Discovering that your passport has been stolen right before a trip can be stressful. If you are dealing with a stolen passport before travel, you’ll need to act quickly.
A stolen passport cannot simply be used as normal once you report it. You will need to follow the appropriate replacement process before traveling internationally.
Report Your Stolen Passport
First, report your passport as lost or stolen to the U.S. Department of State.
Once you report a passport stolen, it is canceled and can no longer be used for international travel.
This is important even if you think you might find the passport later.
Do Not Travel With a Reported Passport
If you report your passport stolen and later find it, do not attempt to use it for international travel.
A reported passport is no longer valid.
Instead, follow the instructions for obtaining a replacement passport.
Gather Your Documents
When applying for a replacement, you may need documents such as:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
- Government-issued identification
- Passport photo
- Information about the stolen passport
- Completed passport application
- Proof of upcoming travel, when applicable
The exact requirements depend on your circumstances.
What If Your Trip Is Coming Up Soon?
If you have international travel approaching, tell the passport agency or passport service handling your application.
Urgent passport services may be available for travelers who meet the applicable requirements.
Your travel date can affect which processing options are available.
What If Your Passport Is Stolen While Traveling?
If your passport is stolen while you are outside the United States, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
They can explain the steps to get a replacement passport or other travel documentation.
You should also consider filing a police report if your passport was stolen.
Keep Copies of Your Documents
Before traveling internationally, consider keeping copies of important travel documents in a secure location.
You may want copies of:
- Passport identification page
- Driver’s license
- Travel itinerary
- Visa documents
- Emergency contact information
Having copies can make replacing documents easier if something goes wrong during your trip.
Can The Passport Office Help With a Stolen Passport?
Yes. The Passport Office assists travelers who need to replace a stolen passport.
Our team can help you understand the application requirements and available expedited passport options based on your travel timeline.
We assist with passport services at our Atlanta, Seattle, Washington DC, Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Hollywood, and Clearwater locations.
We also offer virtual appointments for travelers nationwide.
If your trip is approaching, let our team know your departure date so we can explain the available options for your situation.
Final Thoughts
Having a stolen passport before travel does not necessarily mean you have to cancel your trip. The key is to act quickly.
Report the stolen passport, gather your required documents, and look into expedited replacement options if you have upcoming international travel.
The sooner you begin the replacement process, the more options you may have before your departure date.