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Home » FAQs » Who Are the Principal Applicant and Derivative Applicant?

Who Are the Principal Applicant and Derivative Applicant?

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Main Differences Between Principal Applicant and Derivative Applicant

General Overview of the Immigration Processes

Importance of Understanding Applicant Roles

An Experienced Immigration Lawyer Can Explain the Applicant’s Roles in a Free Case Evaluation

Your lawyer can explain who the principal applicant and derivative applicants are in an immigration case. Understanding these roles is key to managing your application effectively in the immigration process. The principal applicant is the main individual applying for an immigration benefit, such as a green card or visa. This person is responsible for meeting the eligibility requirements and providing necessary documents.

Derivative applicants, on the other hand, are family members—like spouses and children—who benefit from the principal applicant’s status. They are included in the principal applicant’s immigration petition and must also meet certain criteria. A Phoenix immigration lawyer can help you understand these roles and ensure that all parts of the immigration process are handled correctly and efficiently.

Main Differences Between Principal Applicant and Derivative Applicant

Understanding the distinctions between a principal applicant and a derivative applicant is important in the immigration process. This will ensure that all necessary steps are properly handled. Remember, a Phoenix naturalization and citizenship lawyer can help you understand these roles and prepare for your immigration process.

Here’s a brief overview of their main differences:

Principal Applicant

This individual is the main person applying for an immigration benefit, such as a visa or green card. They are responsible for meeting the eligibility criteria and filing the primary application or petition. For instance, an employment-based visa applicant or a family-based sponsor would be considered the principal applicant.

Derivative Applicant

Derivative applicants are individuals who benefit from the principal applicant’s approval. That typically includes spouses and minor children who are included in the principal applicant’s application. They derive their immigration status from the principal applicant and must meet certain conditions to be eligible.

Application Forms

Principal Applicant. They complete and submit the main application forms, such as Form I-485 for adjustment of status or Form I-130 for family-sponsored immigration. That includes providing detailed information about their background, eligibility, and supporting evidence.
Derivative Applicant. Derivative applicants are included in the principal applicant’s petition but usually do not need to submit separate applications. They may need to provide additional documents to verify their relationship with the principal applicant.

Required Documentation

Principal Applicant. Must provide comprehensive documentation to support their application, including proof of identity, legal status, and eligibility. Documents might include a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or employment verification.
Derivative Applicant. Typically, they need to provide documents that prove their relationship to the principal applicant, such as marriage or birth certificates. Their documentation supports their inclusion in the principal applicant’s petition.

Eligibility Criteria

Principal Applicant. Must meet all specific eligibility requirements related to their visa category. That might involve demonstrating lawful status, meeting residency requirements, or proving an employment offer or family relationship.
Derivative Applicant. Must meet the eligibility requirements associated with their derivative status. That generally means proving their relationship with the principal applicant and meeting any additional requirements set by immigration laws.

Understanding these differences helps ensure that both the principal and derivative applicants properly fulfill their roles and responsibilities in the immigration process. For those who need assistance with their applications, consulting an experienced immigration lawyer can provide valuable guidance and support.

For a free case review with an Immigration lawyer, call

(623) 742-5400

General Overview of the Immigration Processes

The U.S. immigration process involves several steps, each designed to ensure that applicants meet the necessary criteria for visas, green cards, or any other process that leads to permanent residence. Understanding these processes can help make the journey smoother for both principal applicants and derivative beneficiaries.

Immigrant Petition: The process typically begins with filing an immigrant petition, which can be for various visa categories, including family-based or employment-based visas.
Form I-485 and Adjustment of Status: For those already in the U.S., the next step is often filing Form I-485 to apply for adjustment of status. This form is used to transition from a non-immigrant status to permanent residence.
Visa Application and Interview: For individuals applying from abroad, the process includes a visa application and an interview at a U.S. consulate. The visa interview assesses the applicant’s eligibility and includes reviewing documents and answering questions related to the application.
Green Card Issuance: Upon approval of the application or visa, the principal applicant and any derivative beneficiaries may receive their green cards, which grant permanent residence status.
Getting a response to your application: USCIS or other immigration authorities will review your case. If your application is denied, you may have other immigration options. An experienced immigration lawyer can help you develop a new strategy.

Preparing the necessary documents can help ensure a successful immigration journey. If you have questions or need assistance, consulting with an experienced immigration attorney can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process.

Importance of Understanding Applicant Roles

Understanding the roles of principal and derivative applicants is vital in the immigration process. This knowledge ensures that both the principal applicant and their derivative beneficiaries—such as spouses and children—receive the appropriate immigration benefits and that all aspects of the application are handled properly.

Proper Documentation

Knowing who is classified as the principal applicant and who are derivative applicants helps in gathering and submitting the correct documents. For example, the principal applicant must provide evidence of eligibility, such as employment verification or proof of relationship. At the same time, derivative beneficiaries need to submit supporting documents like marriage or birth certificates.

Accurate Application

Each role has specific requirements and forms to complete. For instance, principal applicants usually file an immigrant petition, such as Form I-130 or Form I-485, while derivative applicants are included in this petition but may need to provide additional documentation. Understanding these roles helps avoid errors in filling out forms and submitting the right paperwork.

Eligibility and Benefits

The correct classification impacts eligibility for immigration benefits. For example, derivative applicants are typically included in the principal applicant’s immigration petition and must meet eligibility requirements to receive derivative visas or green cards. Misunderstanding these roles can lead to delays or complications in obtaining permanent residence or other benefits.

Streamlining the Process

Clear knowledge of applicant roles aids in managing the immigration process more efficiently. It helps in understanding what each applicant must do, what documents are needed, and how to address any issues that arise. This understanding can lead to a smoother process and faster resolution of any concerns.

Legal and Professional Guidance

Consulting with an experienced immigration lawyer can clarify the roles and responsibilities of principal and derivative applicants. An attorney can also offer detailed guidance on completing forms, preparing documentation, and ensuring compliance with immigration laws.

Understanding these roles not only helps in preparing accurate applications but also ensures that all applicants are properly represented and that their rights and benefits are fully addressed. If you have questions or need assistance, seeking professional legal advice can make a significant difference in navigating the immigration process.

Our immigration lawyers

(623) 742-5400

An Experienced Immigration Lawyer Can Explain the Applicant’s Roles in a Free Case Evaluation

Understanding the roles of principal and derivative applicants in the immigration process can be challenging. An experienced immigration lawyer can offer a detailed explanation of the differences between principal and derivative applicants. We can help you understand how these roles impact the immigration process.

Our team can also guide you through the specific documents required for both principal and derivative applicants. That includes helping you gather and prepare essential evidence, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and proof of relationship, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is in order. Contact New Frontier today to find answers to all your immigration questions.