Immediate actions: File a police statement at the nearest station as soon as the incident is discovered; obtain a written report with a report number and the officer’s contact details. Call your country’s embassy or nearest consulate (most have a 24/7 emergency line) and email a scanned copy of the police report and any ID copies. Do this within 24 hours whenever possible to speed processing and help with any immigration or airline questions.
Documents to bring to the consulate: original national ID (if carried), photocopies of the travel document data page if available, birth certificate or citizenship certificate, two recent passport-style photos (common sizes: 2×2 inches / 51×51 mm or 35×45 mm – check the consulate’s specification), your flight itinerary, and the police report. Bring payment (cash and card) for consular fees and extra photocopying if needed.
What consular offices can issue: They can provide an emergency travel certificate for short-term return or allow reissuance of a full travel document. Emergency certificates are usually single-entry and valid just long enough to get home (typical validity: days to 30 days); processing can be same-day to 72 hours depending on local workload. Full reissuance often takes several weeks (commonly 4–8 weeks) and may require additional proof of identity and citizenship.
Fees and timings (typical ranges): Expect an emergency certificate fee roughly between $50–$200 and full reissue fees from $100–$250 depending on nationality and consular service. Bring an additional small amount for notarizations, photo services, or courier shipping. Confirm current amounts on the embassy website before visiting.
Aviation and visa consequences: Notify your airline before reaching the airport – some carriers require prior approval to accept an emergency certificate. Visas in the old travel document are usually void; check with the issuing state’s embassy for visa reissuance rules or whether you need a new visa to return. If transiting multiple countries, verify transit-entry rules for the emergency certificate.
Practical preparedness and follow-up: Keep encrypted digital copies of your identity pages and a scan of visas in cloud storage accessible from another device, and store paper photocopies separately from your ID. After receiving a consular document, register the incident with your embassy’s travel/consular portal so consular staff can update records and provide follow-up assistance for home-country procedures.
Missing travel document: immediate actions while overseas
Report to local police within 24 hours. Obtain an official written report in English or get a certified translation; request at least three stamped copies and a police contact name/phone.
Contact your nearest embassy or consulate right away. Use the emergency phone number on the embassy website; expect to book an appointment and bring the police report, two recent biometric-style photos, proof of citizenship (copy of the travel book, national ID, birth certificate or naturalization certificate), proof of travel (ticket or itinerary), and an alternate ID if available.
Document checklist to have ready. Police report, citizenship proof, passport-sized photos (typical size 2×2 in / 51×51 mm or 35×45 mm–verify host country spec), travel itinerary, consular application form (download beforehand), payment method (credit card, local cash or specific fee type as listed by consulate), and one printed photo ID copy for their file.
Typical consular options and timelines. Emergency travel certificate issued same day to 72 hours for single-return travel; standard full travel booklet issued from 2 up to 8 weeks depending on home-country processing and whether documents are verified. Emergency fees commonly range $50–$200; full replacement fees commonly range $100–$300. Confirm exact amounts and accepted payments on the embassy site.
Airline and visa checks before departure. Call your carrier to confirm they accept the emergency certificate and police report for check-in. Verify any transit or destination visa requirements and contact relevant consulates if a visa must be obtained urgently.
If theft is suspected. Report to both local police and your home country’s fraud or identity-theft unit; freeze or replace any compromised cards and monitor accounts for unauthorized activity.
Collection and travel with the document. Most embassies require in-person collection and signature; travel only with the emergency certificate, printed police report, and supporting ID copies. Keep originals in a secure, accessible place until you return home.
Preventive measures for the future. Store digital copies of travel pages and ID in a secure cloud and email them to a trusted contact; carry photocopies separately from originals; register with your embassy’s traveler registration service before travel; carry two extra passport-style photos.
Follow the embassy’s published instructions for forms, fees and appointment procedures specific to your nationality and location.
Locate Your Nearest Embassy or Consulate and Confirm Services
Call the nearest embassy or consulate within 24 hours and verify consular services, appointment rules, required documents and accepted payment methods.
What to confirm before visiting
Confirm whether the consular section issues emergency travel documents or temporary ID booklets, and ask for exact processing times (same-day, 1–3 business days, or longer). Request the official list of required documents by email so you have a stamped copy: typical items include national ID or birth certificate, a police report if the document was stolen or mislaid, a copy or image of the original travel document if available, two recent color photos (commonly 35×45 mm, plain light background), completed application forms, and proof of onward travel or itinerary. Ask about special rules for minors (parental consent, both parents present or notarized authorization).
