Different culture have different views on what it means to be late. Begin on time is very important for people in countries like germany switzerland, the united states, and japan. In these and other countries, punctuality is seen as form of respect, and being late is regarded as disrespectful and bad mannersthough arriving five minutes late for a meeting is usually acceptable. Youshould also not get to an appointment too early because you might arrive before the others are prepared to meed you; five minutes early is usually acceptable. If you are in doubt about what is correct - then be on time!