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Lost Passport Guide

Step-by-step guide when passport is lost or stolen

Don't panic if your passport is lost or stolen - most countries can issue emergency travel documents within 24-48 hours. This guide covers the police reporting process, how to contact your embassy/consulate, required documents checklist, embassy directory, prevention tips, and important notes to help you handle a lost passport situation in China. Emergency contacts: Police 110, Consular Protection Hotline 12308.

Features

Report to Police

Go to the nearest police station and file a theft/loss report to receive a Police Report - essential for getting a replacement passport

Contact Your Embassy/Consulate

Call your country's embassy or consulate immediately - they can issue an Emergency Travel Document and guide you through the process

Gather Required Documents

Prepare police report, passport photos, copy of lost passport, other ID, flight itinerary, and hotel booking confirmation

Visit Your Embassy

Emergency Travel Document: same day to 24 hours. Temporary Passport: 1-3 business days. Regular Passport: 1-2 weeks

Get Exit Permit

With your Emergency Travel Document, you may need an Exit Permit from the local Entry-Exit Administration Bureau

Usage Guide

1

Step 1

Stay calm and recall the last place and time you used your passport

2

Step 2

Go to the nearest police station to file a report and get the Police Report

3

Step 3

Call 12308 Consular Protection Hotline or contact your country's embassy/consulate

4

Step 4

Prepare required documents: police report, passport photos, copy of passport, etc.

5

Step 5

Bring all documents to your embassy for Emergency Travel Document processing

6

Step 6

If needed, visit the local Entry-Exit Administration Bureau for an Exit Permit

7

Step 7

Notify your airline and hotel about your passport situation

8

Step 8

Keep all receipts and documents for potential insurance claims

9

Step 9

Contact your airline to rearrange flights if departure date changes

Pro Tips

  • Fastest sequence: report to police (110) first, then contact your embassy/consulate with the police report.
  • Confirm mission by city: Beijing is usually embassy HQ; Shanghai/Guangzhou are often consulates.
  • Keep a photocopy of your passport separately
  • Store photos of passport in your phone/cloud
  • Email yourself copies of important documents
  • Register with your embassy before traveling
  • Keep your passport in hotel safe when not needed
  • Hotels cannot check you in without valid ID - your embassy can provide a letter
  • You cannot leave China without proper documentation
  • Emergency Travel Documents are typically one-way only

FAQ

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