I Lost My Passport and Visa in China: 5 Things You Must Do

“I lost my passport and visa in China” is probably the last thing you ever wanted to say. But don’t panic, there’s a clear way to fix this. 

First, you’ll need to report it to the local police to get an official passport loss certificate.

 After that, get in touch with your country’s embassy or consulate to request a replacement passport. 

Once that's sorted, you can apply for a new visa at the nearest Chinese public security office. 

If you’re not sure how to handle this situation, this article covers the five essential steps you need to follow before things get complicated.

Immediate Steps to Take After Losing Your Passport and Visa in China

Losing your passport and visa while in a foreign country can be stressful, but staying calm and taking prompt action can help. First, try looking in the places you’ve visited and report the loss to local authorities.

1. Retrace Your Steps and Check Lost & Found

Begin by retracing your recent steps. Think about where you last used or saw your passport and visa. 

Check any bags, pockets, or other personal items you’ve had with you. Visiting the places you've been is important, too.

Contact the lost and found departments of places you visited, like hotels or stores. Some venues may have a designated area or office for lost items. Leave your contact information in case your documents are found later.

Additionally, consider asking residents or staff if they’ve seen your items. Sometimes a simple question can quickly resolve the situation. 

Ensuring you’ve covered these steps can significantly increase your chances of recovery.

2. Report the Loss to the Local Police Station

If retracing your steps doesn't work, report the loss to the local police station immediately. This is important to get an official record of your loss.

When you visit the police station, explain the situation clearly. Provide any relevant details about your last known location with the documents. 

The police will create a report and issue you a Receipt of Report (报警回执). This document is crucial for further steps, like contacting your embassy.

Ensure you have copies or photos of the report in case they are needed later for any arrangements. 

Taking these steps early can help streamline the process of recovering your passport and visa.

📖 Also Read: China Visa-Free Travel: 2025 Guide to Enter China w/o a Visa

Obtaining Official Confirmation for a Lost Passport and Visa in China

Reporting and obtaining official confirmation is essential if you lose your passport and visa in China. The process involves visiting local authorities to ensure the loss is recorded, which may be required before obtaining replacements.

3. Apply for the "Confirmation of Reporting the Loss of Passport"

First, you must report your lost passport to the local police station. Then, head to the Exit & Entry Administration of the local Public Security Bureau to apply for the official "Confirmation of Reporting the Loss of Passport."

Here’s exactly what you’ll need to bring:

• Police Report: Original and a copy of the official “Receipt of Report” from your local police station.
• Proof of Identity: A copy of your lost passport (if you have it) or other valid IDs, like your ID card, social security card, or driver's license.
• Photos: Two recent passport-style photos (2-inch), bareheaded with a full-face view.
• Completed Application Form: Obtain this from the bureau and fill it out clearly with accurate personal information, including your contact number.

After submitting these documents, expect to wait around two working days for processing and issuance. Processing times may vary slightly, so it’s best to confirm the details when you submit your paperwork. 

Having copies of your lost passport or visa on hand will help speed up the verification and replacement process.

4. Apply for A Replacement Passport or Temporary Passport

If you’ve lost your passport and visa in China, you’ll need to quickly replace them to avoid complications. 

First, visit your embassy or consulate as soon as possible to apply for either a new regular passport or a temporary passport. 

Keep in mind, the official confirmation certificate from the police is only valid for 30 days. You must get your replacement passport and new China visa within this timeframe; otherwise, you could face fines or even detention.

To make things smoother, apply in person at your embassy or consulate and bring all the required documents. The consular staff will help guide you through the process.

Required Documents for Passport Replacement

If you're a U.S. citizen, here’s exactly what you’ll need to bring:

• Original Confirmation Certificate ("Confirmation of Reporting the Loss of Passport")
• One recent passport photo (2”x2”, color)
• Completed Passport Application Forms (DS-11 and DS-64; available at the embassy or online)
• Proof of Identity (driver’s license, student ID, photo ID, etc.)
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship (original birth certificate, expired passport, naturalization certificate, etc.)
• Travel itinerary (flight/train/cruise tickets)
• Written statement detailing how your passport was lost
• Passport application fee

Having all these documents ready will help ensure you get your new passport without unnecessary delays.

How Much to Replace a Lost Passport?

Replacing a lost passport comes with certain fees, which can vary based on your nationality and how quickly you need it. 

Typically, you'll face these charges:

• Standard Application Fee: This covers the processing of your new passport. For instance, replacing a lost Chinese passport usually costs around Rs. 1200 per passport, but exact fees depend on your embassy or consulate.
• Expedited Service Fee: If you're in a hurry, expect an additional fee for expedited processing.

Fees can change, so always check directly with your embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information. 

In some cases, special circumstances might qualify you for reduced fees or waivers.

How Long to Replace a Lost Passport?

The time it takes to replace a lost passport depends on several factors, including your location, embassy workload, and the urgency of your travel. 

Here’s what you need to know:

• Standard Processing Time: Replacing a passport through regular service usually takes over 2 weeks. This can vary based on the embassy or consulate’s workload, holidays, or location.
• No Weekend or Holiday Service: Embassies and consulates do not issue passports on weekends or public holidays. If you’re in an emergency, you can call the after-hours officer for guidance.
• Expedited Passport Services: Expedited processing may be available but is usually only offered in your home country. If available, it typically takes several working days and involves additional fees.
• Emergency Travel Document: If you’re flying soon and can’t wait for a full passport:

✓ You can apply for an Emergency Travel Document.

✓ It’s generally issued within 24 hours.

