Losing a passport can be stressful, especially when you are not sure what steps to take next. Reporting a stolen passport quickly is important for your protection, but many travelers are surprised to learn what happens if that passport later turns up.
Let’s explain how to report a stolen passport, what the report means, and what to do if the passport is later found in your possession.
When Should a Passport Be Reported as Stolen
A passport should be reported as stolen if you believe it was taken, lost due to theft, or may be in someone else’s possession. Even if you are unsure, reporting it helps protect you from identity misuse.
Common situations include:
- A stolen bag or wallet
- A passport missing during travel
- A passport taken from a vehicle or hotel room
Once reported, the passport is immediately canceled.
How to Report a Stolen Passport
To report a stolen passport, travelers typically need to submit a theft report to the U.S. Department of State. This can be done online or with a paper form.
You will usually need:
- Your passport details, if available
- Personal identification information
- A brief explanation of what happened
After reporting, the passport cannot be used for travel.
What Happens After a Passport Is Reported Stolen
Once a passport is reported stolen, it is permanently invalid. Even if it is later recovered, it cannot be used again.
This often surprises travelers, but canceled passports cannot be reactivated for security reasons.
What If Your Passport Was Reported Stolen, but You Find It
This situation happens more often than people expect. A passport may be reported stolen, only to be found later at home, in luggage, or returned by a hotel.
Unfortunately, even if the passport is physically in your possession, it is no longer valid once reported stolen.
At that point, you will need to apply for a replacement passport.
How to Replace a Passport That Was Reported Stolen
Replacing a stolen passport requires a new application, even if the old passport is found.
The process usually includes:
- Submitting a new passport application
- Providing identification and citizenship documents
- Explaining that the previous passport was reported stolen
Processing times vary, but delays are common without professional assistance.
How The Passport Office Can Help
The Passport Office helps travelers replace stolen passports quickly and correctly. Our team understands the required documentation and the common mistakes that cause delays.
We assist with:
- Emergency and expedited passport replacements
- Reviewing forms for accuracy
- Providing reliable passport photo services
- Guidance for travelers with urgent travel plans
We also offer walk-in and virtual appointment options depending on your needs.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Travelers sometimes wait after reporting a stolen passport, hoping to find it. Unfortunately, this can delay travel plans if a replacement is needed urgently.
Taking action early helps avoid last-minute stress and missed trips.
Final Thoughts
Reporting a stolen passport is an important step to protect yourself, but it also permanently cancels that passport. If it later turns up, it still cannot be used.
If your passport has been reported stolen and you need a replacement, The Passport Office can help guide you through the process and get you back on track as quickly as possible.