lost passport when travelling

What to do if you lose your passport while traveling internationally

When I studied abroad in college, my mother told me to take a photo of my passport to keep on hand in case I somehow lost my passport.

More than 10 years later, I still don't understand why I was given that instruction since photocopied passports don't serve as substitutes or makeshift passports, even in times of crisis.

Even so, the U.S. Department of State does recommend travelers copy all their relevant travel documents, including passports, which we will get to later.

Luckily for both me and my mom, I managed to keep my passport and all my belongings during my time abroad, but that wasn't the case for some of my classmates.

Situations like losing your passport while traveling internationally arise for many Americans. Sometimes, you just drop or misplace it; other times, you may find yourself the victim of theft.

As you can imagine, losing your passport while overseas creates quite a pickle, and I would argue it is one of the worst-case travel scenarios. Should you find yourself in this most unfortunate situation (which we hope you never do), here's what you need to know.

Where do I go to replace my passport?

This may seem like a no-brainer, but you cannot enter the U.S. by air, land or sea without a passport. Specifically, you need a passport book if flying or a passport card if entering via land or sea.

If you misplace your passport while abroad, you must replace it before returning to the U.S. This will require contacting the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for help.

"We encourage travelers to keep the contact details for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate on hand when abroad," a State Department spokesperson said via email. "The Department can assist you if you lose your passport or it is stolen."

Additionally, the agency encourages travelers to report the loss or theft of their U.S. passport to their current destination's local police.

"However, don't spend time obtaining a police report if doing so will cause you to miss a flight or delay your travel unreasonably," the State Department spokesperson said.

Though you may be stuck beyond your originally planned departure, the agency will do everything it can to assist with getting you a replacement passport in time.

"If you are scheduled to leave the foreign country shortly, please provide our consular staff with the details of your travel," the State Department spokesperson said. "We will make every effort to assist you quickly."

Know, though, that most embassies and consulates cannot issue passports on weekends or holidays.

"In most cases, except for serious emergencies, a replacement passport will not be issued until the next business day," the State Department spokesperson said.

What do I need to apply for a replacement passport?

As outlined online, travelers need at least six items to apply for a replacement passport, specifically:

• A passport photo (one photo is required, and the agency recommends getting it in advance to speed up the process)
• Identification (i.e., a driver's license, an expired passport, etc.)
• Evidence of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or a photocopy of your missing passport)
• Travel itinerary (like airline or train tickets)
• Police report (if applicable)
• Completed DS-11 application (may also be completed at the time of application)
• Completed DS-64 statement form describing the circumstances under which the passport was lost or stolen (may also be completed at the time of application)

How much does a replacement passport cost?

The same fees associated with obtaining a non-emergency passport apply to replacement passports. You can expect to pay $130 for a passport book and $30 for a limited-use passport card.

Though replacement passports are usually valid for 10 years for adults and five years for minors, there are limited-validity emergency passports that can be produced quicker for travelers so they can return home to the U.S. or continue with their travels.

"Once you return home, you can turn in your emergency passport and receive a full-validity passport," the State Department spokesperson said.

Is it helpful to have a photocopy of my passport?

My mother's comment all those years ago evidently stemmed from the State Department's recommendation to copy your relevant travel documents, including passports.

"Leave one copy with a trusted friend or relative and carry the other separately from your original documents," the State Department advises. "Also, take a photograph of your travel documents with your phone to have an electronic copy."

This copy can also serve as evidence of your U.S. citizenship, which is necessary to replace a missing passport.

If you want to help a friend or family member abroad who has lost their passport, you can call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 888-407-4747, which can connect the passport holder with the relevant embassy or consulate.

Bottom line

If you lose your passport abroad, all hope is not lost, but it's in your best interest to locate the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate ASAP, as all travelers must obtain a replacement passport in person.

These passports serve travelers in all the same ways as a normal passport, though they may not have the same length of validity.

For more frequently asked questions on obtaining a replacement passport, visit the State Department website .

Related reading:

• Where can I cruise without a passport?
• Guide to the 6-month passport rule — what is it?
• 4 best places to travel without a passport from the US
• Here are 15 places you need a visa to travel with an American passport
• Guide to getting your child's passport
• How the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program could help you on your next trip abroad

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How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Passport While Traveling

Carol McPherson

Carol is an editor with SmarterTravel Media, specializing in travel writing, multimedia production, and trying every local cuisine she can find. You can follow her journeys @cj_mcpherson on Instagram.

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You’re packing up your bag after the trip of a lifetime, exhausted and ready to return home when— uh oh. Your passport is missing.

While this sounds like a nightmare scenario, there are measures in place to help you get your documents replaced even when you’re far from home. 

How to Report a Lost or Stolen Passport Abroad

The first step is to report your lost or stolen passport to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Ask to speak with the Consular Section—they will be able to take your report and guide you through the process of obtaining a new passport.

Locating The Nearest Embassy or Consulate

The State Department hosts a directory of U.S. embassies and consulates . Take a screenshot of the address of the embassy closest to your accommodations before your trip in case WiFi is spotty. In a pinch, ask the front desk at your hotel for directions.

What Documents Do You Need to Replace Your Passport?

To replace a lost passport, applicants must fill out a form explaining the loss or theft of the passport (Form DS-64) along with the standard U.S. passport application form (Form DS-11).

Beyond that, the process is the same as a typical renewal application, requiring travelers to submit evidence of U.S. citizenship (and a photocopy), a photo I.D. (and a photocopy), an eligible passport photo, and the required fees.

When Will I Receive My Replacement Passport?

With expedited service (and the accompanying $60 fee), travelers can expect to receive their new passports in two to three weeks. Otherwise, expect a six to eight week wait.

Since most travelers aren’t prepared to add an extra month to their travel plans, embassies and consulates can issue emergency passports——”limited-validity” passports that can be issued as quickly as same-day. Once home, travelers can exchange their emergency passport for a full-validity replacement. 

How to Take Your Own Passport Photo

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Lost or Stolen Passport?

The standard $130 renewal fee applies when replacing a lost or stolen passport, regardless of whether it is full or limited validity. The fee may be waived in extenuating circumstances, outlined by the State Department as:

• “the applicant is the victim of a serious crime; or
• the applicant is a victim of a disaster;
• and the applicant does not have and cannot reasonably be expected to obtain money to pay the fees before continuing travel.”

In such cases, the fees will be due when the passport holder exchanges their emergency passport.

How to Make Replacing a Lost or Stolen Passport Easier

The best strategy is to prevent the loss in the first place. Always check the safe in your hotel room before checking out or airplane seatback pockets before disembarking to ensure no crucial items are left behind. Invest in an anti-theft bag, like this one from Pacsafe, for extra security.

If the worst-case scenario arises, it helps to prepare ahead of time. Bring along photocopies of your important documents, including your original passport, as well as an extra passport-approved photo. Program the number of your nearest consulate or embassy into your phone and keep the address handy by dropping a pin in your Maps app before departure.

Are there fees for losing your passport?

No, there are no additional fees for a lost passport beyond the typical cost of renewing a passport.

I found my lost passport after reporting it lost or stolen. Can I still use it?

Unfortunately, once a passport is reported lost or stolen, it is no longer valid. 

Can I apply for an emergency passport online?

