Passport lost abroad? How to secure your return!

Passport lost abroad? How to secure your return!

Losing or stealing a passport abroad can be a stressful situation that requires quick action. Those affected should immediately file a report with the local police in order to obtain a police certificate of loss, which is essential for applying for a new passport. Issuing a replacement travel document, which must be applied for in person at German authorities abroad, is the next step to enable return to Germany. Information about the nearest German mission abroad is available on the Federal Foreign Office website.

The time it takes to issue a replacement travel document depends on the response time of the responsible authority at your home place of residence. There are two types of replacement travel documents that can be provided. On the one hand, the travel document is available as a passport replacement (RAP), which is valid for up to one month when returning to Germany and costs 8 euros. On the other hand, a temporary passport can be issued which is valid for longer stays abroad and costs 70 euros. This information provides BR ready.

Important preparations and recommendations

To avoid possible problems, it is advisable to take precautions before traveling. A copy of the passport should be placed in your luggage and a photo of the passport stored digitally, for example on your smartphone or in your email inbox. It also makes sense to take a current passport photo with you, especially in countries that require a visa. A photo or copy of the entry stamp should also be taken to avoid potential difficulties in the event of a loss.

Especially in countries like India and China, losing your entry stamp can cause serious complications as your own exit visa is required. Obtaining such a visa can take days or even weeks and incur additional costs. In Russia, losing your passport can even lead to legal proceedings, which can result in fines or expulsion. This expulsion results in an entry ban of five years.

This is what happens after the loss

If the police are informed of the loss or theft, it is possible to issue a travel ID as a passport replacement (RAP) provided that certified photocopies of the lost identification documents are presented. Otherwise, the responsible German Citizens' Office must be contacted to check the applicant's identity. In most cases, proof of identity from Germany must also be applied for, which recommends contacting the responsible authorities early. In emergencies, German citizens can contact the embassy in Washington outside office hours on +1 202 298 4000. Replacement documents are only issued at consulates general during regular opening hours or by telephone arrangement, which is important for travelers should they run into difficulties. There is information about this Germany.info.