Confirm accepted payment methods and approximate fees; many missions accept card payments, local currency cash, or bank transfer. Ask whether fees differ for emergency issuance versus full reissuance and request the exact amount in local currency. If fees are refundable in case of refusal, get that policy in writing.
How to contact and prepare
Use only official channels: the embassy/consulate phone number listed on the government website (.gov, ministry of foreign affairs) or the mission’s verified email address. Take a screenshot of the online appointment confirmation or an email reply. If the mission publishes an appointment portal, register and book the earliest slot; walk-ins are often refused. If public holidays apply, confirm alternate open dates. If you are registered with your country’s citizen-registration system (e.g., Smart Traveler Enrollment Program or local equivalent), update your status and include the registration number in communications.
| Item to confirm | What to ask | Typical examples |
|---|---|---|
| Service availability | Issue emergency travel document / temporary ID / notarial help? | Emergency travel document (same-day to 3 days); full travel document issuance (several weeks) |
| Documents required | Exact list and acceptable alternatives; digital copies accepted? | Birth certificate, national ID, police report, 2 photos (35×45 mm), application form |
| Fees and payment | Amount, currency, card accepted, receipt issuance | Range: USD 25–150 (varies); card or local-currency cash often accepted |
| Appointments | Booking portal link, walk-in policy, documentation to bring printed | Online booking required for most missions; bring printed confirmation |
| Processing time | Estimate for emergency vs full issuance, expedited options? | Emergency: same-day–3 days; full: up to several weeks |
If the mission cannot assist, request contact details for the nearest consular office that can, and obtain a written referral or email. Keep all correspondence and receipts with you when you attend the appointment.
Report the Loss to Local Police and Obtain a Written Police Report
Go to the nearest police station within 24 hours of discovering the missing travel document and file an official report; obtain a signed, stamped paper report and the incident reference number before leaving.
What to bring
Photocopy of the travel document (if available), secondary photo ID (driver’s licence or national ID), current travel itinerary (flight or ferry), local accommodation address and phone, two recent ID-size photos (specs required by your consulate), and any evidence of the event (photos, receipts, witness names). Provide printed copies: one for the station and one for your consular office.
What to request from police
Ensure the report records: full name exactly as on the travel document, nationality, date and exact time, precise location, issuing country and serial number of the document (if known), concise description of circumstances (e.g., misplaced or stolen), attending officer’s name and badge number, station contact details, official stamp, signature, and a clear incident reference number. Ask for at least two certified copies and an electronic scan or PDF sent to your email. If the report is issued only in the local language, request an official English summary or arrange a notarised translation.
If the station refuses to provide a formal report, obtain a stamped incident log entry or a signed written statement from the attending officer and keep any fee receipts. Immediately scan and email the document to your consulate/embassy, your home-country authorities and the airline; retain original certified copies with your remaining travel documents until you receive a new travel document from the consulate while overseas.
Collect Acceptable ID, Proof of Citizenship, and Travel-Document Photos
Bring two government-issued photo IDs (one primary, one secondary), one original proof of citizenship, four printed color travel-document photos, plus a digital photo file and two sets of photocopies of all documents.
Acceptable IDs and citizenship proofs
- Primary photo ID: national identity card, current driver’s licence, military ID. Expired primary IDs may be accepted only in limited cases–verify with the consular office.
- Secondary photo ID: student card, company ID, recent municipal ID, or expired travel document if available.
- Proof of citizenship (original required unless otherwise stated): long-form birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, certificate of citizenship, consular report of birth abroad, or national civil registry extract.
- Copies and authentication: supply two color photocopy sets (all pages showing name, photo, serial numbers). One set should be a certified copy or notarized if the embassy/consulate requests authentication or if you cannot present the original.
- Translations: any document not in the issuing-country language or English must be translated by a certified translator and accompanied by the translator’s signed statement and a copy of the original.
- Storage: keep one physical set for submission and one digital backup (scanned PDF, encrypted if stored in the cloud or on a mobile device).
Photo specifications and practical tips
- Number required: typically 2–4 printed copies; bring extras (6) to avoid delays.
- Size and face proportions:
- United States format: 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm); head height 1–1 3/8 inches (25–35 mm) from chin to crown.