No. You must apply in person at the embassy or consulate for an emergency passport.

Are emergency passports biometric?

Emergency passports are not biometric, meaning they lack the electronic chip containing a digital copy of the passport holder’s information that is present in standard U.S. passports.

Can I travel anywhere with an emergency passport?

Due to the lack of biometric function, some countries may not accept a U.S. emergency passport for entry.

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I Lost My Passport and I Fly Today—Help!

Most of us have been there: prepping our tickets and travel docs for an upcoming flight , only to realize, with a sinking feeling, that the little blue book is nowhere to be found. For many, this is (thankfully) a false alarm—a passport slipped into a different part of your bag, say, or is sitting somewhere in plain sight. For others, a passport really is just that: lost.

According to the U.S. Department of State, more than 300,000 American passports are lost or stolen in the U.S. each year . Regardless of where in the world you are, reporting a lost or stolen passport as soon as possible is necessary to help protect you against identity theft. And no matter how savvy of a traveler you are, it does happen.

"I call it the Passport Day of Infamy," says Traveler deputy digital director Laura Dannen Redman. "My husband realized at 7 a.m. that his passport wasn't in its usual spot. We were supposed to fly at 10 p.m. that day, from New York to meet his entire family in Ireland. The only natural reaction is to panic, right? We tore the apartment apart—drawers emptied out on the ground, entire desks and cabinets moved—until it looked like a crime scene. Our toddler was running around with an atypically mischievous look. Had she taken it? She didn't really talk at the time, so we couldn't interrogate her. We just started looking below waist level. Still, no luck."

What to do if you're in the U.S.

First step: Call a passport agency. After freaking out, Redman called the largest local passport agency to try to make an appointment for that day—the best first step anyone can take. "An agent told me calmly that the earliest appointment we could get at that center was on July 5. (It was June 22.) That wasn't going to work. Would we consider trying Buffalo, New York? she asked. The lines were shorter there. Or somewhere in Connecticut? Philadelphia? Once the shock wore off when she said Buffalo, we started considering if we could get to Philadelphia and back before the flight. Yes, we probably could, but keep in mind we were both supposed to work that day, plus the aforementioned toddler X factor. So we ruled out leaving the state to get a same-day passport."

You can also pay for an expedited passport service. RushMyPassport.com touts that it can replace a passport in under 24 hours—for a fee. The current quote is $399 for a passport to be processed in one business day. Standard service—8 to 10 business days—is $119. Redman's travel agent also recommended CIBTvisas , which can offer emergency passport services for closer to $240. "I called both places and the quickest they could turn around a passport for us, on a Friday, was the following Monday," she says. (Despite it taking a few days for us, you should call anyway if you think this is a plausible option.)

Gather all the necessary documentation ASAP. Whether you work with a passport agency of a private service, you'll likely be asked to provide a passport photo (one color photo is required, taken within the last six months); proof of citizenship (a birth certificate, an expired passport, or a photo of your lost passport); identification (driver's license); proof of flight that day or a travel itinerary; a DS-64 (statement about your lost or stolen passport), and a DS-11 (passport application). Print it all off. Make copies just in case.

As a last resort, go in person to the closest passport agency and beg. "This last one isn't the official recommendation from the U.S. State Department, but it's basically what we did—and what worked in the end," Redman says. "We brought all the required documents, credit cards and a check book (just in case), and went straight to the New York Passport Agency on Hudson Street in Manhattan. They asked if we had an appointment. They sent us to the first floor where, blissfully, there wasn't a line. An agent made sure our paperwork was in order, then sent us upstairs, with the application filled out, to get a number. We were told it may take up to three hours to talk to someone, and it looked like half of New York City was also waiting—with their children—for the same break. Unbelievably, we only waited 90 minutes before our number was called. We handed in the application, forked over $205 (a brand-new, non-emergency adult passport is $110 ), and were told to come back to pick up the passport before they closed at 6 p.m. We had the little blue book in hand—and I had one very relieved husband—by 5 p.m. From initial panic to passport, it took less than 12 hours."

What to do if you're abroad

Check one last time to make sure you really can't find it—and then get in touch. Once a passport is reported as lost or stolen, it's invalid and can no longer be used for travel, so you'll want to dump things out (again) and give them another look (again). Travelers outside the United States should contact their nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to report the loss by phone, email, or even by mail, regardless of the day or time. Michelle Bernier-Toth, managing director of the U.S. State Department's Overseas Citizen Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs, told Traveler that while embassies and consulates cannot issue passports on weekends or holidays when closed, all have after-hours duty officers who can help U.S. citizens in an emergency abroad.

Bring all the same documentation. A police report isn't mandatory, but it can be helpful in confirming the circumstances of loss or theft. (Just don't spend time filing a report if it will seriously delay your travel.) A good rule of thumb? Carry a copy of your passport information page while traveling overseas. According to State Department officials, you won’t be able to fly home with just a copy, but it can help in the event your passport is lost or stolen. Bottom line: "If you lose your U.S. passport while traveling overseas, even in an airport, you will need to replace it before returning home," said Bernier-Toth.

Expect to pay at least $110. For overseas travelers, normal passport fees are collected at the time of application, but there are extenuating circumstances: If you're the victim of a disaster or serious crime , the passport fee may be waived and a limited-validity passport will be issued. When the traveler applies for a full-validity passport upon their return to the United States, a regular fee will be charged. (A new adult passport is $110 .)

This article was originally published in 2018. It has been updated with new information.

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You Lost Your Passport. Now What?

Summer travel season is upon us. Do you know where your passport is?

By Seth Kugel

While just about every other document is accessible online, a lost passport is one of the last analog emergencies that can derail an international trip.

Here’s a guide to replacing a lost passport according to how fast you need it, how much money you have to spare and where you live. (The process for last-minute renewals of expired passports, by the way, is fairly similar.)

If you’ve got at least three weeks

You’ll be OK. On the State Department website, at travel.state.gov/passports , first report your passport lost and then follow the process for a replacement. On the website, you’ll find a list of 7,500 passport acceptance facilities — including post offices, public libraries and clerk of court offices — where you can make an appointment or, in most cases, come during scheduled walk-in hours. They’ll verify your documents and send them to the State Department, and you’ll get your passport in the mail.

Before the day of your appointment, check what you need to bring , a list that will include at least proof of U.S. citizenship, payment (acceptable forms vary by facility), the right forms (for lost passports, that’s the DS-11 and DS-64) and at most facilities, a properly taken photo .

The “routine” processing time to replace a passport takes six to eight weeks and costs $165; choose the “expedited” service, for an additional $60, to receive your passport in two to three weeks.

You might even get yours “faster than advertised,” said Matt Pierce, a managing director of passport services for the State Department, noting that the pandemic-era backlog was cleared up as of December.

Avoid delays by carefully following instructions, and consider spending an additional $19.53 for faster shipping.

When time is tighter

If your trip is less than three weeks away, you’ll need to take the extra step of going through one of 26 passport processing offices across the United States. If you’re doing it without an outside expediter, you must make an appointment online or over the phone, up to 14 days in advance of your trip.

There are no more walk-ins, an option before the pandemic, but the State Department has increased capacity to eliminate the need for them, Mr. Pierce said, and the offices give special priority to documented “ life-or-death emergencies ” of immediate family members. You’ll need to bring all of your documents, and proof you are traveling soon — like a plane or cruise reservation.

