Mentioning Multiple Minor Speeding Violations in the Statement of Reasons#
When applying for a change of status of residence in Japan, particularly for Permanent Residence (Eiju-ken) or Naturalization (Kika), the applicant’s “conduct” involves a strict review process. A common source of anxiety for many applicants is their history of traffic violations.
While major criminal offenses clearly pose a significant hurdle, the accumulation of minor traffic violations—such as speeding tickets where the fine has already been paid—can also impact the outcome of an application. This article provides an objective explanation of how to address multiple minor speeding violations within the “Statement of Reasons” (Ryuyusho) submitted to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
The Weight of Traffic Violations in Immigration Reviews#
To understand how to write the statement, one must first understand how traffic violations are viewed by the Japanese immigration authorities.
For Permanent Residence applications, there is a legal requirement known as the “Good Conduct Requirement” (Soko Zenryo Yoken). This stipulates that the applicant must abide by Japanese laws and live a life that does not attract social criticism.
In the Japanese traffic system, minor violations (often processed via a “Blue Ticket”) result in the payment of an administrative fine called Hansokukin. While paying this fine means the applicant is not prosecuted in a criminal court and does not gain a criminal record (Zenka), it is still officially recorded as a violation of the Road Traffic Act.
Single vs. Multiple Violations#
Generally, a single minor violation (e.g., a parking ticket or slight speeding) within the last few years is unlikely to be the sole reason for a denial, provided the fine was paid promptly. However, the situation changes significantly when there are multiple violations.
Accumulating several violations, even minor ones, suggests to the immigration inspector that the applicant lacks a “law-abiding spirit” or habitually disregards Japanese rules. For example, having five violations in the past two years is viewed much more severely than one violation in five years. This pattern can be interpreted as a failure to meet the Good Conduct Requirement.
Strategy for the Statement of Reasons#
When drafting the Statement of Reasons, transparency is the most critical strategy. Hiding violations is strongly discouraged. The Immigration Services Agency has the authority to inquire with the National Police Agency to verify an applicant’s driving history. If an applicant fails to declare violations that the authorities subsequently discover, this constitutes a “False Declaration”, which is a far more serious issue than the traffic violations themselves and almost guarantees a denial.
Therefore, the Statement of Reasons should address the violations by incorporating the following three elements:
1. Accurate Disclosure of Facts#
The statement must clearly list when, where, and what kind of violations occurred. Relying on memory can be risky, as discrepancies between the declared dates and official records can look suspicious.
It is highly recommended to obtain a “Driving Record Certificate” (Un-ten Kiroku Shomeisho) from the Japan Safe Driving Center covering the past five years. This document serves as the official reference. By using the exact dates and details from this certificate in the application, the applicant demonstrates administrative competence and honesty.
2. Expression of Sincere Remorse#
When explaining the reasons for the violations, excuses must be avoided. Phrases like “I was late for a meeting” or “The road was empty” may sound like justifications for breaking the law.
Instead, the focus should be on internal reflection. Suitable expressions might include:
- “I deeply regret my lack of awareness regarding traffic safety.”
- “I have reflected seriously on my complacency towards Japanese traffic laws.”
The goal is to show the examiner that the applicant accepts full responsibility and understands the gravity of repeated non-compliance, however minor the individual offenses might seem.
3. Concrete Measures for Prevention#
Merely stating “I will be careful from now on” is often insufficient for applicants with multiple violations. To be persuasive, the statement needs to outline concrete, actionable steps taken to prevent recurrence.
Examples of concrete measures include:
- Time Management: “I now ensure I leave 30 minutes earlier for all appointments to eliminate the urge to speed due to haste.”
- Driving Habits: “I have ceased driving for non-essential purposes and switched to public transportation for daily commuting to reduce the risk of violations.”
- Technology: “I utilize a vehicle equipped with a speed limiter or cruise control to physically prevent speeding.”
- Education: “I have voluntarily attended a driver safety refresher course.”
Presenting these specific behavioral changes proves that the applicant is not just apologizing, but is actively managing their conduct to ensure compliance with Japanese laws in the future.
Structure and Tone of the Document#
In terms of document structure, it is advisable to create a specific section within the Statement of Reasons titled, for example, “Regarding Past Traffic Violations and Reflection.”
The tone must remain polite, objective, and apologetic (Desu/Masu form). It should strike a balance between humility and logical explanation. The narrative should flow from acknowledging the facts (based on the Driving Record Certificate), expressing remorse, and concluding with the preventive measures currently in place.
Conclusion#
While minor speeding tickets do not constitute a criminal record, a history of repeated violations is a serious matter in the eyes of the Immigration Bureau, as it pertains directly to the Good Conduct Requirement for Permanent Residence and Naturalization.
The most effective approach is total transparency. By obtaining official driving records, accurately disclosing all infractions, and submitting a Statement of Reasons that articulates sincere remorse and concrete preventive actions, applicants can demonstrate their maturity and commitment to living as law-abiding residents in Japan. This honest approach is the best way to mitigate the negative impact of past violations.