🚨 Emergency Passport Guide

Lost Passport Emergency Guide 2026

Don't panic. Whether you lost your passport at home or abroad, here's exactly what to do — step by step.

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If You Lost Your Passport in the USA

1

Report it lost or stolen

Report immediately at travel.state.gov or call 1-877-487-2778. This invalidates the passport and protects you from identity fraud.

2

Gather documents for replacement

You'll need: DS-11 (new application), proof of citizenship, photo ID, and a new passport photo.

3

Get your passport photo

You need a new 2×2 inch photo. Create it with PassportSnap in 2 minutes — no store trip needed while you're dealing with this.

4

Submit in person at a passport agency

For urgent travel, book an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. Routine replacements can go through standard acceptance facilities.

If You Lost Your Passport Abroad

1

Contact the nearest US Embassy or Consulate

Find locations at usembassy.gov. Call ahead — walk-ins may not be available. Explain your situation and ask for emergency passport services.

2

File a police report

If stolen, get a police report from local authorities. The embassy will likely request this.

3

Get a passport photo immediately

You'll need a 2×2 inch photo for the emergency passport application. PassportSnap works on your phone — take a photo in your hotel room and create a compliant photo in minutes.

4

Apply for an emergency passport

The embassy can issue an emergency passport (limited validity, typically 1 year) sufficient to return home. Bring: completed DS-11, police report, travel evidence (ticket, itinerary), photo ID, and passport photos.

5

Get a full replacement passport at home

The emergency passport gets you home. Apply for a full 10-year replacement passport once back in the US.

Emergency Passport Photo — On Your Phone, Right Now

No store. No delay. PassportSnap creates a compliant 2×2 inch passport photo in 2 minutes — anywhere in the world.

Create Your Passport Photo — Free

Why Having a Digital Passport Copy Matters

Store a clear photo of your passport data page in a secure cloud app (not just your camera roll). This makes reporting and replacement much faster by providing:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel with a lost passport that I haven't reported yet?
Technically yes if you still have it, but you should report it immediately. Once reported as lost, it is cancelled and you cannot use it for travel. Report it as soon as you know it's missing.
How quickly can I get an emergency passport?
US embassies abroad can issue emergency passports within 1–3 business days for travelers with imminent travel needs. At a Regional Passport Agency in the US, emergency appointments are available for travel within 3 business days.
Do I need a passport photo for an emergency passport?
Yes — all passport applications, including emergency replacements, require a compliant 2×2 inch photo. PassportSnap lets you create one from your hotel room or anywhere in the world in 2 minutes.