What to Do If You Lose Passport In Saudi Arabia

Losing a passport while traveling can be stressful, but it's not the end of the world. If you experience a loss passport in Saudi Arabia, there are structured steps you can take to recover the situation. Keeping a passport secure should always be a priority, whether you're a tourist, business traveler, or an Umrah & Hajj pilgrim. However, if you lose it, knowing what to do will help minimize delays and complications.

Stay Calm & Retrace Your Steps

Panic only worsens the situation. Take a deep breath and methodically retrace steps before taking official action.

• Check hotel room, luggage, or any bags you’ve carried.
• Visit the last places you were at, such as restaurants, mosques, or taxis.
• Ask hotel staff or local authorities if a passport has been found.

If passport is not located, move to the next steps.

Report the Lost Passport to Local Authorities

It is essential to report loss passport to the police as soon as possible. The police report is often required for embassy procedures.

• Visit the nearest police station in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, or Madinah.
• Provide any form of identification, such as a passport copy, visa details, or national ID.
• Obtain a police report, as it is necessary for embassy assistance and potential exit procedures.

Contact Your Embassy or Consulate

Your country’s embassy or consulate is primary resource in replacing lost passport.

Locate the nearest embassy (e.g., Indian Embassy in Riyadh or Jeddah).

Gather the required documents:

• A copy of a lost passport (if available)
• Police report
• Visa details
• Proof of identity (driver’s license, national ID, etc.)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Apply for an Emergency Certificate (EC) or Temporary Passport that allows you to travel back home.

 Tip: Visit your embassy’s website for guidelines and appointment scheduling.

Notify Travel Provider & Authorities

Depending on visa type, notify the appropriate authorities:

• For Hajj or Umrah Pilgrims: Inform travel agent or the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for assistance.
• For Tourists & Business Travelers: Report lost passport to Saudi immigration authorities if needed.
• For Sponsored Expats: Notify employer or sponsor to assist in required documentation.

Arrange for an Exit Visa (If Needed)

Saudi Arabia requires an exit visa for travelers leaving the country, including those with lost passports.

• Your embassy will coordinate with Jawazat (Saudi Passport Office) to process for exit visa.
• Submit necessary documents, including Emergency Certificate and police report.
• Processing times vary, so stay in close contact with authorities.

Preventive Tips for Travelers

Taking precautions can help you avoid the stress of a loss passport while traveling:

• Make digital & physical copies of a passport and store them separately.
• Use a hotel safe or secure travel pouch for passport storage.
• Register with your embassy before traveling for quicker assistance.
• Utilize a passport tracking app or a smart tag for added security.
• Carry a secondary ID at all times.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get a replacement passport in Saudi Arabia?
Processing times vary by country, but obtaining an Emergency Certificate or Temporary Passport usually takes a few days. Exit visa processing times may also vary.

2. Can I travel within Saudi Arabia without a passport?
Travel restrictions apply if passport is lost. Contact local authorities and your embassy for guidance.

3. What if I lose my passport during Hajj or Umrah?
Notify Hajj or Umrah travel agent immediately. They can assist in reporting to authorities and contacting embassy.

4. Do I need a police report to replace my passport?
Yes, a police report is often required for embassy processing of an emergency travel document.

5. Can my embassy help with an exit visa?
Most embassies work with Saudi Jawazat to facilitate the exit visa process.