Few things can upset a trip more than losing your passport or having it stolen. But it doesn’t have to ruin everything. It can be fixed. Just keep in mind you will have to replace it before returning to the U.S. So here are the steps you’ll need to take when find your passport is missing.
Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate
Collect the pieces you need before you go to the consulate
- A Passport Photo (one photo is required; get it prior to going to the embassy/consulate to speed the process of replacing your passport)
- Identification (driver’s license, expired passport etc.)
- Evidence of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, photocopy of your missing passport)
- Travel Itinerary (airline tickets)
- Police Report (if available)
- DS-11 Application for Passport (this may be completed at while applying for your replacement)
Don’t stress if you can’t bring all of the items above. The consular staff will do their best to assist you to replace your passport quickly.
Report the loss or theft of your passport
File a police report
Replacement Passport FAQ’s
(From the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs)
How Long is a Replacement Passport Valid?
Other complicating factors, such as multiple lost/stolen passports or borrowing money from the State Department to fund your trip home, may cause you to receive a limited passport. If you received a limited passport because of multiple lost/stolen passports or an outstanding loan, you will need to resolve those issues with the State Department before you can be issued a new passport.
Are Fees Charged to Replace Lost/Stolen Passports Abroad?
However, if:
- 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, the passport fee may be waived and a limited-validity passport will be issued. When the person applies for a full-validity passport upon their return to the United States, the regular passport fee will be charged for the replacement passport.
Can the U.S. Embassy Issue a Replacement Passport on a Weekend or Holiday?
Duty officers must focus primary attention on life or death emergencies. In most cases, except for serious emergencies, a replacement passport will not be issued until the next business day.
For more information on your passport, click on the link below:

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