Things can get dicey if you need an appointment in the next day or two. In such cases you can call for an appointment, or contact your local member of Congress.

Laurie Lee, the chief executive of Chicago-based Swift Passport and Visa Services , an expediter, has seen cases where clients on the verge of missing a wedding or another once-in-a-lifetime event spend hours refreshing the site to find a last-minute appointment, and even end up booking flights across the country if they can find an opening. That, of course, costs both time and money.

At the passport office, the process will be similar, except that you’ll likely be able to pick up your passport later in the day. In most cases, said Mr. Pierce, you won’t have to return the next day, but it can happen. (You can also have your passport mailed to you, if you have time.)

Using an expediter

If you have at least three business days and are willing to spend hundreds of dollars for help, consider Swift or one of the other 200-plus agencies registered with the State Department as couriers, or expediters.

Expediters are especially helpful for people who live far from the nearest passport office and cannot or do not want to drive or fly there. But they can also benefit anyone having trouble getting a timely appointment, because they have reserved slots that allow them to bring a client application directly to certain passport offices. Swift, for example, can bring 10 applications a day to the Boston office, and five to the Chicago one. Depending on urgency, Swift’s assistance costs between $155 and $599.

To work with an expediter, you will still need to go to your local passport acceptance facility, like a post office, where workers verify and seal your documents in an envelope, which you then send (or hand-deliver) to the expediter. They’ll take care of the rest, and get your new passport back to you.

What can go wrong

If you’re traveling to a passport agency, leave plenty of time to get there. Screwing up something on the form can also lead to delays that cost you your trip.

“Common errors include signing in the wrong place, not putting the date on their application, having an incorrectly sized passport photo or not being framed correctly in the photo,” said Steve Diehl, chief corporate development officer of CIBTvisas , a large expediter.

Once you get it

When your passport arrives, make digital and paper copies. Change your number on trusted traveler programs like Global Entry, and remember that if your old passport had a visa in it for the country you’re headed to, you’ll also need to rush a replacement of that.

If you do find your old passport later, keep it as a souvenir: It is no longer valid.

If you lose it while abroad

First of all, try not to. Unless you are traveling in a country that strictly requires you to have your passport on your person at all times, stow it in a hotel safe and carry around a photocopy, plus your drivers license.

But if you do lose the passport or have it stolen, report it online to protect yourself from identity theft and then contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for an emergency appointment. You’ll need that paper or a digital copy of your passport, plus similar documents to what you would need for a replacement in the United States. You may receive either an actual replacement passport or an emergency version, usually good for one year.

In a real emergency, you can try a last ditch maneuver: Ask the airline to contact U.S. Customs and Border Patrol to seek permission for you to enter the country without a passport.

Preventative measures

Several expediters advised that many of their clients misplaced their passports during recent moves, so when you pack up your home, be sure to remember where your passport is packed.

Oh, and before you give up on that lost passport, check your home copier or scanner. “I can’t tell you how often people find it in their copy machine,” said Ms. Lee.

An earlier version of this article transposed numbers on a form needed to replace a lost passport with the U.S. government. It is the DS-64 form, not the DS-46.

How we handle corrections

Seth Kugel is the columnist for “ Tripped Up ,” an advice column that helps readers navigate the often confusing world of travel. More about Seth Kugel

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I lost my passport and I fly tomorrow: What do I do?

Picture this: You have a flight tomorrow, but you’ve discovered you lost your passport . You’ve torn apart your house or hotel room, and you’re positive it’s nowhere to be found. What in the world are you going to do? First, take a deep breath. A lost passport is a serious cause for concern, but this guide will walk you through what to do if you’ve lost your passport, including sharing the fastest way to replace a lost passport.

In this post

What do you do if you can’t find your passport?

Report the lost or stolen passport.

• Apply for an urgent or emergency passport

What if you can’t get a replacement passport?

Our tips to avoid losing your passport in the future, how to protect your passport when traveling.

First, make sure you’ve checked absolutely everywhere before you do anything else. We’ve created a list of common hiding spots for misplaced passports, both at home and in hotel rooms or vacation rentals.

• Suitcases or other travel bags
• Jacket or pants pockets
• Your car (see if it fell out somewhere)
• In a desk drawer
• On your nightstand (or behind it)
• Under the bed
• Between couch cushions
• Beneath the mail you picked up when you got home
• In the safe

You should also check with anyone you live with or traveled with if they’ve seen or moved your passport.

If you’re positive your passport isn’t in any of these places, it’s time to pick up the phone and call the following places.

• The last airport you traveled through with your passport in hand
• The last airline you flew with your passport, in case you left it onboard
• The last hotel you stayed at
• Any places you visited when you might’ve had your passport on you, like a museum or restaurant
• Your last taxi or rideshare driver

If your passport is truly gone, it’s time to report it as lost or stolen to the US Department of State. There are three ways to do so.

• Submit Form DS-64 and Form DS-11 online at travel.state.gov
• Call 1-877-487-2778 (TTY 1-888-874-7793)
• Mail Form DS-64 to the address specified on the form

If your flight is imminent, you can apply for an urgent or emergency passport

If you have an upcoming international flight within 72 hours, you may be able to get a replacement passport in time. The process and timeline depend on where you are when you’ve lost your passport.

If you’re in the US

If you’re in the US, you will have to apply for a replacement passport in person, not by mail or online. To do so, you must make an appointment at one of the passport agencies and centers; call 1-877-487-2778 (TTY 1-888-874-7793). While there is no guarantee that you will be able to get an appointment, it is possible to get a same-day passport in some circumstances. Note that the only available appointments may be at a passport office or center in another US city, so you would have to handle transportation.

If you’re abroad

If you’re abroad, contact the nearest US embassy or consulate; find the full list of locations at usembassy.gov . US embassies and consulates can issue emergency passports that will get you home.

If you aren’t able to get a replacement passport, you will have to change your travel plans. You cannot travel internationally by air without a passport. Check with your airline ASAP to see if you can change your flight; you may be able to push it back a few days. If you need to cancel your trip entirely, do so before the flight departs. You might be able to receive e-credit for your canceled flight, depending on the fare class booked, which you could use to book a new flight later on. You should then check with your travel insurance policy or credit card–provided insurance policy about refunds for any pre-booked activities from your trip, including hotels and tours.

• Always keep your passport in the same place, both at home and when you stay in hotels or vacation rentals.
• Keep your passport in a trackable passport holder, such as one that has a slot for Apple AirTag or Tile trackers.
• When you’re en route to your destination, designate a specific spot in your bag for your passport. Check it regularly during your travels.
• If you put your passport in a hotel safe, put one of your shoes in the safe, too. You probably won’t walk out the door with only one shoe, and you’ll remember to check the safe.

When you’re traveling, always keep your passport in a secure location, whether that’s an interior jacket pocket, a money belt, or an anti-theft bag. It’s usually best to leave your passport in your accommodation once you’ve reached your destination, ideally locked up in the safe. But set a reminder on your phone to check the safe before you check out!

If you’ve lost your passport and need to fly imminently, you must call the US Department of State to notify officials of your lost passport. Then you can attempt to get a replacement passport before your flight, whether you’re at home or abroad. If you’re not successful in replacing your lost passport, you may have to postpone or cancel your international trip.

