What to do if you lose your passport while travelling in Vietnam?
Losing your passport abroad can be stressful — but staying calm is the first and most important step. Below are essential tips and step-by-step guidance to help you handle the situation quickly and keep your holiday from turning into a nightmare.
– Take a photo of your passport and keep digital copies saved on your phone and in your email.
– Carry a photocopy of your passport in your wallet and store the original safely in the hotel safe.
– Avoid keeping your passport in an easy-to-open handbag or in your back pocket.
– When going out, bring only a copy of your passport and visa — keep the original in a secure place.
Stay calm and check all your belongings carefully
Before making a report on your passport lost, carefully go through all your luggage, handbags, hotel room, taxi, or any place you have recently visited.
- In many cases, a “lost passport” turns out to be misplaced — left in a jacket pocket or a hotel safe.
- If you just took a taxi, ask the hotel reception or use your ride-hailing app to contact the driver and check.
Notify your tour guide or group leader immediately
If you are travelling with a tour group, please contact your tour guide immediately. They are experienced and familiar with local procedures.
- They can help interpret, contact the police, your embassy or consulate, or your airline on your behalf.
- In many cases, the tour guide can also help prepare the necessary documents and adjust your itinerary, so you can still receive support while waiting for replacement travel documents.
Report the loss to the local police
If your passport is definitely lost or stolen, visit the nearest police station to file an official “Lost passport report” (Police report)
- This report is extremely important when applying for an emergency travel document at your embassy or consulate in Vietnam.
- Remember to keep a photocopy or take a photo of the report for your records.
Contact your embassy or consulate in Vietnam immediately
This is your most important point of contact abroad.
At the embassy or consulate, you will be guided on how to apply for an emergency travel document or a temporary passport so you can continue your trip or return home.
Prepare the following:
- A copy of your passport (or a photo saved on your phone, if available)
- Your ID card, driver’s license, flight ticket, or any other form of identification
- The police report confirming your passport loss
Inform your airline and hotel
Notify your airline so they can verify your passenger information and assist during check-in for your return flight.
Hotels can also help you print documents, contact the police or embassy, and may even extend your stay if you need more time while waiting for your travel document to be reissued.
