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How To Deal With A Lost American Passport

If you want to replace a lost US pasport, 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

To report a lost US passport, you can call the Department of State on their toll free number 1-877-487-272. You can also download a DS-64 form and mail it in or submit it personally. Once you have reported it as lost or stolen, there is no way that it can be re-validated even if you do find it again.

If In A Foreign Country

If you are abroad, you should contact your nearest consulate or embassy as soon as possible. They cannot expedite the issue of a new passport if you are overseas but they can issue you one with a limited validity if you need to return home. All passports are printed in the United States and posted overseas if that is where you apply.

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 apply to the Department of State in America, it is possible to have the process expedited. This can be done in person at a passport agency or any other official agent such as the Post Office. This application has to be done on a DS-82 form. It will still only halve the time that it would normally take and could be delivered within 2 to 3 weeks.

24-Hour Service

An expediting company can ensure much faster delivery and you could get your passport within 24 hours if you have pre-booked a flight. There will normally be a range of options that you can choose from. These will range from a day to a couple of weeks.

Documents

However you choose to apply, there will be a number of documents that you need. You will need to supply the originals and copies. If you are applying by mail the original damaged American pasport documents will be returned to you by mail so it is best to choose the tracking option. You should also use sturdy, weatherproof envelopes.