Lost Your Passport Overseas? A Step-by-Step Guide for U.S. Citizens

Last updated 3 months ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.

Losing your passport while traveling abroad can feel like a nightmare. It’s your key identification and permission to travel internationally. However, this situation, while stressful, is manageable.

The U.S. Department of State, through its network of embassies and consulates around the world, has established procedures specifically designed to assist U.S. citizens in this exact predicament.

Consular officers are prepared to help you navigate the process of replacing your lost or stolen passport so you can continue your trip or return home safely.

This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions based on official U.S. government information to help you report the loss and apply for a replacement passport while you are overseas.

First Steps: What to Do Immediately

Search Thoroughly

Before reporting your passport lost or stolen, take a moment to conduct a thorough search. Retrace your steps, check your hotel room carefully, look through all pockets, bags, and luggage.

It’s possible the passport was simply misplaced rather than definitively lost or stolen. Confirming it’s truly gone is the first step before initiating the replacement process.

Consider Filing a Local Police Report

If you determine your passport is indeed lost or, especially, if you suspect it was stolen, consider filing a report with the local police in the country where you are located.

While the U.S. Department of State clarifies that a police report is not strictly mandatory to replace your passport at an embassy or consulate, particularly if obtaining one would cause significant travel delays, it can still be beneficial.

Filing a report creates an official record of the incident, detailing the circumstances of the loss or theft. This documentation can be helpful later, for instance, if you need to file an insurance claim or if other valuables were taken along with the passport.

Having this official record helps confirm the situation when you apply for your replacement passport. The decision by the State Department to make the police report optional reflects a practical approach, prioritizing the urgent need for travel documents over potentially time-consuming local procedures, especially when a traveler has imminent departure plans.

If you do file a report, be sure to obtain a copy for your own records and to potentially show the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Report Your Passport Lost or Stolen to the State Department IMMEDIATELY

This is the most critical immediate action. As soon as you are certain your valid U.S. passport is lost or stolen, you must report it to the U.S. Department of State.

The primary reason for this urgency is to protect yourself from identity theft. Once you report your passport lost or stolen, the State Department immediately invalidates it electronically.

This means the passport can no longer be used for international travel by anyone, including you, even if you happen to find it later. This immediate cancellation is a vital security measure preventing misuse of your identity and compromised travel documents but also necessitates proceeding with the replacement process even if the original passport resurfaces.

There are specific ways to report your passport lost or stolen while you are overseas:

• Online: The quickest method is often using the State Department’s online system. You can submit Form DS-64, “Statement Regarding a Valid Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport Book and/or Card,” electronically via the online portal. The State Department’s Form Filler tool can also help you complete both the DS-64 (for reporting) and the DS-11 (for replacement) if you plan to apply immediately.
• In Person: You can report the loss or theft directly at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. This is typically done at the same time you apply for your replacement passport by submitting the completed Form DS-64 along with Form DS-11.

(Please note: Reporting by phone by calling 1-877-487-2778 is only an option for individuals currently within the United States or Canada. Family or friends in the U.S. can call on behalf of a loved one overseas to get assistance connecting with the embassy).

Form DS-64 is the official document for reporting the loss/theft. You can find information and access the form or online tool via the State Department website or download a PDF version.

Crucially, remember that simply reporting your passport lost or stolen does not initiate the replacement process. You must take the separate step of applying for a new passport using Form DS-11.

Also, do not report passports that have already expired; expired passports are invalid for travel anyway.

Contacting the Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate: Your Lifeline Abroad

Why the Embassy/Consulate is Key

When facing an emergency like a lost or stolen passport overseas, the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate is your primary point of contact and support. Their Consular Section is staffed with officers whose duties include assisting U.S. citizens in distress. They are equipped to guide you through the passport replacement process.

Finding Embassy/Consulate Locations and Contact Information

To locate the U.S. embassy or consulate nearest to you, use the official U.S. Department of State directory available at usembassy.gov. This website provides a comprehensive, searchable list of all U.S. diplomatic missions worldwide.

