Rather complex question???
#1
Just Joined
Thread Starter
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 12


Hello 
I have always been fascinated by Japan and seriously intend on paying the country a visit one day.
Here is the thing.
I was convicted of DUI (Drink Driving) a few years ago in Ireland.
(Yes it was stupid, and I am fully aware of that fact).
Never been in trouble before that, or again since.
Just the once off.
But here is where things get a bit more complicated.
I have dual nationalities.
Both Irish and British.
And I have a clean British record.
So if I travel to Japan on my British passport including a copy of my clean British record.
Will I have much chance of getting in?
I have read posts of people ticking Yes (for criminal convictions) on the arrival card and being sent home for being honest on relatively minor offences.
In my experience and not just in this instance, I have learned that law is just a game that everyone plays.
Would it be wiser that I just keep my mouth shut and tick No (for criminal convictions) on the arrival card?
You're views on this matter would be much appreciated.
Thank you

I have always been fascinated by Japan and seriously intend on paying the country a visit one day.
Here is the thing.
I was convicted of DUI (Drink Driving) a few years ago in Ireland.
(Yes it was stupid, and I am fully aware of that fact).
Never been in trouble before that, or again since.
Just the once off.
But here is where things get a bit more complicated.
I have dual nationalities.
Both Irish and British.
And I have a clean British record.
So if I travel to Japan on my British passport including a copy of my clean British record.
Will I have much chance of getting in?
I have read posts of people ticking Yes (for criminal convictions) on the arrival card and being sent home for being honest on relatively minor offences.
In my experience and not just in this instance, I have learned that law is just a game that everyone plays.
Would it be wiser that I just keep my mouth shut and tick No (for criminal convictions) on the arrival card?
You're views on this matter would be much appreciated.
Thank you

#2
Just Joined
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 9









Do not tick "Yes" for convictions. You will be sent home with a 95% certainty. If you don't want to lie then just don't tick either box. If they ask you at the counter then just say no. When you apply for a visa then you will need to be honest as they can run a criminal record check in co-operation with the British police.

#3
Just Joined
Thread Starter
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 12


My God, I had forgotten all about this post.
It's been at least six months! lol
Anyway, thanks for your reply.
I ended up changing holiday destination in the end.
Didn't want to risk flying to Japan to be sent home on the next available flight!
Out of curiosity though.
If you get a Japanese visa granted by the Japanese embassy in London say for instance.
Does this guarantee you entry into Japan or is it down to the individual immigration officer on the day ?
It's been at least six months! lol
Anyway, thanks for your reply.
I ended up changing holiday destination in the end.
Didn't want to risk flying to Japan to be sent home on the next available flight!
Out of curiosity though.
If you get a Japanese visa granted by the Japanese embassy in London say for instance.
Does this guarantee you entry into Japan or is it down to the individual immigration officer on the day ?

#4
Just Joined
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 9









It's still down to the immigration officer for the final word. It will make your entry smoother though. They won't be so bothered about proof of funds or an address you will be staying at. What they'll look out for in this situation is things like : is the guy drunk, does he present well, is he well mannered, is he humble... you know ? generally how you come across as a person.
Turn up anywhere drunk and shouting and you'll likely be turned around though.
Turn up anywhere drunk and shouting and you'll likely be turned around though.

#5
BE Forum Addict






Joined: May 2007
Location: Perth
Posts: 1,179












According to the tv program Border Security aired here weekly immigration can review your visa and accept or reject based on their findings.

#6
Just Joined
Thread Starter
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 12


Hello
Thanks everyone for your replies. It is very much appreciated.
Thanks everyone for your replies. It is very much appreciated.

#7
Just Joined
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 5


Britain has a visa waver with Japan. Tourists turn up at immigration and are processed there and then.