How KAYAK knows what to put in this guide

I’m a freelance travel writer with a decade of experience. To put together this guide, I researched the options for emergency passports on the websites of the US Department of State and several US embassies. As someone who travels abroad frequently, my passport is an essential tool, so I’ve shared some of my personal tips for keeping your passport safe.

Frequently asked questions about lost passports

You cannot fly internationally without a passport. If you lose your passport, you must acquire a replacement before flying. You can, however, fly domestically with another form of TSA-accepted ID, such as a driver’s license.

It’s possible to get a same-day passport. This is more common abroad, as US embassies and consulates can issue same-day emergency passports. In the US, you must make an appointment to get a same-day passport, and those appointments are hard to get.

If you’re abroad, you can contact your nearest US embassy or consulate to get an emergency passport, which can be used temporarily to get home.

The foregoing article was last updated on the 21st of August 2024. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency, or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information. Sources: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/lost-stolen.html#replacelost https://fr.usembassy.gov/passports/emergency-passports/ https://in.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/passports/emergency-passport/ https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html

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I Lost My Passport and I Fly Tomorrow

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You’re all packed for your trip when suddenly you realize, “I can’t find my passport!” Panic sets in. You’ll need your passport to board your flight, and you begin to wonder what to do as you frantically search for it.

If you can’t find your passport, stay calm, even though it feels like a disaster. Believe me, I know, as it’s happened to me. As someone who’s lost a passport before a flight, I’ve been through several scenarios on how to rectify the situation.

Unfortunately, the pandemic set in motion a delay that continues to make applying for, renewing or replacing a passport much more time-consuming than before. But, don’t lose hope.

There are ways to solve this problem, though you’ll need patience, travel flexibility and some extra money to pay for the inconvenience of replacing a lost passport the day before a flight.

Here are some helpful suggestions if you can’t find your passport, but remember each person will experience different hurdles depending on where they are, their travel timeline and the reason for travel.

What to do if you lost your passport in the U.S.

First of all, if you’re flying domestically, you don’t need a passport to travel — you’ll simply need official U.S. identification, like a driver’s license.

If flying internationally and you lost your passport before a flight, the speed at which you can get your passport replaced will come down to the purpose of your travel. If you’re traveling for vacation, the priority for the passport agency to replace it will be lower than if you’re traveling for an urgent work trip or a family emergency.

Make an appointment

Your first step to getting a last-minute replacement of your passport is to try to secure one of an extremely limited number of appointments at a passport agency. Call 877-487-2778 to see if there is availability at one of the 26 regional passport agencies across the country.

Since you will need to report to the office in person, you may have to fly or drive to one that is some distance away, which can be costly. In my experience, I had to fly to New York, and I met people from Anchorage, Honolulu, Denver and Tucson in line with me.

Appointments are for those with emergency needs, those traveling internationally within two weeks or those who need a foreign visa within the next four weeks. Since your flight leaves tomorrow, you’ll want to act fast. Keep in mind, getting an appointment is tough, but there’s always a chance that a last-minute spot has opened up.

Still, the likelihood that your application will be processed in the next 24 hours is slim — unless you live right next to a passport agency and are lucky enough to score an appointment there. It’s wise to begin thinking about delaying your trip a few days, looking for an alternative domestic destination or postponing the trip entirely.

Don’t go to one of these agencies in hopes of a walk-in appointment — you will be turned away. Also, it is important to note that if you do get an appointment, it can still take the entire day — or longer — for the replacement passport to be issued.

Once you secure an appointment, you'll want to move quickly to make the flight or travel changes you think might be necessary, keeping in mind that a replacement may not come the same day as your appointment. Mine took 36 hours despite the fact that I sat there all day waiting.

» Learn more: Do you need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

Use a third-party expeditor

If you’re traveling for vacation, applying for a replacement passport through a passport expeditor can simplify the process, albeit for a fee. Options include companies like RushMyPassport and CIBT . Both can help you get a replacement on a faster timeline than applying on your own through the post office. Just keep in mind that post-pandemic delays have slowed the process.

You might have to pay several hundred dollars for their help, but for those in a rush, this is the best option. Contact the company directly to find out which expedited options are available to you.

If you apply on your own through the U.S. Department of State, it can take as long as 10 to 13 weeks to replace a passport, or seven to nine weeks if paying the passport agency for expedited service. Using a third-party expeditor can cut this timeframe substantially, sometimes to as short as one week or less.

If you do decide to reschedule your trip, keep in mind that if you have travel plans within nine weeks, it’s possible to make an appointment for a replacement passport.

If you’re traveling for an emergency

If you lost a passport before a trip and have a family emergency (such as a death or imminent death), you have a higher priority than leisure travelers for getting a replacement. You’ll need to have proof of the situation as well as your travel itinerary.

The National Passport Processing Center allows immediate family members in this unfortunate situation to make an urgent appointment at a passport agency if traveling within three business days. You can call 877-487-2778 during business hours or 202-647-4000 (after 8 p.m. ET on weekdays or weekends) for an appointment if you are traveling for a life-or-death emergency situation.

» Learn more: What to do if you lose your passport

What to do if you lost your passport abroad

Passport replacement is a different process if you’re already outside the U.S. You’ll need to seek out your closest U.S. consulate or embassy, which may only be open on weekdays. This means you’ll need to begin rescheduling your remaining travel plans, as replacing the passport may not be immediate, especially if it’s the weekend.

When you’re traveling by air, you need to complete Form DS-64 for lost or stolen passports, as well as the standard DS-11 form when visiting the embassy. If your passport was stolen, it’s recommended to bring a police report, too. Proof of immediate travel, a passport photo and another form of U.S. identification are also necessary.

When a replacement passport is issued outside the U.S., you may receive an “emergency passport.” These temporary documents allow you to travel right away, but you’ll need to apply for a normal passport book when you return home.

» Learn more: Can you take your own passport photo?

How to avoid extra costs from a trip delay

If you used a credit card with travel insurance to pay for your trip, you may want to contact the card issuer’s insurance carrier to see if your policy covers expenses you incur while dealing with your lost or stolen passport. With many policies, this is a covered reason for a trip delay. Some hotels may also be generous or flexible if you contact them directly and explain your situation. There are no guarantees, but it’s always worth a try.

» Learn more: How free travelers insurance through credit cards works

Do you have to report your passport lost or stolen?

As soon as you’ve exhausted every possible avenue in your search for your passport, it’s in your best interest to report a passport lost or stolen to have it invalidated. This is to help you avoid any type of identity theft by someone who comes into possession of it. Just remember that once you report your passport lost, if you find it again, it’s no longer valid and you can’t use it to travel. So search very carefully, as there’s no turning back. Believe me, I learned that the hard way.

Note that reporting it lost or stolen doesn’t start the process for a replacement. To get a new passport, you’ll have to appear in person with form DS-11 to apply for a new one.

What to do if you lost your passport the day before a flight

There are steps you can take to replace your lost passport. You’ll need to be flexible with your travel plans, take urgent action with next steps and be willing to pay the extra expenses to get a passport quickly.

