What To Do If You Lose Your Passport?

Imagine enjoying a nice holiday at your favourite getaway destination. Everything seems perfect until you discover that your passport is missing!

Losing a passport is a stressful experience, especially when you’re travelling. Not to worry though - this article will guide you through the steps to take if you find yourself in this sticky situation, with a focus on lost passports in Singapore.

Table of contents

• Key Takeaways
• How Long Does It Take to Replace a Passport in Singapore?
• Lost Passport and Imminent Flight from Singapore
• Steps to Take if You've Lost Your Passport in Singapore
• Losing Your Passport in Another Country
• Foreigners Who Lose Their Passport in Singapore
• Process After Losing a Passport
• Non-Refundable Fees for Passport Loss
• Travel Insurance Coverage for Lost Passports
• Tips to Avoid Losing Your Passport
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Key Takeaways:

• File a police report immediately upon realising your passport is lost.
• Contact your country's embassy or high commission for assistance.
• Replacing a passport in Singapore typically takes a few working days for citizens.
• Travel insurance may cover expenses related to lost passports.
• Always keep your passport in a secure location and make copies for emergencies.

How Long Does It Take to Replace a Passport in Singapore?

For Singapore citizens, the process of replacing a lost passport typically takes several working days (1 to 2 weeks). It's important to note that this timeline applies to local applications and may vary for those who have lost their passport while abroad.

Lost Passport and Imminent Flight from Singapore

If a traveller loses their passport in Singapore and has a flight scheduled for the next day, they should take immediate action:

1. Contact the airline to inform them of the situation and potentially reschedule the flight.
2. Visit the nearest police station to file a police report.
3. Contact their country's embassy or high commission in Singapore for emergency travel document issuance.

Steps to Take if You've Lost Your Passport in Singapore

1. File a police report at the nearest police station.
2. Contact your country's embassy or high commission in Singapore.
3. Provide necessary documentation (police report, proof of identity, travel itinerary).
4. Apply for an emergency travel document or temporary passport.
5. Pay any required fees for the emergency document.

Losing Your Passport in Another Country

The process is similar when losing a passport abroad:

1. File a police report in the country where the loss occurred.
2. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of your home country.
3. Provide necessary documentation and apply for an emergency travel document.
4. Arrange for a new visa if required for your destination or transit country.

Foreigners Who Lose Their Passport in Singapore

Foreign visitors who lose their passport in Singapore should:

1. File a police report with the Singapore Police Force.
2. Contact their country's embassy or high commission in Singapore.
3. Apply for a replacement passport or emergency travel document.
4. Notify the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore about the loss and any change in travel documents.

Process After Losing a Passport

1. File a police report immediately.
2. Contact the relevant embassy or high commission.
3. Gather necessary documents (birth certificate, ID card, passport photos).
4. Fill out required forms for a replacement passport or emergency travel document.
5. Pay the necessary fees.
6. Wait for processing and issuance of the new document.

Non-Refundable Fees for Passport Loss

If you lose your passport, additional non-refundable fees will apply on top of the standard passport fee. In addition to the standard passport fee of S$70 for applications submitted online, by post or via deposit box, or S$80 for applications submitted in person at the ICA Building or a Singapore Overseas Mission, you will need to pay the following non-refundable fees:

• S$50 for the first passport loss
• S$100 for any subsequent losses

Travel Insurance Coverage for Lost Passports

Many travel insurance policies offer coverage for lost passports. This may include:

• Reimbursement for replacement fees
• Coverage for additional accommodation and travel expenses incurred due to the loss
• Assistance services to help navigate the replacement process

You may want to check the specific terms of your travel insurance policy, as coverage can vary.

Tips to Avoid Losing Your Passport

• Use a money belt or hidden pouch to carry your passport.
• Keep your passport locked in a hotel safe when not needed.
• Make digital and physical copies of your passport.
• Avoid carrying your passport unnecessarily while sightseeing.
• Be extra vigilant in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Consider using a passport cover for added protection and visibility.
• Always double-check that you have your passport before leaving any location.

By following these guidelines, travellers can minimise the risk of losing their passports and be better prepared to handle the situation if it does occur. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to safeguarding important travel documents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I travel without my passport if I've lost it?

A: No, you cannot travel internationally without a valid passport. If you've lost your passport, you'll need to obtain an emergency travel document or a replacement passport before you can travel.

Q2: How much does it cost to replace a lost passport in Singapore?

A: For Singapore citizens, the fee for replacing a lost passport is currently S$70. In addition, you will need to pay the following non-refundable fees: S$50 for the first passport loss; S$100 for any subsequent losses.

Q3: Will my visa still be valid if I get a new passport?

A: In most cases, when you lose your passport, you lose the visas in it as well. You'll need to reapply for visas in your new passport. Some countries may have procedures to reissue visas based on records of previously granted visas, but this varies by country.

Q4: How long does an emergency travel document last?

A: The validity of emergency travel documents varies by country. Many are valid for very limited periods, often just long enough for a single journey back to your home country. Some may be valid for up to a year.

Q5: Can I get a refund for my flight if I can't travel due to a lost passport?

A: This depends on your airline's policies and your ticket type. Some airlines may offer refunds or allow you to reschedule in emergency situations. It's best to contact your airline directly to discuss your options.

Q6: What if I find my passport after reporting it lost?

A: If you find your passport after reporting it lost, you should immediately inform the police and your embassy. However, once a passport is reported lost or stolen, it is usually cancelled and can no longer be used for travel.

Q7: Are there any penalties for losing a passport multiple times?

A: Some countries may impose additional fees or require more thorough explanations if you lose your passport repeatedly. In extreme cases, they might restrict your ability to obtain a new passport or limit its validity period.