What To Do About A Lost US Pass Port

February 3rd, 2012 | admin | Travel, Vacation

If you want to replace a lost American passport, it first has to be reported so it can be cancelled. When you apply for a new one, there is a specific form that is used for this purpose called a DS-11. You can make the new application in person, online through the Department of State website or by mail but the easiest and quickest way it to have an expediting company do it for you.

Report Loss

The first step is always to report the lost US passport so that it can be cancelled. You can also just download and include a DS-64 form with your application. Even if you do find it, it can’t be validated again and should be returned to the Department of State.

If In A Foreign Country

If you are overseas when you loose it, you can contact the US consulate or embassy. They can assist you to apply for a new one but the process cannot be expedited. If you cannot wait then it would be best to ask them for a temporary passport. Full ones can only be printed in the States and will be posted abroad.

Expediting

You can also apply via an expediting company if you are in another country. This can be done though their website and they are still able to complete the process much more quickly. It will still take slightly more time than with a standard application because of the increased distance of shipping. If you do have time to wait for a full passport, you could still apply with the assistance of the consulate or embassy. Although the same forms and documents are required there will be a different application process in different countries.

Replacement In The U.S.

If you are in the US, it is possible to have your application expedited. You can either mail in the application, which should be done on a DS-82 form, or you can submit it at a Post Office, passport agency or other official location. Routine applications should take 4-6 weeks and expedited applications 2-3 weeks if overnight delivery is arranged for sending and receiving.

24-Hour Service

Passport expediting companies will offer a range of different packages depending on how soon you need it. They could even have it done within 24 hours but it ranges from a few days to a week or two. Delivery with 24 hours is only available if you have made a booking.

Documents

Regardless of the way in which you apply, you will have to supply original lost United States passport and copies of all the documents required. These should be posted in sturdy and protective envelopes so that they are not damaged. It is also advisable to used tracking for postage. If you are applying through the Department of State then clearly mark expedited on the envelope if that is the option you want.

An application form needs to be accompanied by a statement of your lost United States pasport or your damaged US pasport.