Alternatively, you can find contact details and location information through the State Department’s “Country Information” pages. These pages offer a wealth of country-specific details, including embassy/consulate contact information.

It’s helpful to understand the different types of U.S. diplomatic posts:

• An Embassy is the main diplomatic mission, usually located in the capital city.
• Consulates are branch offices, often found in major cities or regions with significant numbers of U.S. visitors or residents.
• Consular Agencies are smaller offices, often run by individuals providing limited services in areas far from the nearest embassy or consulate.

For passport replacement, you will typically need to visit an Embassy or Consulate.

How to Contact Them (Especially in Emergencies)

For passport replacement, you should contact the Consular Section of the embassy or consulate, ideally during their regular business hours. Check their specific website (found via usembassy.gov) for hours and appointment procedures.

If you or a family member needs immediate assistance or help connecting with the embassy/consulate, you can contact the Office of Overseas Citizens Services, which operates 24/7:

• From the U.S. & Canada: Call 1-888-407-4747
• From Overseas: Call +1 202-501-4444

While U.S. embassies and consulates have after-hours duty officers available to assist with genuine life-or-death emergencies involving U.S. citizens, replacing a lost or stolen passport generally occurs during business hours.

These duty officers can provide immediate safety assistance, but the actual issuance of a replacement passport usually happens on the next business day, unless the situation is exceptionally dire. This distinction highlights the logistical requirements for passport verification and production, which typically necessitate specific systems and personnel available during standard operating hours.

Applying for a Replacement Passport Overseas

The Process: In-Person Application Required

Unlike routine passport renewals within the U.S., replacing a lost or stolen passport while abroad must be done in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate. You cannot mail in your application.

It is highly recommended to check the specific embassy or consulate’s website for their procedures regarding appointments. Many require appointments for non-emergency services, including passport applications. Scheduling one in advance can save you significant waiting time.

When you contact or visit the embassy/consulate, immediately inform the consular staff if you have urgent travel plans, such as an imminent flight. They will make every effort to assist you as quickly as possible.

Required Forms: DS-11 and DS-64

To apply for an immediate replacement passport after reporting it lost or stolen overseas, you will need to complete and submit both of the following forms in person:

• Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport. This is the standard application used when applying for the first time, for a child under 16, or when replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged passport.
  • You can fill out the form online using the Form Filler tool or download a PDF version from the State Department’s forms page.
  • Important: Fill out the form completely and accurately before your appointment, but do not sign it. You must sign the form in the presence of the consular officer.
• Form DS-64: Statement Regarding a Valid Lost or Stolen U.S. Passport Book and/or Card. As mentioned earlier, this form officially documents the loss or theft of your passport.
  • This form can also be completed using the online Form Filler tool, downloaded from the forms page, or directly at this link.

Using the online Form Filler tool is often recommended as it can help reduce errors and may allow you to generate both completed forms simultaneously if you indicate you want to replace the passport immediately. Remember to print the forms single-sided.

Gathering Your Documents

Bringing as much supporting documentation as possible to your embassy or consulate appointment will significantly help expedite the replacement process. Even if you don’t have everything, consular staff will still work to assist you. Aim to bring the following:

What If You’re Missing Documents?

Don’t despair if you cannot produce all the items listed above. Consular officers understand that documents can be lost or inaccessible during travel emergencies. They will do their best to help you verify your identity and U.S. citizenship using available resources.

This might involve checking State Department databases or potentially contacting individuals you list as references in the United States. The ability to assist citizens even without ideal documentation underscores the consular mission, though it may mean the process takes longer.

If you cannot submit primary proof of citizenship and had a previous passport, the State Department may need to perform a “file search” to verify your records, which involves an additional fee of $150.

Passport Photo Requirements

Submitting a correct passport photo is crucial to avoid delays. Getting the photo taken before your embassy appointment is recommended. While photo services abroad may not be familiar with U.S. specifications, providing them with these requirements can help.

