To qualify for voluntary departure, what character requirement must an alien meet?

To qualify for voluntary departure, an alien must establish good moral character for at least five years. This requirement is critical because it reflects the individual's conduct and behavior over a substantial period, ensuring that they have demonstrated adherence to the laws and societal standards expected in the community.

Good moral character is often assessed based on various factors, including the absence of serious criminal offenses, but it is not merely about having no criminal history. Minor infractions or incidents that do not reflect significantly on a person's character may not disqualify someone from demonstrating good moral character. The five-year timeframe allows immigration authorities to evaluate an individual's behavior and contributions to society adequately.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the well-defined criteria for voluntary departure. For instance, not receiving any tickets or having no criminal history could be misleading benchmarks, as minor legal infractions may not directly equate to a lack of good moral character. Being employed in a reputable job is not a mandated requirement and does not specifically indicate an individual's moral standing. Therefore, establishing good moral character over a defined period is the key condition that applies for voluntary departure eligibility.