✓ It’s valid only for the duration of your return trip.

✓ Once home, you’ll need to apply for a regular passport.

Stay in close contact with your embassy or consulate to track your application and get real-time updates, especially if you're on a tight travel schedule.

5. Applying for a New Chinese Visa

After losing your passport and visa in China, you must secure a replacement passport first. Once you have the new passport, the next step is to apply for a new Chinese visa. 

This involves visiting the appropriate authorities and understanding the application procedures and processing times.

Visit the Exit & Entry Administration

To start the visa application, you must visit the local Exit & Entry Administration office. Here, you will need to complete an application form. Be sure to bring necessary documents, including:

• Your new passport
• A recent passport-sized photo
• Proof of accommodation
• Records of your previous visa, if available

There may be a fee for processing your visa application. Payment methods can vary, so check the options available at the local office. It is recommended to verify the specific requirements and fees in your area as these can differ.

Processing Time and Considerations

The processing time for a new visa typically ranges from a few days to a week. However, it is important to account for any additional time during busy periods or holidays.

• Standard processing: 5-7 business days
• Express services: Available for an additional fee

Consider applying for expedited processing if you have immediate travel needs. Always plan for potential delays by starting your application as soon as possible after receiving your replacement passport.

By preparing the necessary documents and understanding the process, you can smoothly navigate the application for your new Chinese visa.

📖 Also Read: China Employment Visa: Requirements and Application Process

What To Do If You Find Your Lost Passport After Reporting

When you report your passport lost, it is marked invalid. If you find it later, the passport cannot be used for travel, and using it may have legal consequences.

Here's what you should do:

• Do Not Attempt to Travel With It: Once you've reported a passport as lost, it’s considered invalid, even if you find it later. Using it can lead to serious issues, including being denied boarding or flagged at immigration.
  
  
• Inform the Embassy or Consulate: Contact the embassy or consulate where you reported the loss. Let them know you’ve recovered the passport so they can update their records.
  
  
• Follow Their Instructions: They may ask you to return the old passport for cancellation. In some cases, you might be allowed to keep it as a souvenir, but only after it’s been officially voided.
  
  
• Continue with Your Replacement Passport Process: If you've already started the application for a new passport, continue with it. The old one cannot be reactivated for travel.
  
  

Always double-check with your embassy or consulate for specific instructions, as procedures may vary slightly by country.

📖 Also Read: China Business Travel Visa: M Visa Application & Requirements

Tips for Preventing Future Passport and Visa Loss

Losing your travel documents can be a major hassle. The best way to avoid that stress is by taking simple, consistent precautions. Here’s how to keep your passport and visa safe on every trip.

Best Practices for Carrying and Storing Your Documents

  ✓  Use secure storage when on the move: Keep your passport and visa in a zippered pocket, money belt, or neck pouch worn under your clothes. Avoid storing them in back pockets or loose bags that are easy to access.

  ✓  Keep documents out of sight in public places: Never place your passport or visa on café tables, seats, or shared surfaces. These are common spots where people forget or get their items stolen.

  ✓  Use your hotel safe: When you don’t need your passport during the day, lock it in your hotel safe instead of carrying it around unnecessarily.

  ✓  Do regular document checks: Before leaving any location—airports, hotels, restaurants—make it a habit to check that you have your passport and visa with you.

Back Up Your Documents—Physically and Digitally

 ✓  Carry physical copies: Make photocopies of your passport and visa and keep them in a separate bag, wallet, or with a travel partner. This helps if the originals go missing.

 ✓  Use cloud storage: Save scanned copies of your documents to a secure cloud platform like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud. Make sure the folder is password-protected.

 ✓  Email yourself the files: Send yourself copies of your documents via email. That way, you can access them from any device if needed.

 ✓  Have an alternate access plan: In case your phone or laptop is lost, make sure you can still log into your email or cloud account from another device.

These simple habits can help you avoid future disruptions and make replacing lost documents easier if it ever happens again.

Final Thoughts

Losing your passport and visa in China can be overwhelming, but staying calm and taking the right steps makes all the difference. 

By reporting the loss, gathering the required documents, visiting your embassy, and applying for replacements promptly, you can regain control and continue your journey. 

Preparation, patience, and clear action are key. 

If you face complications or need legal support during the process, seek help from professionals who understand the local system. Choi & Partners is one of the top legal firms in China, ready to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for expert assistance.

FAQs About "I Lost My Passport and Visa in China"

Losing your passport and visa in China can be stressful, but knowing the steps to take can make the process smoother. Below, find answers to common questions related to handling this situation.

Can I leave China without a visa if I have a new passport?

You cannot leave China without a valid visa, even if you have a new passport. You must apply for a new visa before departure. Visit the nearest local police station to report the loss and then proceed to the relevant government authorities.

How long does it take to get a replacement passport in China?

The time to get a replacement passport varies. Contact your country's embassy or consulate for specific timelines. They will guide you through the process, which usually involves verifying your identity and submitting necessary documentation.

What if I don't have copies of my lost documents?

Losing all document copies can complicate things. You should immediately report the loss to local authorities and your embassy. They might help reconstruct necessary information through other forms of identification or records.

Will I face penalties for losing my passport and visa in China?

There might be fines or fees for losing your passport and visa. Check with local authorities and your embassy for precise details on any penalties involved. They can provide specific advice based on your situation.

What is the fastest way to replace a lost visa?

Report the loss immediately and apply for a temporary visa. Visit your country's embassy or consulate for expedited services. Seeking help from officials can expedite the process, ensuring swift issuance of a new visa.

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