What should I do if my passport is lost or stolen?

Discovering that your passport is lost or stolen can be a distressing experience, especially if you are about to travel or are currently abroad. A passport is not just a travel document; it's also a vital piece of identification that proves your citizenship. If you find yourself in this predicament, it's crucial to act promptly and follow the correct procedures to mitigate potential risks and replace your passport as soon as possible. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Report the Loss or Theft Immediately

Domestically:If you're in the United States when your passport goes missing, you need to report it to the U.S. Department of State as soon as possible. This can be done in two ways:

• Online: Visit the official Department of State website and use the online form to report a lost or stolen passport.

• By Phone: Call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 and report the loss/theft.

Internationally:If you're outside the United States, report the loss or theft to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. They can also guide you through the process of obtaining a temporary passport to continue your travels or return home.

Step 2: Complete the Required Forms

After reporting your passport as lost or stolen, you will need to complete Form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport). This form can be submitted online if you are reporting the passport lost or stolen for the first time. If applying for a new passport, you'll also need to fill out Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport) and submit it in person at a passport acceptance facility or a U.S. Embassy or Consulate if you are abroad.

Step 3: Apply for a Replacement Passport

To apply for a replacement passport, you will need to:

• Provide a completed Form DS-11.

• Submit Form DS-64 if you haven't already reported your passport lost or stolen online.

• Present proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate).

• Show a government-issued photo ID (a driver’s license, for example).

• Pay the applicable fees for a replacement passport.

• Provide one passport photo that meets the official requirements.

Note: If you are under 16, special requirements apply, including parental consent.

Step 4: Take Preventative Measures Against Identity Theft

A lost or stolen passport can increase the risk of identity theft. Monitor your financial accounts for unusual activity and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports. Informing the relevant authorities not only helps in protecting your identity but also ensures that the lost or stolen passport is flagged and cannot be used for illicit activities.