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Losing a passport or having it stolen is one of the most traumatic events that can occur while abroad. You feel trapped and alone, petrified because there is no guarantee that you will get home. The most important thing to do is not to panic, as there is a procedure that if followed, will ensure that you arrive back in the United States safe and sound.
There are American embassies located in hundreds of locations around the world. Thanks to the internet, they are easy to find, all you have to do is search the U.S Embassy website, and they will have a whole host of information on embassies, consulates and even foreign Missions.
When you have located one of these embassies, inform them that you would like to speak to the American Citizens Service department and tell one of their number that your U.S passport has been lost or stolen. Do your best to aid them when they are attempting to verify your identity.
Every embassy is well prepared for the scenario of a lost or stolen passport, they deal with thousands of such incidents a year. They will help you to complete a new application, and confirm your identity. In fact, if you need to travel immediately, they can provide you with a quick replacement, or, ensure that you can journey home without any passport, instead, providing you with documentation that serves the same purpose.
Describe, in as much detail as you can, the circumstances which led to your passport being stolen or lost. It is understandable if the details are hazy, after all, if you knew the exact details, then perhaps you would have recovered the item already. By doing this, you will speed up the process that will result in a replacement being issued.
After completing all the paperwork there, proceed to the nearest police station. Explain the situation to them and file a police report. Though not an essential part of recovering your passport, this report may nonetheless prove useful. After this is completed, phone home and get in touch with a family member or friend, telling them that their assistance may be required in authenticating your identity.
A good idea is to make multiple copies, (two or more) of your passport before you leave the country. Entrust a member of your family or a friend with one copy, and take another copy with you, keeping that in a separate place. This precaution will alleviate the stress of waiting for a replacement, as it will speed up the process. If you lose it in the United States, then you must complete an application for a new one at your local travel or post office.
Irrespective of what country you are in, embassies are generally closed during holidays and weekends. In this instance, you will have to wait until they open before proceeding with the aforementioned steps. However, an after-hours officer may be may be summoned to help in emergencies.
Also, you are required to pay the regular fee when you get the replacement. If the person has also had all their money stolen, this fee will usually be ignored. Journeying abroad is supposed to be a pleasurable experience, ensure that it remains so by keeping your passport in a safe place at all times. Keep a copy in a secure location also, and have a relaxing holiday.
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