Countywide

The two U.S. immigration legalization offices in San Diego County are now open until 6:30 p.m. to accommodate aliens who cannot leave their jobs during the day to apply for amnesty.

Robert Coffman, head of the legalization office in Serra Mesa, and Hoot Chandler, head of the Escondido office, said the offices began the new hours on Monday. Previously, the offices closed at 4:30 p.m.

Both men said the two offices saw a rush of people coming in until the 6:30 p.m. closing time Monday. Coffman said that, if the influx of late arrivals continues, he may consider keeping the Serra Mesa office open until 8:30 p.m. Both offices open at 8 a.m. and are closed on weekends.

Chandler said the extended office hours are needed to encourage more aliens to apply for amnesty.

Besides the legalization offices in Serra Mesa and Escondido, there are several independent and privately run offices throughout the county.