Unfortunately, it’s not easy to get a passport on the same day, and it requires some luck to get a last-minute, same-day appointment. In these situations, you still may not be able to make your flight the next day, but you might be able to salvage part of your trip if you can’t postpone it entirely. Life-or-death emergencies will have priority for faster application processing.

Either way, replacing a passport at the last minute is an extremely frustrating process, and post-pandemic delays in processing haven’t helped.

That said, losing a passport isn’t the end of the world — try to put things in perspective to not be too disappointed. There are methods to get a replacement passport, but they requires patience.

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On a similar note...

Protect Your Trip »

How to Protect Your Passport While Traveling

Pro tips for keeping essential travel documents safe in transit.

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Nothing spoils an international vacation faster than misplacing a passport.

You've packed the perfect carry-on . You've armed yourself with tech-savvy travel accessories, plenty of cash, an up-to-date passport and photocopies of crucial travel documents (your driver's license and flight tickets). Yet, despite taking these precautions, you're still vulnerable to pickpockets, water damage and losing your passport in a foreign country . And let's be honest: Nothing spoils an international vacation faster than misplacing a passport. After all, a passport is your key to crisscrossing the globe; without it, you'll need to get a replacement from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate (or passport-processing location in the U.S.), and you'll be stalled from jetting off to new countries or returning home. So, on your next getaway, safeguard your passport by following these expert-endorsed strategies.

[See: How to Fly Through Airport Security .]

Pay Attention to Your Surroundings

When it comes to ensuring your passport stays protected while traveling, the key is staying aware of your environment, says Michelle Bernier-Toth, managing director of overseas citizen services for the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. "I'm not sure anything is absolutely foolproof," she cautions, but carrying a passport card or copy of your passport can help, along with utilizing extra tools, such as a money belt or a concealed pouch containing a passport and cash or a credit card. In some countries, including Russia and China, "it's the law that you carry your passport," she explains, and while there's no tried-and-true method for ensuring your passport is out of harm's way, keeping it concealed underneath your clothing or in an inconspicuous pouch is a smart idea.

"In countries where you're not required to carry your passport , we recommend locking it up," Bernier-Toth adds, noting it's wise to use a hotel safe and keep your suitcase protected with a travel lock while you're away from your room.

Make Multiple Copies

Sure, it may seem like a no-brainer to stow away copies of your passport in different compartments of your carry-on or even different pieces of luggage. But according to Tom Spagnola, senior vice president, supplier relations at CheapOair, beyond ensuring you have extra copies of crucial documents, you should "always make sure a friend or a family member has a copy." That way, if you do misplace a passport while traveling internationally, you can easily access need-to-know information from trusted allies at home to expedite the process of replacing your passport. He also ensures he has a copy of his driver's license on him while traveling abroad, as an additional form of identification.

[See: 7 Things TSA Wants You to Know About Airport Security .]

Stay Consistent

An easy way to minimize your odds of losing your passport is following smart travel habits . You should always keep your passport in the same place while traveling, says Carol Margolis, the founder of Smart Women Travelers, a website for female travelers that offers recommendations for optimizing safety while traveling. Her method: keeping her passport shielded in a passport cover inside a zippered pocket within her laptop tote. "When I’m at my destination and touring a city, I have a waistband holder for my passport that I wear under my shirt," she adds. When it comes to keeping your passport out of sight while traveling, Margolis says to have it near you at all times, and she cautions against keeping it in a checked bag – or in a carry-on stowed away in an overhead bin. "And keep it in good condition, as damaged passports (ripped pages, tears, stains) may not [get] you into a country," she adds.

Use a Strategic Location

Instead of digging into your back pocket for your passport and praying thieves don't identify you as an unsuspecting target, keep your passport in an easily accessible front pocket or undercover belt, Spagnola says. And when retrieving your passport, make sure you're in a private place to deter lurking pickpockets, he says. If you're traveling to a tourist-heavy destination, Spagnola also recommends blending into a large group and avoiding putting your passport, money, credit cards or any valuable items in a purse, or laptop bag, which can easily be snatched. He cautions that it's essential to understand the culture of the country you're visiting before venturing outside your hotel or resort, where you can easily expose yourself as a tourist. And if your passport is lost or stolen, file a police report immediately and alert the closest U.S. embassy or consulate, Bernier-Toth says. Then, you can take the appropriate steps for declaring a missing passport and arranging an in-person appointment to receive an emergency passport.

Aside from keeping your passport out of sight, it's also important to conceal it from the elements, as passports with significant water damage, particularly on the personal information section and cover, can be deemed no longer valid. "If you're going to be in a zone where a hurricane is bearing down, use a waterproof pack," Bernier-Toth says.

[Read: 7 Affordable Places in Europe to Visit Right Now .]

Know When You'll Need a Passport

If you do misplace or lose your passport while traveling abroad, you will need to get a replacement to get through airport security and customs. "In general, it is not possible to travel internationally [without a passport] at least by air, " Bernier-Toth explains. Still, carrying another form of identification, such as a Global Entry or NEXUS Trusted Traveler card, can help verify your identity and make the process smoother. And in some cases, such as entering and exiting Canada by land or sea, you may use a passport card, a NEXUS card, a passport or another approved document, including an enhanced driver's license, a state-issued ID card which offers proof of U.S. citizenship. Being aware of when you need various documents will make international travel easier to manage.

Tags: Travel , Vacations , Passports

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Lost Your Passport? Here’s How to Get a New One Quickly

We’ve broken down the stressful process with the steps to take, forms to fill out, and other important reminders..

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Whether you’ve misplaced your passport while at home or on the road, these are the forms, processes, and resources you’ll need.

Photo by Rachaphak/Shutterstock

Losing your passport is a frightening and confusing experience. Whether you can’t locate that all-important blue book at home or have misplaced it while traveling in another country, the one consolation is that it’s possible to get another one quickly. And, speaking from personal experience, the process of replacing a lost passport can be inconvenient and stressful, but it works. Here’s what to do if you lose your passport.

Report your passport lost or stolen

The first thing you should do is report your lost or stolen passport so that it can be canceled. You can do this online, via phone, or by mail. Your passport is no longer valid as soon as it’s been reported lost or stolen, so canceling it online or by phone are the best options to prevent anyone else from using your passport immediately.

If you’re in the U.S.

Next, follow the standard application forms to apply for a new passport. If you’re in the United States, you’ll need to use Form DS-11 , which is specific to missing passports. This must be done in person at a passport acceptance facility (including some post offices), where documents are processed and then mailed to a passport office. You can make an appointment online, but if you have travel plans within three weeks, it is better to go to a passport agency , which can handle the application on the spot or at least within a few days.

If you’re in a foreign country

You’re going to need to visit the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, which might may require travel to a different city within that country (they’re typically in the capital or largest cities). There you’ll have to apply for and receive a new passport before you can return to the United States. You might be able to use a passport card if you’re entering by land from Canada and Mexico, but once you cancel your passport, your passport card will become invalidated, too.

When visiting the embassy, bring:

• a passport photo
• another form of government-issued identification (like a driver’s license)
• proof of U.S. citizenship (like a photocopy of your passport)
• your travel itinerary

Since this process will get delayed even further if you’ve also lost your government-issued identification, we recommend keeping photocopies of your documents somewhere else you access, such as on your phone or in your Google Drive.

