Declan Murphy <declan_murphy@hotmail.com> wrote:
> mtfester@netMAPSONscape.net wrote:
>> Declan Murphy <declan_murphy@hotmail.com> wrote:

>>>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?

It varies. Certainly, and felony conviction. The form I filled out
and submitted to the police asked only for convictions.

>> 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).

> 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.

I had  to submit a copy of my "police record". I wasn't sure what it
was, either.

> 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.


I'm guessing that, since it's Japan, they just want to see a good-faith
effort on your part.

Mike