Immigration Question

[joesantucci1981]

Ok. I'll be the first to admit I did something pretty stupid. About 6 years ago I overstayed on a tourist visa. At the moment My wife's grandfather is basically on his death bed and we want to go over there to pay our last respects. Does anyone know how hard it will be for me to get another tourist visa?

 

[Glenski]

If you were banned/blacklisted for more than 6 years, impossible.

What does it say on your passport? Blacklisting can be for 1 or 5 years. There was talk of extending it to 10 but I don't think that has happened yet.

 

[joesantucci1981]

thanks for responding. I was told by the japanese consolate it was for 5 years. This is the first time I am going to try to go back. Does being law enforcement help? Some one told me it might.

 

[Glenski]

You've paid your dues. Five years is up. There should be no reason they would detain or question you as you enter the country.

Doesn't matter what your job is, either, unless you are a diplomat.

 

[joesantucci1981]

thanks again for responding. Do you know if I would have to apply for a tourist viza at the consolate first or can I just go like I did before. Thanks again for your help.

 

[undrentide]

If you are a US passport holder and intend to stay less than 90 days, you do not need to apply for visa.
http://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/02.html