A passport is an official document issued to a person to identify its owner as a citizen of a particular country. Its elements include the name of the person, nationality, age and sex. It also includes a photograph of its owner as this is the one sure way to describe the document holder. This is why it’s so important to handle a stolen passport properly.

Stolen In Your Home Country

Perhaps you have planned an extensive trip abroad and as you are packing you realize your passport is nowhere to be found. This is devastating. Search your house and all previous luggage, however, if you suspect your passport may have been stolen, then you must report it. By reporting it to the proper officials you can red flag it if it’s used, this way no one else can use your documents. This is a very important step in the process of replacing a stolen passport.

Abroad Loss

If you suspect your passport has been stolen while you are abroad, which is quite common, it is so important to tell the authorities right away. This prevents you from trouble if you are asked to show your travel documents. It also will put a stop on your passport, this way anyone who tries to use it will be red flagged and caught.

Stay Calm

It is important throughout this ordeal to remain calm. Staying calm will allow you to think clearly and process necessary information. This way you can properly speak with authorities and fill out all replacement paperwork with a clear head avoiding mistakes that can delay the process.

Report It

There are two ways to go about it. Telephone the relevant personnel and explain that you want to report a stolen document. You can get the contact information of the authorities you need to report to online. The other option is to go in person to the offices of the agency that issues these identification documents. You will be required to fill out a specific form and it is vital to give as much information as you can in regard to your stolen document.

It’s Cancelled

Once reported stolen, the passport is then invalidated. This will prevent anyone from using it. You must be absolutely sure that it is stolen before reporting it, otherwise, if found, you have an invalid passport.

The most important thing to do when this occurs is remain calm. This way it can be reported properly. It is also pertinent that all information be filled out properly in order to obtain a pasport renewal. A clear head will ensure proper completion of paperwork. Be sure to always keep your passport in a safe place and hopefully a stolen pasport can be avoided.