How Long Does It Take to Get a Green Card in Florida?

There are four types of green cards that allow non-U.S. citizens to acquire permanent resident status. They include family-based green cards, employment-based green cards, returning resident immigrant visas, and marriage-based green cards.

Are you currently applying for a green card in Florida? Are you wondering how long it takes to get a green card? Are you guaranteed a green card after the wait? If you have questions about the Florida Green Card application process, then you are at the right place. In this blog post, we explore the different types of Green Cards and how long the process takes for each.

Family-Based Green Card

The family-based green card is among the most popular ways to achieve a lawful permanent resident status in the U.S. However, despite its popularity, the process may not be easy or fast as people may think.

To acquire this type of green card, you need to be an immediate family member of a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. Family-based green cards are split into different ‘preference immigrant’ categories. For instance, the first preference visa is only applicable to unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens.

Depending on where you apply for your family-based green card, it can take up to 33 months. Some U.S. Embassies abroad and USCIS offices are busier than others, and it may take longer to get help depending on your specific circumstances. Family-based green cards are in high demand, and in some cases it can take up to 10 years to obtain one.

Marriage-Based Green Card

If you are a spouse of a U.S. citizen, you are eligible to get a marriage-based green card. The average duration for processing these visas is 10-13 months. There is no limit to the number of marriage-based green cards to be applied per year, and the only thing that may stand your way is your eligibility and mode of application. The marriage-based green card is conditional, however, and expires after two years.

Employment-Based Green Card

Based on professional skills and experience, you can apply for an employment-based green card. This category of green card is in high demand, and it may take a while to receive. It may take years to apply for and receive an employment-based green card. If you are concerned about the timeline, you can work with a Florida immigration attorney to guide you through the process and help you achieve your green card status as soon as possible.

Returning Resident Immigration Visa

If you had an LPR (lawful permanent resident) status but lost your status as a result of spending a lot of time outside the U.S.,  you are eligible to apply for a returning resident visa. To obtain the visa, you must explain why you could not return to the country. The waiting period for this type of visa can vary widely, depending on how fast and efficient the processing is.

Let’s Help You Obtain Your Green Card

At Bennett Law Center, we understand that green card processing duration can prevent you from joining family, taking an exciting new job, or returning home. Our immigration law firm can help you avoid the pitfalls that lead to delay or denial. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a Florida immigration attorney.