Risks of Submitting ChatGPT-Generated Statements of Reason to Japanese Immigration#

With the rapid advancement of generative AI technologies, utilizing tools like ChatGPT for drafting documents has become a part of daily life. Consequently, many applicants consider using these tools to create the “Statement of Reasons” (Riyusho) required for visa applications to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA). While AI offers convenience, submitting AI-generated text “as-is”—without thorough verification and personalization—carries significant risks that can directly lead to the denial of an application. This article provides an objective explanation of the potential pitfalls and points of caution from the perspective of the Japanese immigration system.

Understanding the Role of the “Statement of Reasons”#

To understand why using raw AI output is risky, one must first grasp the significance of the Statement of Reasons in the context of Japanese immigration procedures. This document is not merely an essay or a formality; it serves as a critical piece of evidence aimed at satisfying the “burden of proof.”

Under the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, the applicant bears the responsibility of proving that they meet the specific requirements for the desired status of residence. Immigration inspectors use this document to evaluate the applicant’s background, their intended activities in Japan, the necessity of their presence, and the overall credibility of the application. Therefore, the document must contain strictly factual information and explain the applicant’s unique circumstances in detail.

The Risk of “Hallucinations” and False Declarations#

One of the most dangerous characteristics of generative AI is its tendency to produce “hallucinations”—confident but completely fabricated information. If an applicant asks ChatGPT to write a reason for their application based on a few keywords, the AI might invent job duties, educational backgrounds, or specific dates that sound plausible but are factually incorrect.

In the eyes of the ISA, accuracy is paramount. If an applicant submits a document containing fabricated details—even if the error was unintentional and caused by AI—it can be treated as a “false declaration” (Kyogi-shinkoku). The consequences of submitting false information are severe. Not only is the current application likely to be denied, but a record of the false submission will remain in the immigration database. This can negatively impact all future visa applications and, in serious cases, lead to a ban on entering Japan.

Inconsistency with Other Official Documents#

Immigration applications are judged based on the consistency of the entire file. The Statement of Reasons does not exist in a vacuum; it is cross-referenced with the Curriculum Vitae (CV), application forms, employment contracts, diplomas, and transcripts.

AI tools generally do not have access to the full suite of supporting documents unless extensive context is provided. Consequently, an AI-generated statement might contradict the dates on a resume or describe job duties that differ from those listed in the official employment contract. For example, the contract might list “Translation and Interpretation,” while the AI-generated text might eloquently describe “Marketing and Sales Strategy” based on a generic prompt.

Such discrepancies are red flags for immigration inspectors. They undermine the credibility of the entire application, leading to suspicions that the employment is not genuine or that the applicant does not truly understand their intended activities in Japan. This often results in requests for additional documentation or immediate denial.

The ISA looks for the “necessity” and “suitability” of the specific applicant. A strong Statement of Reasons explains why this specific company needs this specific person at this specific time.

AI models are trained on vast amounts of general data, which often results in content that is generic, clichéd, or overly broad. An AI-generated letter might focus heavily on general sentiments, such as “I love Japanese culture” or “Japan is a safe and beautiful country.” While these sentiments are positive, they do not legally prove eligibility for a work visa or long-term residence.

If the statement lacks concrete details—such as specific projects the applicant will handle, how their university major relates to the job, or the specific history of their relationship with a Japanese spouse—the inspector may conclude that the applicant has failed to provide sufficient proof of eligibility. A generic letter suggests a generic application, which is often insufficient for the rigorous standards of Japanese immigration.

The Discrepancy in Language Proficiency#

For applicants applying for student visas or visas that do not strictly require native-level Japanese (such as certain engineering roles), submitting a Statement of Reasons written in flawless, native-level Japanese generated by AI can create a paradox.

If an applicant’s JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) certificate shows N4 level (basic), but their Statement of Reasons reads like a professional dissertation written by a native speaker, the inspector will immediately recognize that the applicant did not write it. While receiving assistance is allowed, if the gap is too wide, it raises questions about whether the applicant even understands the contents of their own application.

Furthermore, if the applicant is interviewed (either in person or via phone) and cannot communicate at a level commensurate with the submitted documents, the credibility of the application collapses. The suspicion that the applicant is merely a “puppet” for a broker or is misrepresenting their skills becomes a valid ground for denial.

Ethical and Practical Use of AI in Applications#

This is not to say that AI cannot be used at all. ChatGPT and similar tools can be valuable for:

Brainstorming the structure of the document.
Checking for grammatical errors in drafts written by the applicant.
Translating initial thoughts to help form a draft (which must then be verified).

However, the “Human in the Loop” approach is non-negotiable. The applicant must:

Verify every fact: Ensure all dates, names, and descriptions match reality and other documents perfectly.
Personalize the content: Replace generic AI phrases with specific, personal anecdotes and detailed explanations of duties or relationships.
Ensure understanding: The applicant must be able to explain everything written in the document in their own words if asked.

Conclusion#

A Statement of Reasons submitted to the Immigration Services Agency is a legal document with significant consequences for an individual’s life in Japan. Submitting text generated by ChatGPT without careful review, verification, and personalization invites risks of inconsistency, lack of specific proof, and even accusations of false declaration.

To ensure a fair and successful review, applicants should use AI only as a supplementary aid. The final document must be a truthful, consistent, and personalized reflection of the applicant’s situation, verified by human eyes to ensure it meets the strict standards of Japanese immigration procedures. The convenience of AI should never outweigh the necessity of accuracy and honesty in legal proceedings.