mtfester@netMAPSONscape.net wrote:
> Declan Murphy <declan_murphy@hotmail.com> wrote:
> 
>>So what is a criminal record in whichever country you come from?
> 
>>Does it include only prison punishments and the like (suspended
> 
> ONLY? No.
> 
>>sentences, community service etc)? or does it also include fines? Are
>>your parking tickets (if any) part or not part of a criminal record?
> 
> Usually not.

So in your part of the world, what is considered a criminal record then?

>>Does some kid arrested once by police for possession of a small amount
>>of marijuana for personal use and fined or cautioned have a criminal record?
> 
> In some areas, it's a misdemeanor, and wouldn't show up on your record.
> In the US, juvenile records are closed after you turn 18 or 21 anyway.
> 
> Actually, it sounds like exactly the same as when I applied for
> my visa(s).
> Mike

Last time I completed an application for a certificate of eligibility 
for myself was 94, I don't remember if a declaration was required. For 
permanent residency and some other visa categories it is different of 
course.

The certificates I received today takes my tally for successful 
applications to just over the 700 mark. These ones were the first to 
require the single Yes / No. I figure Japan will probably follow the 
other OECD countries and require a lengthy declaration in due course, 
and hopefully not go any further than that. I have no problem designing 
forms for a declaration, but I'd hate to have to translate dozens of 
different kinds of legal statements from 25-30 countries every 6 months.

-- 
"They took you up to midnight Mass and left you in the lurch
So you dropped a button in the plate and spewed up in the church."

  - The Sickbed of Cuchulainn