How To Deal With A Lost Or Stolen Passport

How To Deal With A Lost Or Stolen Passport

• Have you ever thought or worried about an instance where your passport may be lost or stolen while on your vacation? This in some cases is an unfortunate event and with a little bit of knowledge can either be A) preventable or B) not something that will ruin your trip… maybe just a little speed bump. And it’s happened to one of our agents, Jane while traveling in Portugal recently. Luckily, she was prepared for the worst and these tips should help you have a piece of mind while traveling.

What to do if your passport is lost or stolen:

1. Don’t panic. Take action and just know it IS replaceable. Don’t let it ruin your time.
2. Go to the nearest Tourist Police Station and file a report – There are special police stations that deal with tourist issues. And if you’re in a location known for pickpockets or crime, chances are, you are not the first that day. And they know what they’re doing. The Lisbon Tourist Police were extremely helpful and efficient and made everything easy.
3. Get to the US Embassy nearest you ASAP. The hours are usually normal office hours (Mon. – Fri. 8:00a-5:00p) and they are closed on US National Holidays. Bring a form of ID, the police report, a picture of yourself (this can often be done there for a small fee), and $145USD for your new passport. After some questions and forms they will issue you a temporary emergency passport to get home and the proper forms to receive a free passport when you get back to send by mail.
4. Relax & grab a drink! That was easier than you thought!When you get home fill out your form and mail it including your temporary passport and proof of citizenship ASAP in order to receive your new passport within the time limit free of charge. You usually have a few months, but better safe than sorry! This also ensures you can get on your next trip faster!Tips:
   • Bring a photocopy of your passport with you and keep it in your luggage.
   • Keep credit and debit cards separate, and always keep some cash hidden back in your hotel room.
   • If carrying a purse keep it zipped and on the front of your person at all times.
   • Email copies of your passport to yourself AND to immediate family members.

Photos – Instagram: @jlinseatravels