I-140 Derivative Green Card. A I-140 derivative green card applicant is a person who seeks immigration benefits through a principal applicant. This type of applicant cannot petition for permanent residence or adjustment of status directly. A derivative may be a spouse, child under 21, parent or sibling of a U.S. citizen, or permanent resident. This ability to obtain immigrant visas for one’s derivatives does not extend beyond spouses and children. The incoming immigrant cannot, for example, bring in parents, brothers and sisters, or grandchildren. A principal applicant on Form I-485 is the primary or main intending immigrant named on an immigrant petition. If you are the only applicant in your family that is adjusting status, you are a principal. Most people are principal applicants.