Lost Your Passport? Don’t Panic—Here’s Exactly What to Do
Losing your passport (or having it stolen) can be stressful, especially if you’re abroad. Follow these urgent steps to secure your identity and get a replacement fast.
Step 1: Report It Immediately
If You’re in the U.S.
File a report online:
U.S. Department of State’s Lost/Stolen Passport Form.
Call the National Passport Center: 1-877-487-2778 (Mon-Fri, 8 AM–10 PM ET).
If You’re Overseas
Contact the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate:
Find locations: USEmbassy.gov.
File a police report (if stolen)—some countries require it for replacement.
Why report quickly?
Prevents identity theft.
Blocks someone from using it fraudulently.
Step 2: Get a Replacement Passport
For U.S. Citizens
Standard Replacement (4–6 Weeks)
Form DS-11 (in-person at passport office/post office).
Documents needed:
Proof of citizenship (birth certificate, photocopy of lost passport).
Government-issued ID (driver’s license).
Passport photo (2×2 inches, white background).
Fee: ~
130
–
130–165.
Emergency Replacement (3–5 Days)
Expedited service (+$60) + overnight shipping.
Life-or-death emergency? Call the Passport Agency (proof required).
If You’re Abroad
Visit the U.S. embassy/consulate for an emergency passport (limited validity).
Fees vary by country.
Step 3: If You Have Upcoming Travel
Booked flights? Contact airlines—some allow rescheduling with a police report.
Need to travel ASAP? Request an emergency passport (valid for 1 year).
Step 4: Protect Yourself from Identity Theft
Monitor credit reports (free at AnnualCreditReport.com).
Set fraud alerts with Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion.
Mexico/Canada/Caribbean).
Final Thought
A lost passport is fixable! Acting fast minimizes risks and delays.
Need help with embassy contacts or forms? Ask below—I’ll guide you!