law Firm since June 2009 have been processed and approved by the Dallas Field Office within 120 days of filing. This processing timeline resembles the timelines reached by the Dallas Field Office when the District Office Rapid Adjudication (DORA) program was operating. The DORA program attempted to adjudicate immediate relative adjustment applications within 90 days of filing. The rapid processing timelines were confirmed by a USCIS adjudications officer at the Dallas Field Office. During an informal conversation, the officer credited the rapid adjudication of immediate relative petitions to the elimination of backlog applications. The office also commented that the reduction in backlog is allowing the Notice to Appear (NTA) to be issued simultaneously with denials. Vishal Chander, Managing Attorney of The Chander Law Firm, stated, “The rapid processing timelines at the Dallas District Office should encourage individuals residing in the jurisdiction of the Dallas Field Office to gather application materials and file applications adjudicated locally as quickly as possible. This includes immediate relative applications and applications for naturalization. The Chander Law Firm is eager to assist potential clients with this process.” Spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21 of United States citizens are eligible to apply for lawful permanent resident status or the “green card” under the immediate relative category. The immediate relative category is not subject to annual numerical quotas. Adjustment of status is the process of changing an aliens status from that of a nonimmigrant to an immigrant or green card holder. Aliens residing lawfully in nonimmigrant status may be eligible for adjustment of status. A Notice to Appear or NTA is the charging document placing individuals in removal or deportation proceedings before the United States Immigration Court. ###
