Japan Travel with Convictions

Pretty much two people that are coming on our trip have had gotten in trouble about 10 years ago resulting in community service and a fine. The other person has a few convictions 10 years and older and did no more than a month in jail. I do realize that lying on an embark card is wrong and can be highly punishable if found. I also know that if the people coming on our trip and tick yes for their convictions and offer up the information they pretty much will be sent back. We have been planning this trip since we were 15 years old and knew nothing about declaring our convictions. My question is with these being minor offenses over 10 years ago how would they have access to knowing right off the bat or their passports be red flagged so to speak? If they check no how in the world would Japan immigration know if they had convictions or not. Please post if you have yourself have checked no and been let in recently or know someone who has. Or more enlightenment on this topic. My friends and I are freaking out about this. We are all good people and hold high college degrees. We would be devastated to be turned away. Thank You!

I don't think anyone on here will suggest or promote breaking the law.

If a person has done jail time, most likely they wont be allowed entry.

If you search the term jail on this website, you will find many topic the same theme.

I would suggest talking to the Japanese embassy or immigration specialist before departing for Japan.

You really need to speak to the relevant authorities before you travel. I doubt if your friends will be allowed in and it would be terrible to be turned away.

If one has conviction history, consulate would advice you not to use Visa exemption to enter a country. You'll be told to apply for tourist Visa before you come to Japan. Of course, nothing is guranteed. There is always a chance of being denied issuing Visa. this can may have impact on future visa exemption entry. Form will ask whether you have been denied for any Visa you applied. And nobody know for sure how much info appear on immigration computers at the airport.

My mom used to work at Japan embassy doing Visa processing. She once said "in immigration, there're costs for being honest and dishonest." Your friends have to decide which path they are going to take.