Lost or Stolen Passport?

Some people have wondered what they should do if their passport is lost or stolen. The answer to this question would depend on where you lost your passport: in the U.S. or in a foreign country.

If your passport is lost within the U.S. you must report is lost or stolen right away and then you need to take the necessary steps to replace your passport. In order to report a lost or stolen passport you'll need to complete a statement (Form Ds-64) regarding a lost or stolen passport. Once you have reported your passport lost or stolen it becomes invalidated and can no longer be used for travel. In order to replace a lost or stolen passport one must appear in person at a Passport Agency or Acceptance Facility. 

Now if you are out of the country and find that your passport has been lost or stolen you must contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate as well as the local police. Don't worry, you will not be stranded in a foreign land; the U.S. Embassy and or Consulate will help you get an emergency passport, this can take up to three days. If you are traveling outside of the country some good advice would be to take a photocopy of your passport and give one to a relative or friend and put one in your luggage. This way if your passport does get lost or stolen, you'll have a copy and your friend or relative will have a copy that they could fax over if need be.  Usually if you can provide a copy of your passport officials will be able to get you a new one within 48 hours.