Losing your passport is every traveller’s worst nightmare – especially if you’re on a visa. Fear not, we have a quick 5-step guide to help you sort it all out. Here you go:
Step 1: Report it immediately
Go to the nearest police station and file a report. You’ll need an official case number. Everything is going to be just fine – simply follow these five step
If your passport was stolen, this is crucial for both your embassy and your insurance claim, especially because some embassies won’t process an emergency passport without it.
Step 2: Find your nearest South African embassy or consulate
Head to the nearest home away from home (aka South African Embassy/consulate) and ask for help with setting up an emergency travel certificate. The most common destinations where we tend to lose our passports are:
- Thailand: Contact the South African Embassy Bangkok
- UK: Reach out to the South African High Commission London
- USA: Call the South African Embassy Washington D.C.
- Dubai: Go to the South African Consulate Dubai
Step 3: Apply for an Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC)
This is a temporary travel document that gets you back to South Africa. Here are the requirements for lost passport incidents.
You’ll need:
- Your police report
- A copy of your ID or passport (photo works)
- Passport photos (some embassies take them there)
- Proof of travel (ticket, booking confirmation)
- Completed forms (they’ll give them to you)
- Possibly: your fingerprints
Processing times vary. In some places, it’s the same day. In others, up to 3 days.
Step 4: Check your visa status
If you need a visa to be in that country (e.g., Schengen, USA, UK), losing your passport means your visa is also gone. Some embassies will help you get a letter to leave. Others may require extra admin.
- Thailand or Turkey: Visa-free for SA passport holders. You’re safe.
- Schengen Zone: You may need to visit a local immigration office.
- UK or US: You’ll likely need clearance from local immigration before boarding.
Step 5: Notify your airline or travel insurer
- Call your airline: Some may ask for the ETC number or embassy confirmation.
- Contact your insurer: If your passport was stolen, you may be covered for replacement costs or missed flights.
- Keep receipts for any extra transport, documents, or admin fees.
For more travel advice, visit Travelstart.
