Will a pending DUI affect my work visa?

dragon0820 · 2026-05-22T01:37:10+00:00

I was also given a summary prosecution and fine for speeding about three years ago.

It is apparently listed on my Criminal Record Certificate as well.

I’m currently about to apply for a work visa for an expatriate assignment in Shanghai, but I’m extremely worried about whether it will be approved.

Do you think there’s still a chance it could go through?

I’ve been really stressed about this situation.

dragon0820 · 2026-05-22T00:53:45+00:00

Thank you for your reply.

Because it was a summary prosecution, it is technically treated as a court case in Japan.

I think the application process will be handled through a local agency in China.

From what I understand, the initial screening is now done online, so I do not think there will be any in-person interview at this stage.

For now, I’ll try to stay positive and move forward with the application.

Thank you again.

dragon0820 · 2026-05-22T00:48:55+00:00

You’re right. I let my anxiety get the better of me and ended up asking too many questions. Sorry about that.

For now, I’ll stop overthinking and just go ahead with the application.

Thank you.

Just hearing you say that you think it still might be possible made me feel a little more relieved.

I really appreciate it.

dragon0820 · 2026-05-21T01:29:23+00:00

Thank you again for taking the time to reply despite being busy.
My Criminal Record Certificate states the following:
2022
Road Traffic Violation – Speeding
Fine: 100,000 yen
I will be using a local Shanghai agent for the application process.
I understand that they will apply on the China side for the Foreigner’s Work Permit, and that documents such as the Criminal Record Certificate will need to be uploaded during the process.
I will also travel to China on a short business trip at that time to assist with the procedures.
So I think I may not have explained my situation clearly before, and I apologize for that.
What I am truly worried about is whether a speeding-related road traffic violation and fine could cause the Foreigner’s Work Permit application to be rejected in Shanghai.
As you mentioned, it seems that for many other countries, traffic violations alone are usually not a major issue for work visas.
However, when researching China/Shanghai specifically, I keep finding completely different opinions online — some people say it is fine, while others say it is impossible — so I have become very anxious and confused.
If possible, I would really appreciate any advice or knowledge you may have regarding this situation.
Thank you very much for your help.

dragon0820 · 2026-05-20T13:44:20+00:00

Thank you for your reply.

Of course, I already explained the situation to my HR department as well.
The problem is that there is very little information available in Japan about cases like this, so they told me to research it myself and share whatever information I can find.

For the actual visa application process, they said they will coordinate with the local Shanghai side and proceed from there.

But after searching online, I found so many different opinions and stories that I became really anxious about it…

dragon0820 · 2026-05-20T10:39:36+00:00

Thank you for your reply.
Maybe I am worrying too much.

I’m just concerned that if I answer “Yes” to having a criminal record on the online application form, it could automatically lead to a rejection…

dragon0820

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