- European common format: 35 × 45 mm; head height typically 32–36 mm.
- If your issuing country uses another standard, obtain exact dimensions from the consular website before printing.
- Image quality: color photo on matte or glossy photo paper, 300 dpi recommended, no visible pixels or compression artifacts.
- Background and lighting: plain white or off-white background, even lighting, no shadows across face or background.
- Facial appearance: neutral expression or natural smile, mouth closed or slightly open, eyes open and clearly visible, no sunglasses or tinted lenses.
- Glasses and headwear: avoid glasses; if prescription glasses cannot be removed, ensure no glare and eyes fully visible. Head coverings for religious reasons allowed but must not obscure facial features; be prepared to provide a signed statement if requested.
- Children and infants: take several shots–support hands out of frame where possible; eyes open preferred but many authorities accept photos with eyes closed for very young infants if unavoidable.
- Digital submission: common acceptable formats are JPEG or PNG; minimum 600 × 600 px, 300 dpi recommended. File-size limits vary–confirm limits on the consulate’s upload page.
- Where to get photos: professional photo studio, pharmacy chain with passport-photo service, or embassy/consulate-approved photographer. Smartphone apps are acceptable only if they produce files and prints matching the exact specs.
Checklist before leaving home: originals, two photocopy sets, four–six printed photos, one digital photo file, certified translations if needed, and encrypted backups of scanned documents.
Schedule a Consular Appointment and Complete Required Forms
Book an appointment on the nearest embassy or consulate citizen‑services portal as soon as you discover your missing travel document; complete and print Forms DS‑11 and DS‑64 (or DS‑82 if eligible) before your visit.
How to book
Use the mission’s official website “U.S. Embassy & Consulates” → U.S. Citizen Services → Appointments. Many missions require an online booking account; choose a “Consular Report / Emergency Travel Document” or “Passport” category that matches your situation. Check the mission page for accepted payment methods and arrival window (usually arrive 15–30 minutes before your slot).
Which forms and what to prepare
Bring printed, signed copies where required and originals when requested: DS‑11 (application for a travel document issued in person), DS‑64 (statement regarding a lost/stolen travel document), proof of citizenship (original birth certificate or previous travel document if available), a government photo ID or certified copy, one recent color photo meeting 2×2 inch (51×51 mm) specifications, and any police report if filed. Do not sign DS‑11 until instructed by the consular officer unless the form instructions state otherwise.
Fees & payment: Consult the mission page for local fee amount and acceptable payment (credit card, local currency, money order). Fees for emergency travel documents or in‑person issuance differ from routine domestic fees.
At the appointment: Expect identity verification, form review, an oath or signature before the officer, and collection of biometric data in some missions. Ask for a receipt and estimated processing timeframe; ask whether a temporary single‑use travel document will be issued or a full‑validity document will follow by mail.
Official U.S. Department of State guidance and form downloads: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/consular/replace-passport/lost-stolen.html (forms DS‑11 and DS‑64 available via the links on that site).
Pay Consular Fees and Apply for an Emergency Travel Document or Temporary Travel Booklet
Contact the nearest embassy or consulate and confirm the exact consular charge, accepted payment methods and required appointment before arriving to submit your application for an emergency travel document.
Payment methods and typical amounts
Fee range: expect local mission charges between roughly $50 and $250 in most major missions; some countries charge under $40 for a short-term travel paper, others up to $300 for expedited service. Use the embassy’s published fee table for the final figure. Accepted payments: major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard), cash in local currency, bank transfer or certified bank draft; a few missions accept mobile payments. Bring exact cash if card terminals may be down. Obtain and keep an official receipt with transaction ID.
Tip: if paying by card, bring the same cardholder ID the mission can verify; if paying by bank transfer, use the reference code the consulate provides and forward transfer confirmation with your application.
Application requirements, processing time and document specifics
Bring a completed application form from the embassy website, two recent colour photos (common spec: 2×2 inches / 51×51 mm but check the mission’s exact dimensions), a photocopy of your national ID or birth record, a copy of any expired travel booklet if available, a police report or local statement if required by the mission, and proof of your onward or return ticket. Many missions will refuse an application without a supporting itinerary.
Processing windows: same-day issuance is possible for true emergencies; typical timeframe is 24–72 hours for an emergency travel document. Validity: expect single‑trip or short-term validity (usually from a few days up to 12 months) intended only to enable return to your country of citizenship or a specified next destination. Verify whether the document is machine-readable and accepted by your airline; if unsure, get written confirmation from both the airline and the consulate.
