What to do if your documents are lost or stolen abroad

More than 19% of travel incidents are related to luggage issues, including lost documents.

InterMundial, a travel insurance specialist, outlines the steps to take if your documents are lost or stolen while abroad this holiday season and how travel insurance can help manage the situation. 19.60% of holiday incidents are related to luggage problems, which includes the loss or theft of documents such as national ID cards, passports, and driver's licenses.

1. File a police report

The first step is to file a report at a police station. Whether it was a robbery, theft, or loss, the report will protect you against identity theft.

2. Visit the embassy or consulate

Once the report is filed, you must go to the nearest Spanish embassy or consulate to request a new passport so you can return to Spain. The documentation required for this process varies by country, but generally, you will need two passport-sized photos, the police report, and a photo ID to prove your identity. If you do not have a photo ID, a sworn statement from another Spanish citizen confirming your identity may be accepted. If Spain does not have a diplomatic mission in your destination, you should go to the embassy of any European Union member state.

3. Pay the administrative fees for the passport

You will need to pay the required administrative fees to have a new passport issued. If you cannot cover the cost, the embassy can contact a family member to pay the amount or, in cases of necessity, advance the funds, which must be reimbursed to the Public Treasury once you are back in Spain. If you have travel insurance, your provider will reimburse you for these fees.

4. Emergency situations: travel document

In an emergency that requires you to return to Spain urgently, or if your return transport departs less than 48 hours after the loss or theft of your passport, the embassy can issue a temporary travel document to allow you to return to Spain.

Loss or theft of other personal belongings

1. Loss of money or credit cards

It is common for other personal items, such as money or credit cards, to be lost or stolen along with your documents. Having travel insurance is very useful in these situations. If this happens, the insurer will, with your authorization, cancel your bank cards and cover the costs of issuing new ones. Additionally, you can request an advance of funds from the company so you can continue your trip.

2. Loss of keys

Similarly, if you lose the keys to your home, the insurer will cover the cost of a locksmith upon your return. If the lost keys belong to a hotel safe and it must be forced open to retrieve your belongings, your travel policy will also cover the repair costs.

3. Loss of valuables

Other valuables that travelers often carry on vacation, such as cameras or smartphones, which are also at risk of theft, are usually covered under travel policy extensions. In the event of theft involving violence or intimidation, financial compensation of up to €200 per item and €500 per claim may be provided.