Two forms must be completed for an in-person application overseas: DS-11 and DS-64 . One of the forms includes a statement on the circumstances of how and where you lost your passport. If you believe your passport was stolen, it is helpful (although not necessary) to file a police report.

Replacement passports can be issued within a day or two if needed, but only during business hours (weekends and holidays may add extra wait time).

If you’re somewhere with an entry or exit visa

Make sure to consider any necessary visas that some countries require for entry and exit. Because they were issued in conjunction with the original passport, they will need to be reapplied for, which can add extra time and cost. You will need the replacement passport before you can apply for any necessary visas.

Important tips to remember when replacing a lost passport

The one upside to losing a passport? You can get a new one quickly.

Photo by Shutterstock

Always have a photo or photocopy of your passport

It’s a smart move to make a copy of your passport (or snap a photo on your phone) and keep it separate from your passport book. It’s not possible to travel using a photocopy (or just your passport number if you have it memorized), but this information can help expedite the passport process for embassy officials if you’re overseas.

You won’t be able to use your original passport if you find it

If you find your original passport but it has already been canceled, it is no longer valid.

Your replacement passport is valid for 10 years—with some exceptions

When your new passport arrives, it should be valid for the standard 10 years unless you have lost your passport once before. In that case, your new one will only be valid for a year—and you won’t be eligible for a full-validity passport for another 10 years (assuming you don’t lose it again in that time period). That means you’ll have to reapply every year for 10 years—good incentive to keep your passport somewhere safe. If you were issued an emergency passport overseas, this may also be limited in validity. This means that within six months, you will have to apply for a new passport again and pay additional passport renewal fees ($130), but that new passport will be valid for the standard 10 years.

You can use your travel insurance to cover the cost of replacing your lost passport

Travel insurance can help cover the associated cost of getting a replacement passport (including flight change fees), but before you fork over for insurance, check to see if the credit card you used to pay for the trip includes similar benefits to reimburse any expenses.

If you have two valid U.S. passports, you can use the second one to get home

If you have two valid U.S. passports ( yes, it’s possible to get a second passport ), you will still need to apply for a new one to get home if you are traveling with only one. If you have both with you, then you can use the second one to get home. If you lose your passport in the United States, you can still use your other passport to travel while you apply for a replacement, because it has a different number.

You don’t need to reapply for Global Entry, but you do need to update your information

If you have Global Entry membership that was tied to your lost passport, you don’t need to reapply for the trusted traveler program. But once you have your new passport, you’ll need to log into the trusted traveler program website and enter your new passport number. The same is true with the Mobile Passport app , which will also require your new passport number.

Here's what to do if you lose your passport while traveling abroad

• If your passport is lost or stolen while you're abroad , it does not mean you're stuck in the country forever. 
• There are seven easy steps that you can take to acquire a quick and temporary passport to get you back home. 
• To do so, you must fill out the appropriate paperwork and visit the US consulate or embassy. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Losing a passport or having it stolen in a foreign country is a hassle, but it doesn't mean you're stuck in that country forever.

Insider consulted the US Department of State's website to see what American travelers should do if they find themselves without a passport while abroad.

Here are the seven steps you should take if you lose your passport while traveling in another country. 

1. First, you must find and contact the nearest US embassy or consulate.

You'll need to report your lost or stolen passport to the consular section specifically. The contact information for US consulates and embassies around the world can be found on the department of state's country-specific information page of their website.

Make sure to tell the consular officer you're speaking with if you've been the victim of a crime. It's also important to let the officer know when you're planning on leaving the country — especially if it's soon — so they know whether to get you a limited validity emergency passport or full validity passport.

2. If your passport has been stolen, file a police report.

Although filing a police report isn't necessary, it can help confirm that your passport was stolen. However, it most likely won't speed up the process of getting a new passport. If you're scheduled to travel back to the US soon, you might want to skip filing the report.

3. Take a new passport photo.

Before heading to the embassy or consulate, find a place where you can have your passport photo taken. Arriving at the embassy or consulate with a photo will help speed up the process of getting a replacement passport.

4. Fill out an application for a new passport and a statement regarding your lost or stolen passport.

Along with taking a new passport photo, there are two forms that you'll need to fill out either before going to the consulate or while you're there. One is a standard application for a US passport and one is a statement regarding a lost or stolen passport , which will ensure your passport is invalidated, preventing anyone else from being able to use it.

It's important to note that once you fill out and submit these forms, your passport will no longer be active. So if you happen to find your passport later, you will not be able to use it and will still need to get a new one. 

5. Go to the nearest US embassy or consulate to obtain your new passport.

You'll need a to bring a few documents with you in order to receive your replacement passport:

• Your new passport photo
• Some type of identification such as a driver's license
• Some type of travel itinerary (airplane or train ticket)
• Evidence of US citizenship (a birth certificate or photocopy of your missing passport)
• Your application for a passport and statement regarding your lost or stolen passport, as mentioned above

6. Be prepared to pay the fee.

Unless you've been a victim of a disaster or serious crime, you'll be expected to pay the normal passport fee — $140 — for your replacement passport. If you can't afford the fee, you'll have the opportunity to name someone who can pay the fee. 

It takes anywhere from four to six weeks to get a passport renewed within the US. This wait time is significantly reduced if you're renewing a passport abroad due to theft or you losing it.

If you have almost immediate travel plans back to the US, you'll be issued an emergency passport that will come in 24 hours and will only get you back to the US. You'll have to get a full-validity passport once you're back home, however. Otherwise, it can take a few days to get a new passport, depending on the country you're in, because it'll have to be shipped from the US.

There are a few other things to keep in mind when replacing your passport.

While replacement passports are usually valid for 10 years for adults and five years for minors, if you receive a limited-validity, emergency passport (if you're scheduled to leave the country almost immediately), then you'll need to turn in your emergency passport once you're back in the US in order to receive a full-validity passport.

Additionally, consulates or embassies can't issue passports on weekends or holidays. The only exception to this is life or death emergencies, in which case travelers can contact an after-hours duty officer to issue a passport.

• How to get a new passport or renew an old one in a few simple steps
• The most powerful passports in the world in 2020, ranked
• 7 tips for keeping your passport safe when you travel

• Main content

Steps To Take If You've Lost Your Passport Before A Trip

L osing your passport right before a trip can be a stressful and alarming experience, but it's important to stay calm and take immediate steps to resolve the situation. Whether you've lost your passport domestically or while already traveling, there are specific actions you can take to ensure that your travel plans are not completely derailed.

Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do if you've lost your passport before a trip.

1. Confirm That Your Passport Is Lost

Before taking any further steps, make sure that your passport is truly lost and not just put into the wrong place. Retrace your steps and check all the places where you might have left them, such as your home, office, car, or a recent travel location. If you were recently at an airport, hotel, or public place, contact the lost and found departments of those places to see if your passport has been turned in.

2. Report the Loss Immediately

Once you are certain that your passport is lost, the next step is to report it immediately. If you are in your home country, you should report the loss to your country's passport-issuing authority. In the United States, for example, you would report the loss to the U.S. Department of State by submitting a Form DS-64, either online or in person. Reporting the loss is crucial because it protects you from identity theft or fraudulent use of your passport.

If you are already abroad, contact the nearest embassy of your home country to report the loss. They will guide you through the steps to report the passport as lost or stolen and begin the process of obtaining a replacement.

