I lost my passport abroad. What do I do?
Sources checked . Final review by Sean Williams pending.
Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, report the passport lost or stolen with Form DS-64, and apply for a replacement in person with Form DS-11. If you need to travel urgently, ask the embassy about a limited-validity emergency passport. A police report and a copy of your old passport help.
| Report the loss | Form DS-64 (statement regarding a lost or stolen passport) |
|---|---|
| Apply for a replacement | Form DS-11, in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate |
| Urgent travel | Embassy may issue a limited-validity emergency passport |
| Bring if you can | Photo ID, proof of citizenship, passport photo, travel itinerary, police report |
| After reporting | The lost passport is cancelled and cannot be used even if found |
What should I do first if my passport is lost or stolen abroad?
- Search your bags, hotel safe and the last places you used it.
- If it was stolen, report it to local police and get a copy of the report.
- Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and make an appointment.
- Complete Form DS-64 to report the loss and Form DS-11 to apply for a new passport.
- Bring a passport photo, any ID you have, proof of citizenship if you have it, and your travel itinerary.
- Ask about an emergency passport if you must travel soon.
- Tell your airline, cruise line and advisor about any change to your plans.
Can I get an emergency passport?
The embassy or consulate may issue a limited-validity emergency passport if you need to travel urgently. It lets you get home or continue your trip, and you replace it with a full passport later.
Ask for an emergency passport if you fly home within days. Apply for a full replacement if you are staying abroad long enough to wait for it.
What documents help the embassy?
A photocopy or photo of your passport's data page, a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship, a photo ID such as a driver's license, and your travel plans. Keep copies separate from your passport before every trip.
How can I prepare before the next trip?
Enroll in STEP, save a photo of your passport's data page somewhere secure, and keep the address of the nearest U.S. embassy for each country you visit. See our passport guide.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I fly home without a passport?
- Generally you need a passport to board an international flight to the United States. The embassy can issue an emergency passport for urgent travel.
- How long does it take to replace a passport abroad?
- It depends on the embassy and your situation. Contact the embassy or consulate as soon as possible and tell them your travel date.
- Do I need a police report?
- It is helpful and sometimes requested, especially for a stolen passport. Some countries also require one for an exit permit.
- What if I find my passport after reporting it lost?
- Once reported, it is cancelled and no longer valid for travel. Do not try to use it.
- What if I lose my passport on a cruise stop?
- Tell the ship's guest services immediately. The cruise line and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate will advise you on reboarding and returning home.
Sources
Founder, Egretline Travel ยท Tampa, Florida
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