I was partially ignorant of the law regarding my stay in Spain/Europe. I traveled with ONLY A PASSPORT - I didn't have a student or travel visa. I am an American citizen.
Here was my trip: -6 weeks in Spain -6 weeks in other EU countries -5 weeks more in Spain -now I am home in USA
In summary, I overstayed 39 days in Europe. At passport control in the Madrid airport, the officer notified me that I was in Europe illegally and that he would make a note of it on the computer. He said it would be difficult or impossible to return to Europe in the future, but that I could try to apply for a visa after 3 months. He didn't speak English, and my Spanish is mediocre; because of this, I am slightly uncertain of what he said.
I am now in the US with no problems but I have intentions of returning to Spain in 6 months. I read some articles online and learned the following:
-Successful re-entry depends on my country of origin, and being from the US is relatively lucky in this case -Success depends on the length of overstay (is 39 days much, little, or average?) -My chances of success may vary depending on the passport control officer, her mood, my reasons for going back, etc.
Can anyone add anything to this? Why is the Department of State website so difficult to navigate? Is there a website where I can view this digital "record" and learn about my prospects for return? How can I assure successful re-entry BEFORE paying all the money for a flight, taking time off work, etc.?