3. Apply for a Replacement Passport

After reporting your passport as lost, you'll need to apply for a replacement. The process varies depending on whether you are at home or abroad, but it generally involves filling out a form, providing proof of identity, and submitting recent passport photos.

If you're in your home country, visit a passport agency or application acceptance facility to submit your application in person. If you're in a hurry, you can get your expedited travel passport from urgentpassport.com .

If you're abroad, your country's embassy or consulate will assist you in obtaining an emergency passport or temporary travel document. These documents are usually valid for a short period and are intended to get you home or allow you to continue your travels until you can obtain a full replacement passport.

4. Gather Necessary Documentation

To apply for a replacement passport, you will need to gather the necessary documentation. This typically includes:

Proof of citizenship : A birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or another document that proves your citizenship.

Proof of identity : A driver's license, government-issued ID, or another form of identification.

Passport photos : You will need recent passport-sized photos that meet your country's specifications.

It's important to note that the requirements may vary slightly depending on your country's specific processes, so check with the relevant authorities to ensure you have everything you need.

5. Consider Your Travel Plans

You may need to adjust your travel plans if your trip is imminent. Check with your travel provider to see if they can accommodate changes or provide flexibility due to your situation. If you're unable to travel on your planned date due to the loss of your passport, inquire about rescheduling your trip or getting a refund.

It's also a good idea to purchase travel insurance that covers trip interruptions, including the loss of important documents like a passport. If you already have travel insurance, review your policy to see if you're eligible for any assistance or compensation.

6. Stay Informed and Prepared

Throughout this process, stay informed about the status of your passport application or replacement document. Keep in regular contact with the passport agency or embassy handling your case, and be sure to follow up on any outstanding issues.

7. Maintain a Positive Attitude

Finally, while losing your passport is undoubtedly stressful, it's important to maintain a positive attitude . Most countries have established procedures to handle such situations, and with prompt action, you can usually resolve the issue in time to salvage your travel plans.

Losing your passport before a trip is a challenging situation, but by taking immediate and informed steps, you can minimize the disruption to your travel plans. Confirm the loss, report it to the appropriate authorities, apply for a replacement, and adjust your travel plans as needed. With careful preparation and a calm approach, you can navigate the process and get back to enjoying your travel adventure.

The post Steps To Take If You've Lost Your Passport Before A Trip appeared first on The Rebel Chick .

The Passport Office Blog

Travel Tips and News

Lost Your Passport in Another Country? Here’s What to Do

Losing your passport while you’re in another country can feel overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to get a replacement and continue your trip. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do if you’ve Lost your passport outside the United States.

Stay Calm and Contact Local Authorities

The first thing to do when you realize your passport is lost is to stay calm. Losing your passport in another country doesn’t mean you’re stranded. Start by reporting the lost passport to the local authorities. Filing a police report is important because it serves as an official record of the loss, which may be needed later.

Contact Your Country’s Embassy or Consulate

Once you have reported your lost passport, contact your home country’s nearest embassy or consulate. They will guide you through getting a new passport or temporary travel document.

How to Find Your Local Embassy

• Search Online : Look up your country’s embassy in the country you’re visiting.
• Visit Your Government’s Website : For U.S. citizens, the State Department’s website is travel.state.gov , where you can find embassies.
• Ask Your Hotel : Hotel staff often know where embassies are and can help with directions.
• Call Your Country’s Emergency Line : They can guide you to the nearest embassy.

When you call or visit the embassy, be ready to provide details like:

• Your identity and citizenship
• When and where you lost your passport
• Any form of identification you still have (like a driver’s license or a copy of your passport)

The embassy will let you know the following steps, including scheduling an appointment and providing certain documents.

Gather Necessary Documents

To get a replacement passport, you’ll need to gather some documents. Since you’re in another country, you might not have access to everything, but here’s what you may need:

• A copy of your lost passport, if available
• Another form of ID (driver’s license, state ID)
• A recent passport-sized photo (many embassies have photo booths or can direct you to a local photographer)
• Your travel itinerary to show your travel plans

If you don’t have copies of your documents, the embassy will work with you to confirm your identity. You may be asked questions or directed to additional steps to prove who you are.

Apply for an Emergency Passport or Temporary Travel Document

The embassy can often issue an emergency passport or temporary travel document that allows you to continue your trip or return home. Emergency passports are usually valid for a short period but are good enough to get you back to your home country.

Getting an emergency passport can vary by country and situation, but it typically takes a few days. If you need to travel urgently, let the embassy know, and they’ll do what they can to expedite the process.

Consider Applying for a Full Passport Replacement

If you’re planning to stay abroad for an extended time, or if you don’t want the hassle of applying for a full passport again when you return home, ask the embassy if they can issue a regular passport. This may take longer than an emergency passport, but it can save you from reapplying later.

Stay Updated on the Status of Your New Passport

Once you’ve applied, stay in touch with the embassy or consulate to track the status of your new passport. Be prepared to pick it up in person or arrange to send it to you if your embassy offers that option.

Plan for the Unexpected

Even though losing your passport in another country isn’t ideal, it’s manageable with the proper steps. Keep a close eye on your new passport and consider carrying a digital or paper copy while traveling. This way, you’ll have important details if anything happens again.

Still Have Questions About Lost Passport Replacement?

If you’re unsure about any of the steps to replace your lost passport, don’t hesitate to call The Passport Office . We’re well-versed in lost passport replacement and can help answer your questions. If you meet the criteria, we can also provide you with a replacement passport to get you back on track.

Don’t Have a Passport Yet? Get One Before You Travel

If you’re planning an international trip and don’t have a passport yet, or if your passport is about to expire, consider applying now. The Passport Office offers expedited services to help you get a new passport quickly so you’re ready to travel.

By The Passport Office

Related post, how to renew your passport in florida: 3 easy options, when should you renew your u.s. passport, 7 warm weather destinations to escape the u.s. winter, leave a reply cancel reply.

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Routine:  6-8 weeks*

Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*

*Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel.  Processing times only include the time your application is at a passport agency or center.

• It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center. It may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport after we print it. 
• Processing times + mailing times = total time to get a passport

Urgent Travel:  See our Get my Passport Fast page. 

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Foreign visitors: what to do if your visa or passport is lost or stolen

If you are in the U.S. and your visa or passport was lost or stolen, learn how to report it and apply for a new one.

Follow these steps from the U.S. Department of State to report and replace your lost or stolen visa or passport.

LAST UPDATED: May 22, 2024

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Lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found passports and other travel documents

Floods in British Columbia

If you’re directly affected by the floods, you may be able to get

• free replacement of documents that are lost, damaged, destroyed or inaccessible due to the floods
• urgent processing and a refund for an application you’ve submitted because of the floods

Find out how to apply

Answer a few questions and we’ll tell you what do to return or replace a Canadian refugee travel document, certificate of identity, or passport.

We may review or investigate how your passport was lost, stolen or damaged before issuing you a replacement. This may cause delays.

My travel document is

A travel document can be a Canadian passport, refugee travel document or certificate of identity.

What kind of travel document is it?

Is the passport expired?

Where are you?

• In the United States
• Outside Canada and the United States

Are you in Canada right now?

A travel document is considered inaccessible when, for example, you’ve submitted it as part of an application for a foreign visa and you need to travel before it’s returned to you.

