People and movement
Lost or stolen British passport abroad
Losing a passport abroad is stressful, but there is a clear route through GOV.UK. First make sure you are safe, then protect your identity and work out whether you need a replacement passport or an emergency travel document. The right option depends on your nationality, travel plans and circumstances.
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Last checked: 7 November 2026 How we evaluate sources
Protect yourself and your identity
Cancel a lost or stolen British passport as soon as possible using GOV.UK. If you are applying for an emergency travel document, cancellation is handled within that application, so follow that process instead. A passport copy can help you answer identity questions.
If it was stolen, report the theft to local police and keep the reference or report for your insurer. Also contact your bank if payment cards were taken. Keep a short record of who you contacted and when.
Choose the right travel document
An emergency travel document may be available to an eligible British national abroad who needs to travel urgently and cannot replace their passport in time. Eligibility rules include previous passport history, so check the GOV.UK eligibility questions before applying. A normal replacement may suit you if you do not need to travel urgently.
Check whether your departure, destination and transit countries accept the document and whether you need a visa. An emergency document is usually for a particular single or return journey, rather than a replacement for ordinary future travel.
Check emergency travel document eligibility (opens in a new tab)
Application checklist
- Open the application from GOV.UK and check the current fee and requirements.
- Prepare a suitable new digital passport photo, an email address and a contact telephone number.
- Arrange a debit or credit card payment. A friend or relative can pay if you cannot.
- Have passport details or a secure copy available if you have one.
- Check the instructions for children and applications made for another person.
- Watch for emails requesting more information or explaining collection and appointments.
Apply and check collection arrangements (opens in a new tab)
Manage disrupted travel
Wait for the email from the issuing service explaining when and how you can obtain the document before booking travel. Cases can take longer when extra checks or appointments are needed. Changed travel plans may require another application and fee.
Contact your airline or tour operator about existing bookings and your insurer about covered expenses. Keep receipts and application references together. If you have nowhere safe to stay, cannot access money or have urgent welfare needs, explain those circumstances when seeking consular help.
Prepare for the next trip
Keep a secure passport copy separately from the original and leave essential travel details with someone you trust. Save your insurer's assistance number offline. After an emergency journey, follow the instructions about replacing your ordinary passport before arranging further travel.
Common questions
Can a friend apply for me?
The GOV.UK service allows applications for another British national. You may still need to attend an appointment or collect the document yourself. Follow the application instructions.
Will the embassy issue a full replacement passport?
Full British passports are issued by HM Passport Office. Consular services can help with an emergency travel document where you are eligible.
Make your next step practical
Keep preparing
Evidence and service information
Sources behind this guidance
We develop our guidance using the sources below. Check the named organisation for current service details, live warnings and local instructions. Sources checked 7 November 2026.