Dependant's pass disclosure

[HappyDays2021]

Hi,

My husband will hopefully be getting a new position in Singapore for a major corporation and we hope to relocate there sometime in the next 6 months. I had almost completely forgotten that I had a criminal record before looking at the Dependant Pass application form. In my state (California, USA) I have had my record cleared - meaning that my no contest plea/conviction has been turned into a dismissal of the charges. It was 2013 and I had a drinking problem. I was convicted of attempted drunk driving (I never actually got into my car) and there was a child with me at the time so I was also convicted of attempted child endangerment. Both are misdemeanors. I had to complete 6 months of alcohol monitoring, community service and 4 years of probation. I completed my sentence, changed my life completely. I am just curious if now since technically in my state & country I can say I have no convictions - whether that applies to my application for a Dependant's Pass in Singapore. I don't want to lie but I also don't know if technically I would have to say yes? I am confused and just would like some advice.

[singaporeflyer]

Hi,

My husband will hopefully be getting a new position in Singapore for a major corporation and we hope to relocate there sometime in the next 6 months. I had almost completely forgotten that I had a criminal record before looking at the Dependant Pass application form. In my state (California, USA) I have had my record cleared - meaning that my no contest plea/conviction has been turned into a dismissal of the charges. It was 2013 and I had a drinking problem. I was convicted of attempted drunk driving (I never actually got into my car) and there was a child with me at the time so I was also convicted of attempted child endangerment. Both are misdemeanors. I had to complete 6 months of alcohol monitoring, community service and 4 years of probation. I completed my sentence, changed my life completely. I am just curious if now since technically in my state & country I can say I have no convictions - whether that applies to my application for a Dependant's Pass in Singapore. I don't want to lie but I also don't know if technically I would have to say yes? I am confused and just would like some advice.

Better to be honest and say YES. Inform your husband's employer and they should be able to handle this with MOM

[HappyDays2021]

That is basically what I was thinking. I know technically here it doesn’t count as a conviction anymore but I would prefer to be honest and hope that they grant me permission despite it rather than find out that I withheld the information. I will consult with an attorney and the employer for guidance. Thank you for your advice.

[PNGMK]

What is the exact wording in the DP application? That has a huge bearing on what you should say. Do not readily admit to something like this. Once it is in the system it will be impossible to back out. You need expert advice on this - this is way above the pay level of anyone here as it can obviously impact your husbands work prospects.

For example: "Do you have a criminal record?"; you can say no but "Have you ever been convicted in a court of law of a criminal offense?" is a much broader question. I personally would get a copy of your current state record sheet and attach it to the application regardless of what you state.

As your husband's employer if there is a legal counsel available in the Singapore office who can give a referral to someone who can guide you.

For what it's worth I don't think is will stop your DP pass being approved.

[HappyDays2021]

The wording on the DP application is as follows:
Has the applicant ever been convicted in a court of law in any country?

I will go to the courthouse on Monday and see what records I can get.

[PNGMK]

What do your records show?