• In the United States or abroad

Select document type

• Adult passport
• Child passport (under 16 years old)
• Refugee travel document or certificate of identity
• found after being lost

Replacing an expired lost, stolen or damaged passport (expired passport)

Since your passport has expired, you don’t need to fill out a special form.

Renew your passport or apply for a new one in the normal way. Renewing your passport is simpler than applying for a new one.

Check to see if you’re eligible to renew your passport (opens in a new tab)   .

If you’re not eligible to renew your passport, just

• apply for a new adult passport in Canada
• apply for a new adult passport from the US
• apply for a new adult passport outside Canada and the US

Replacing an expired lost, stolen or damaged passport (not sure if it’s expired)

If you’re not sure whether your passport has expired, submit your application with a completed copy of the declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document [PPTC 203] (PDF, 1.33 MB) form.

Replacing a lost or stolen passport in Canada (adult passport)

Contact us to report the loss or theft.

Call us at 1-800-567-6868 as soon as possible.

Check if you can renew the passport

Check if you’re eligible to renew your passport (opens in a new tab)   . Renewing your passport is simpler than applying for a new one.

If you’re not eligible, just apply for a new passport (opens in a new tab)   .

Apply for your replacement

Given that the lost or stolen passport is still valid, you need to

• submit a declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document [PPTC 203] (PDF, 1.33 MB) with the rest of your application
• the regular fees and
• the extra $45 fee for replacing a lost or stolen passport

Replacing a lost or stolen passport in the US (adult passport)

Replacing a lost or stolen passport abroad (adult passport).

Contact the nearest Government of Canada office (opens in a new tab)   as soon as possible to report the loss or theft.

Replacing an expired lost, stolen or damaged passport (child passport)

If the passport has expired, you don’t need to fill out a special form. Apply for a passport in the normal way.

Learn how to

• apply for a child passport in Canada
• apply for a child passport from the US
• apply for a child passport outside Canada and the US

Replacing a lost or stolen passport in Canada (child passport)

Follow the steps to apply for a child passport in Canada (opens in a new tab)  

Given that the child’s lost or stolen passport is still valid, you need to

Replacing a lost or stolen passport in the US (child passport)

Call us at 1-800-567-6868 as soon as possible to report the loss or theft.

Follow the steps to apply for a child passport from the US (opens in a new tab)  

Replacing a lost or stolen passport abroad (child passport)

Follow the steps to apply for a child passport from outside Canada and the US (opens in a new tab)  

Replacing a certificate of identity or refugee travel document

Call us at 1-800-242-2100 as soon as possible.

Teletypewriter (TTY) service

You can call us via the Bell Relay service if you are hearing impaired or if you have a speech impediment.

• Voice to TTY: 1-800-855-0511
• TTY to Voice: 711
• You need a TTY device (machine, cell phone or laptop on TTY mode) to use this service.

Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (your local time)

Not available on statutory holidays

Follow the steps to apply for a travel document (opens in a new tab)  

Given that your certificate of identity is still valid, you need to

• submit a declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document [PPTC 203] (PDF, 1.33 MB) with your application
• the extra $45 fee for replacing a lost or stolen certificate of identity

You need to be in Canada to get travel document services

If you have an emergency, contact the nearest  Government of Canada office abroad .

Replacing a damaged passport in Canada (adult passport)

You need to renew your passport or apply for a new adult passport.

Given that your damaged passport is still valid, you need to

• pay the regular fees for a new passport

Replacing a damaged passport in the US (adult passport)

You need to renew your passport from the US or apply for a new one.

Replacing a damaged passport abroad (adult passport)

You need to renew your passport from outside Canada and the US, or apply for a new adult passport.

Replacing a damaged passport in Canada (child passport)

You need to apply for a new passport for the child. Follow the steps to apply for a child passport in Canada (opens in a new tab)   .

Given that the damaged passport is still valid, you need to

Replacing a damaged passport from the US (child passport)

You need to apply for a new passport for the child. Follow the steps to apply for a child passpor from the US (opens in a new tab)   .

Replacing a damaged passport abroad (child passport)

You need to apply for a new passport for the child. Follow the steps to apply for a child passport from outside Canada and the US (opens in a new tab)   .

Contact us about your inaccessible passport or other travel document.

You’ll need to submit proof of where your travel document is and tell us the reason you can’t wait for it to be returned.

Find out how to contact us

Contact us about your seized or surrendered passport or other travel document

Travel documents seized by law enforcement authorities or ordered surrendered by a court of law are usually returned to us. We keep them until they expire, then destroy them.

If you want us to return a seized or surrendered travel document to you before it expires, mail or fax us a request. We’ll start a travel document entitlement review once you submit

• your full name
• your date of birth
• your current mailing address and phone number
• an explanation of how and why the travel document was taken from you
• a copy of the most recent court documents about release conditions (if applicable)

Contact us by mail

Send your request and supporting documents to the address:

Centralized Network – Passport Protection, 6th floor Gatineau, QC  K1A 1L1 Canada

Contact us by fax

If you want to fax your documents to us, add the following note:

Attention: Passport Program

 1-819-953-5856

What to do if you find a passport or other travel document

If you find a travel document, including one you previously reported as lost or stolen, you should return the document to us.

You also need to send a completed declaration concerning a lost, stolen, inaccessible, damaged or found Canadian travel document [PPTC 203] (PDF, 120 KB) with the document.

Return a found travel document in Canada

You can return a found travel document with a letter that describes how, when and where you found it

• in person at a passport office (Service Canada Centre – Passport Services) or Service Canada Centre
• in person at your local Police Service or Royal Canadian Mounted Police station
• by registered mail or courier to Centralized Network – Passport Protection, 6th floor Gatineau, QC  K1A 1L1 Canada

Return a found travel document outside Canada

You can return a found travel document with a letter that describes how, when and where you found it to the nearest Government of Canada office abroad .

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Breaking news, travelers will need ‘permission,’ pay a fee to visit uk as part of new digitized system.

The British government has rolled out a new requirement for travelers hoping to visit the country.

An “Electronic Travel Authorization” (ETA) has been implemented that digitizes tourists’ requests to visit the country while paying a fee of about $13. 

“Everyone wishing to travel to the UK – except British and Irish citizens – will need permission to travel in advance of coming here,” says the United Kingdom government’s site.

The ETAs are linked to a traveler’s passport in an effort to smooth security checks and “prevent abuse” of the immigration system.

There were 38 million visits to the UK during 2023, an increase of 6.7 million visits compared with 2022, according to the UK Office for National Statistics. 

An online form will be made available asking for valid passport information, travel details, an email address and a credit or debit card, along with “suitability questions.”

The ETA applies to anyone visiting for up to six months for tourism, to see family and friends, for business or for short-term study.

“The worldwide expansion of the ETA demonstrates our commitment to enhance security through new technology and embedding a modern immigration system,” the minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, said in a press release.

“[Digitization] enables a smooth experience for the millions of people who pass through the border every year, including the visitors we warmly welcome to the UK who are predicted to contribute over £32 billion to our tourism economy this year,” added Malhotra.

The system will open up to all other nationalities, except Europeans, this November and will be required for entry beginning in April 2025.

The United Kingdom plans to fully digitize its borders by 2025.