For complete details and visual examples, visit the official U.S. Passport Photos page.

Understanding Fees and Processing Times

Passport Application Fees

Generally, the cost to replace a lost or stolen passport overseas is the same as applying for a new passport book or card. Since you are required to use Form DS-11 for this type of replacement, the standard application fees apply. As of early 2025, these fees are:

• Passport Book (Adult, age 16+): $130
• Passport Card (Adult, age 16+): $30
• Passport Book (Minor, under 16): $100
• Passport Card (Minor, under 16): $15

These fees are paid directly to the U.S. Department of State. For the most current fee information, always consult the official Passport Fees page.

The Execution (Acceptance) Fee

In addition to the application fee, there is typically a separate $35 Execution Fee required for applications submitted in person using Form DS-11. This fee is paid directly to the facility accepting the application – in this case, the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Since replacing a lost/stolen passport overseas requires an in-person DS-11 application at an embassy or consulate, this $35 fee should be expected. The official fee chart explicitly pairs this fee with all DS-11 applications processed at acceptance facilities, which includes embassies and consulates abroad.

Potential Fee Waivers

In very specific circumstances, the passport fee might be waived. If you are the victim of a serious crime or a major disaster overseas and cannot afford the fee, you may be eligible for a free limited-validity emergency passport.

However, this waiver typically applies only to the emergency passport itself; if you later want a full-validity passport, the standard fees usually apply for that replacement.

(Note: The Disaster Recovery Reform Act provides fee waivers for U.S. residents affected by specific declared major disasters, but this primarily applies to domestic situations.)

Payment Methods

Accepted forms of payment can vary significantly between U.S. embassies and consulates. Some may accept U.S. dollars, local currency, or credit cards, while others may have more limited options.

It is essential to check the specific embassy or consulate’s website beforehand or contact them directly to confirm acceptable payment methods and amounts.

Processing Times

Processing times for replacement passports issued overseas can vary depending on the location, the complexity of your case (e.g., missing documents), and the current workload.

• Emergency Passports: If you have urgent travel needs, consular staff will prioritize your application. Limited-validity emergency passports can often be issued very quickly, sometimes even the next business day, especially if you have proof of imminent travel. Remember, issuance on weekends or holidays is generally not possible except in dire emergencies.
• Full-Validity Passports: If you apply for a standard, full-validity passport overseas, the processing time will be longer. While specific timelines aren’t given for overseas processing, it could take several weeks, similar to routine processing within the U.S. Confirm the estimated timeframe with the consular staff when you apply.

Emergency vs. Full-Validity Replacement Passports

When you apply for a replacement passport overseas, the consular officer will determine whether to issue an emergency, limited-validity passport or a full-validity passport based on your circumstances, particularly your travel plans.

Emergency Limited-Validity Passports (LVP)

These passports are issued when a U.S. citizen has urgent travel needs (like returning directly to the U.S. or possibly to their residence abroad) and there isn’t enough time to issue a standard, full-validity passport before their departure.

• Validity: LVPs typically have a much shorter validity period than regular passports, often valid for up to one year, but sometimes less depending on the situation.
• Limitations: The primary purpose of an LVP is to facilitate immediate, necessary travel. Some countries may not recognize or accept LVPs for entry or transit, so it’s crucial to verify the requirements of any country you plan to enter or pass through using an LVP. They may also lack some security features of full-validity passports.
• Issuance Criteria: The main reason for issuance is imminent travel. Consular officers may also issue an LVP if an applicant has a history of losing multiple passports or if their return travel was funded by a loan from the U.S. government.

Full-Validity Replacement Passports

If your travel plans allow for a longer processing time, the embassy or consulate may issue a standard, full-validity replacement passport. These are identical to passports issued in the United States, valid for 10 years for adults (age 16 and over) and 5 years for minors (under 16). Processing these takes considerably longer than issuing an LVP.

