For many families in Duval County and across Jacksonville, obtaining a green card represents stability, opportunity, and the chance to build a secure future in the United States. Yet, the process can feel complicated and filled with uncertainty. At Rebecca Black Law, P.A., our Jacksonville-based immigration team helps families navigate every step with clarity and confidence. Below, we answer some of the top questions local families ask about green cards — from eligibility to processing times — so you can better understand your path to permanent residency.
What Is a Green Card and Why Is It Important?
A green card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, grants you lawful permanent resident status in the U.S. This means you can live and work anywhere in the country, travel more freely, and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship. For Jacksonville families, this is often the key step toward reuniting loved ones and establishing long-term roots in the community.
Who Can Apply for a Family-Based Green Card?
Family-based green cards are among the most common routes to permanent residency. U.S. citizens can petition for their spouses, children, parents, and siblings, while lawful permanent residents may sponsor their spouses and unmarried children. At Rebecca Black Law, P.A., we regularly assist local families with spousal visas, fiancé(e) visas, and parent-child petitions — ensuring each case meets all the eligibility and documentation requirements.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Green Card?
Processing times vary depending on several factors, including the applicant’s relationship to the sponsor, country of origin, and whether the process occurs inside the U.S. (Adjustment of Status) or abroad (Consular Processing). Some immediate relative petitions move relatively quickly, while others — especially sibling or adult child categories — can take years due to visa limits. Our firm helps families in Duval County understand realistic timelines and keeps them informed at every stage of their case.
Can I Stay in the U.S. While My Green Card Application Is Pending?
In many situations, applicants already in the U.S. can remain legally while their Adjustment of Status case is pending. You may even qualify for work authorization and travel permission during this time. However, each case is unique, and any misstep can delay or jeopardize your application. Our immigration attorney, Rebecca Black, Esq., guides clients through these nuances to help them maintain lawful status and avoid common pitfalls.
What Happens If My Application Is Denied?
A denial doesn’t always mean the end of your immigration journey. Depending on the reason, you might be able to appeal, reapply, or request a waiver. Our firm provides detailed case evaluations to determine the best strategy — whether addressing missing evidence, overcoming inadmissibility issues, or preparing for a follow-up interview. We believe every family deserves fair consideration, and we fight to protect your right to stay together.
Can I Apply for Citizenship After Getting a Green Card?
Yes. Once you’ve held permanent residency for the required period — typically five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen — you may be eligible to apply for naturalization. At Rebecca Black Law, P.A., we help clients in Jacksonville take that next meaningful step, from preparing the citizenship application to getting ready for the interview and civics test.
Why Work with a Jacksonville Immigration Attorney?
While it’s possible to apply for a green card on your own, having an experienced immigration attorney makes a major difference. At Rebecca Black Law, P.A., we don’t just file forms — we develop a legal strategy that protects your family’s future. Our firm has over 15 years of specialized immigration experience and is known for its personalized service, compassionate advocacy, and deep understanding of U.S. immigration law. Whether your case is straightforward or complex, you’ll have a dedicated team ensuring no detail is overlooked.
Start Your Green Card Journey with Confidence
If you live in Jacksonville, Duval County, or the surrounding area and want to secure a green card for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to help. At Rebecca Black Law, P.A., our mission is simple: to reunite families, open opportunities, and make the immigration process as smooth as possible.
Schedule a consultation today to discuss your green card options with an experienced Jacksonville immigration attorney who truly cares about your family’s future.