On collection, inspect the travel document immediately: confirm full name spelling, date of birth, nationality code and validity dates. Keep the consular receipt and a scanned copy of the document on your phone and cloud storage. If you encounter entry problems at check-in or immigration, present the consular contact details and receipt to airline/immigration officers and request that the embassy provide any necessary verification.
Check Visa, Transit, and Re-entry Rules Before Booking Return Travel
Verify visa status and transit permissions for every country on your route, and only buy non‑refundable tickets after confirmation.
Confirm entry visa requirements for destination and all transit points: type of visa, single vs multiple entry, and validity dates. Check whether a transit visa is required for airside transfers, landside connections or overnight layovers. Use official embassy or consulate pages and IATA Timatic as primary sources.
Ensure your travel document meets destination and transit rules: aim for at least six months’ validity beyond your planned return date when possible; many Schengen states require a minimum of three months beyond departure from their territory. Verify the required number of unused visa pages (commonly two blank pages). Match the document name exactly with the airline reservation.
For transit permissions watch for: Transit Without Visa (TWOV) exemptions, time limits (e.g., 24/72/144‑hour schemes), and restrictions on changing terminals or passing immigration. Airlines can refuse boarding for missing transit authorization even if immigration rules would permit entry–contact the carrier before booking.
Confirm re‑entry conditions for your country of citizenship: some states allow return on emergency travel documents or temporary IDs only with prior approval; others require a valid national ID or biometric document. If using an emergency document, verify its validity period and whether a visa is needed to transit third countries.
When time is tight, prefer refundable or changeable fares and add flexible ticket options. Buy travel insurance that covers travel interruptions caused by document or visa issues. Keep digital and printed copies of visa approvals, emergency documents, and embassy contact details.
Action list: check embassy/consulate notices for each country, run itinerary through IATA Timatic, call the airline with document details, and confirm re‑entry rules with your home mission before finalizing return travel reservations.
Questions and Answers:
What should I do right away after realizing my passport is lost while traveling abroad?
Look for the document where you last had it (hotel, taxi, tour operator) and check with local lost-and-found. If you can’t find it, file a lost-property report with local police and obtain a copy of that report — many consulates ask for it. Contact your country’s nearest embassy or consulate as soon as possible to report the loss and get instructions. Cancel or freeze any lost credit or debit cards and secure other ID and travel papers. Keep copies or photos of other identification and your travel itinerary, and note any passport number you can find in old documents or emails.
How do I obtain an emergency travel document or temporary passport from my embassy or consulate?
Check the embassy or consulate website for emergency contact information and whether you must make an appointment. You will typically need to appear in person and present proof of identity and citizenship (for example, a national ID, birth certificate, or a photocopy of the lost passport if you have one), the police report, and travel details such as your ticket. Many missions require recent passport‑style photos and a consular fee. Consular staff will confirm your identity and may issue either an emergency travel document that allows you to return home or a temporary passport with limited validity. Processing times and the exact type of document vary by country and by the circumstances, so follow the specific guidance given by your mission.
What documents and evidence should I prepare before going to the consulate to replace my passport?
Bring the police report, any available government ID (national ID card, driver’s license), proof of citizenship (birth certificate, national registry extract, or a photocopy of your passport), proof of travel plans (flight itinerary or ticket), and passport-style photos that meet your country’s specifications. If you are traveling with companions or are a minor, bring documents that establish guardianship or parental consent. If you have registered with your embassy before traveling, bring that registration confirmation or any previous consular correspondence. Also bring enough cash or a card to pay consular fees and any courier charges for document delivery.
How long does the replacement process usually take, what will it cost, and are there restrictions on emergency documents?
Timeframes differ by country and mission. An emergency travel document can often be issued the same day or within 24–48 hours if your identity is verified and required documents are complete. A full replacement passport usually takes longer because some missions must send applications to the home country for final processing; that can take days to several weeks. Fees vary widely; expect a consular charge plus any extra fees for expedited handling or return shipping. Emergency travel documents are commonly valid for a single trip back to your home country or for a short period; some countries and airlines may not accept them for entry or transit, and visas in your lost passport may not be transferable. Check with the embassy and your airline about acceptance rules before travel, and replace the temporary document with a standard passport once you are home.