Replacing Your Emergency Passport Back Home

If you receive an LVP overseas due to a lost or stolen passport, you generally need to replace it with a full-validity passport once you return to the United States. The process for doing so depends on how long ago the LVP was issued:

If the LVP was issued LESS than one year ago:

You typically use Form DS-5504, “Application for a U.S. Passport – Name Change, Data Correction, and Limited Passport Book Replacement.”

Submit this form by mail along with:

• Your limited-validity passport (LVP).
• One new passport photo meeting requirements.
• Any supporting documents that were originally required but perhaps not fully verified abroad (e.g., original proof of citizenship).

There is usually no additional application fee for this replacement, unless you request expedited service ($60 extra). This suggests the fee paid overseas for the LVP covers the cost of the subsequent full-validity passport if replaced promptly.

Important: Carefully read the letter that came with your LVP. It will provide specific instructions and confirm whether DS-5504 is appropriate, or if you need to use DS-11 in some cases.

If the LVP was issued MORE than one year ago:

You must apply as if it were a new application or a standard renewal.

Use Form DS-11 (and apply in person at a passport acceptance facility or agency) OR Form DS-82 (apply by mail or online if you meet renewal eligibility requirements).

Submit the application form along with:

• Your limited-validity passport (LVP).
• One new passport photo.
• All applicable passport fees (application fee and execution fee if using DS-11). Waiting longer than a year essentially resets the process, requiring full payment again.

For detailed information on replacing limited-validity passports, visit: Limited Validity Passports.

Before You Go: Preventing Passport Problems

While knowing how to replace a lost passport is essential, taking preventative measures can save you considerable stress and hassle.

Safeguarding Your Passport While Traveling

• Secure Storage: When not needed for travel or official checks, keep your passport locked up. Use the safe in your hotel room or cruise ship cabin. For added security, consider a small, portable lockbox you bring with you.
• Secure Carrying: If you must carry your passport, keep it concealed and secure. Options include a money belt worn under clothing, a hidden neck pouch, a secure zippered internal pocket in a bag worn cross-body, or a front pants pocket. Avoid carrying it loosely in a backpack pocket or, especially, a back pants pocket, which are prime targets for pickpockets.
• Situational Awareness: Be particularly vigilant in crowded places like tourist sites, markets, and public transportation hubs, where pickpockets often operate. Don’t flash your passport unnecessarily.
• Damage Protection: Protect your passport from physical damage. Use a passport cover and keep it away from liquids, excessive heat, and humidity, which can damage the pages or electronic chip. Never leave it in the seat-back pocket on an airplane.
• Limit Handling: Only carry your passport when absolutely necessary, such as when crossing borders, checking into hotels, or when required by local law for identification.

Making Copies and Recording Details

Before you leave home, make several copies of your passport’s identification page (the page with your photo and information).

• Storage: Keep physical copies separate from your actual passport (e.g., one in your carry-on, one in your checked luggage). Store digital copies securely (e.g., encrypted file in cloud storage accessible only to you, on a secure personal device). Leave a copy with a trusted friend or family member back home.
• Purpose: These copies are invaluable if your passport is lost or stolen. They provide your exact passport number, issue date, and expiration date, which are needed for Form DS-64 and Form DS-11. They can also serve as preliminary evidence of your identity and citizenship for consular staff while they verify your information.
• Limitation: Remember, a copy or just the passport number cannot be used for travel; you need the physical replacement passport.

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

STEP is a free service offered by the U.S. Department of State that allows U.S. citizens traveling or residing abroad to register their trip details with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

• Benefits: By enrolling, you will receive important safety and security information about your destination country directly from the embassy. It also helps the embassy or consulate contact you in case of an emergency, such as a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency back home.
• Enrollment: You can enroll online before your trip at step.state.gov.

Check Passport Validity

Before any international trip, ensure your passport’s expiration date is well beyond your planned return. Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months after your intended departure date from that country.

Failing to meet this requirement could result in being denied boarding or entry, regardless of whether your passport is lost or stolen.

Our articles make government information more accessible. Please consult a qualified professional for financial, legal, or health advice specific to your circumstances.