A detailed guide on what to do if you lose your passport while traveling abroad

Losing your passport in a foreign country can be a traveler’s worst nightmare. It is an extremely important document after leaving your country, whether for business or pleasure. Unfortunately, passport theft and loss is common and it is best to be prepared for any eventuality.

The passport is the definitive document that authenticates and certifies its holders as citizens of India by birth or by naturalization as per the Passports Act, 1967.

There are some travel insurance companies that cover passport loss, but in case you don’t have it covered, here’s a step-by-step guide.

First, report the matter to the nearest police station in the country you are in.

Then, seek help from the Indian embassy in that country. Apply for an emergency certificate or request a passport reissue and the officials will tell you the specific requirements.

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An emergency certificate is a document that can be obtained to return to India urgently and undertake a one-way trip.

If you have all the required documents, the embassy can issue a new passport with a new number and validity date.

However, you will need to apply for a new visa if you wish to continue your trip with your itinerary. Submit copies of your previous visa, passport, police report, accommodation details, flight itinerary and proof of funds to obtain a new visa.

An Indian citizen above the age of 18 years can submit two of these documents for issuance of passport:

• Ration card.
• Voter ID issued by the Election Commission of India.
• Own passport, not revoked or damaged.
• The birth certificate issued in accordance with the Birth and Death Registration Act.
• PAN card.
• Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe/Other Backward Caste Certificate.
• Driving license
• Identity document issued by the State or central administration, public sector companies, local entities or public limited companies.
• Identity card issued by an educational institution.
• Weapons license.
• Pension documents, such as the pension booklet for former military personnel or the pension payment order, the certificate of widow/dependent of former military personnel and the old-age pension order.
• Bank/Post Office Passbook/Kisan

Regardless of these remedies, it is advisable that you keep a close watch and ensure that your passport, among other important documents, do not get lost during your travels and journeys.