What to Do if Your Passport Lost or Stolen?

What to Do if Your Passport Lost or Stolen?

A passport is one of the most important documents when traveling abroad. Losing your passport will cause you a lot of trouble. However, instead of panicking, you should stay calm and follow some of the instructions below to replace your lost passport.

1. Lost or Stolen Passport While Abroad

Unless you’re traveling to a country that requires you to carry your passport at all times, it’s best to keep this important document in the hotel safe. When going out, you should only bring a copy of your passport along with your driver’s license.

In case you lose your passport or have it stolen, please contact the embassy for specific instructions on declaration and re-issue process.

If your passport loss occurs on weekends or holidays, you need to contact the embassy or consulate via emergency phone numbers or email for timely help.

If you are unable to contact the embassy or consulate, you need to seek help from the local community or similar organizations for specific instructions on necessary procedures.

In an emergency case, you can try asking the airline to contact Customs and Border Protection to get your permission to travel without a passport.

2. Lost or Stolen Passport When Your Trip is Coming Soon

If you lose your passport just a few days before your trip, you should go to the local express passport service facility where you live to apply for a replacement.

Normally, the time it takes to re-do documents for people who want to get them quickly depends on the requirements of the person who lost their passport. For example: in Ho Chi Minh City, a passport returned within 4 working days will have a fee of 2.6 million VND; 3 days is 3.2 million VND; 2 days is 3.5 million VND, etc. Just a note, the price of express passport service does not include the state payment fee.

It’s Better Not to Lose Your Passport

Some courier companies said many of their customers lost their passports while moving. Therefore, when packing your belongings, keep your passport carefully.

In addition, to ensure your trip abroad goes smoothly, it is best to prepare carefully before departure:

• Prepare copies of important documents such as passports, airline tickets, and hotel booking information.
• Keep the originals and copies of these documents in 2 different places. Send a copy of the photo to your email or save in your phone.
• Bring at least one other form of identification, in addition to your passport. Even an old passport also serves to authenticate your personal information.
• Prepare a few 4×6 photos to facilitate emergency passport application.
• Look up the address and contact information of the Consular Department of the place you are about to visit.
• You should buy travel insurance in case your passport, luggage, and property are stolen.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does it mean if someone steals your passport?

If someone steals your passport, it means they have taken possession of a crucial travel document that proves your identity and citizenship. This can lead to serious consequences, including identity theft, fraudulent use, and travel disruptions.

2. Is passport theft common?

Passport theft occurs more frequently than you might think. Opportunistic thieves target tourists, crowded areas, and transportation hubs. That’s why visiting safe countries is always a good choice to explore the world. Anyways, always keep your passport secure and be vigilant.

3. How many times can you lose your passport?

There’s no strict limit on how many times you can lose your passport, but it’s essential to take preventive measures. Frequent loss or theft can raise suspicion and may affect your ability to travel smoothly.

4. What to do if a scammer has your passport details?

If a scammer has your passport details, report it immediately. Contact your country’s embassy or consulate, and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports to prevent identity theft.

5. Can I travel back if I lost my passport?

If you’ve lost your passport abroad, contact your embassy or consulate. They can issue an emergency travel document or help you obtain a replacement. Returning home without a valid passport can be challenging, but assistance is available. You can refer to the tips above in case your passport is lost or stolen.