Losing your passport while abroad - what to do

Losing your passport is pretty much anyone's nightmare scenario while traveling internationally. I lived it back in 2018 when my passport was stolen on the London tube. Before you get to this point (which I hope you never do), take a photo of your passport (store on your phone + in the cloud) and keep a photocopy on hand during your travels. It will help with getting a replacement since you can use it to help prove your citizenship status.

This is written from my experience as a US citizen, but I imagine the steps are similar for other countries. 

Here's what to do if you lose your passport in another country. 

1. Check your pockets

2. File a police report

3. Locate your nearest consulate/embassy & determine necessary items for a replacement

3. Get a new passport photo taken

4. Visit the consulate/embassy for a replacement passport

Check your pockets!

I know it sounds dumb, but if there's any chance you've simply misplaced your passport, I'd much rather you find it there before having to go through the steps of obtaining a replacement.

Look in your coat pockets, purse or backpack, luggage, pants - all clothing items from your trip. If your passport is for sure gone, proceed to the next step. 

File a police report

I sincerely hope you didn't have plans for the evening, because you should take the time to file a police report at a local station. 

When you apply for your replacement passport in the US, they will ask for this and the process is a lot smoother if you can provide the police report information. It's not required, but it will confirm your story or circumstances on how you lost your passport.

Take note of requirements for a replacement passport + locate your nearest consulate or embassy

With a police report in hand, it's time to research what you'll need to provide to obtain a replacement passport. If you're a US citizen, the State Department website is a good place to start, and it lists: 

• Passport photo (you'll likely need to get a new one wherever you're at)
• Identification (e.g. Driver's license) 
• Evidence of US Citizenship (photo copy of passport or birth certificate) 
• Travel itinerary (proof of your upcoming flights or train rides)
• DS-11 Application for Passport
• DS-64 Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport

While you're on the web, I'd also locate the nearest consulate or embassy and their hours of operation. Most passport replacements require an appointment, so make one now. Take note, most passport replacement services are not open on the weekends or holidays. 

Take a new passport photo

Time to get photo-ready. I know it's the last thing you're in the mood for, but you'll need a new photo for your replacement passport. To get my replacement, I just Google-searched for "passport photos near me" to ensure someone who knew the requirements was taking the picture, and to get it printed same-day. 

I let the employee know that I needed a passport photo for a United States Passport (and had the photo requirements on my phone just in case). The biggest thing to remember abroad is that the photo size must be 2x2 inches (51x51 mm). See more photo requirements here.

Visit the embassy or consulate 

With your passport photo and other required documentation in hand, head to your country's embassy to get your replacement passport. Be sure to go during your appointment if they require one.

If your upcoming travel date falls before any appointment availability, you may be able to make an emergency appointment for a limited validity passport (which can be used to get home to the US only). Travel usually must fall within the next 5 days, and you'll need your proof of overseas travel. Contact the embassy directly to get the specific location's requirements and plead your case for an emergency appointment. 

Stay calm and stay cool. I know it's a scary and stressful time to lose your passport in an unfamiliar place. I'm lucky I had my family and boyfriend (at the time) present to help me make a plan. You have resources and help abroad, and will find a solution too. Prevention is the best strategy, and since this trip I use an anti-theft bag to deter pickpockets.