What to do with a stolen passport: step by step for Brazilians abroad
Having your passport stolen during your international experience can turn an adventure into a time of stress. Especially for those who are fulfilling a dream of studying or working abroad, this setback can seem devastating. But rest assured! With the correct information and quick actions, you will be able to resolve this situation and continue enjoying your international journey.
First actions after the passport was stolen
The moment immediately after discovering that your passport has been stolen is crucial. The first and most important action is to file a Police Report (BO) with the local police as soon as possible. This document is essential not only to prove the theft, but also to avoid an additional fee of R$ 514.50 in the process of issuing the new passport. Without the BO, the total rate can reach R$ 771.75, an amount significantly higher than the standard rate of R$ 257.25.
Be sure to obtain an official copy of the bulletin, preferably translated into Portuguese or English. This document will be indispensable for all subsequent steps.
Contact with Brazilian representation
After obtaining the BO, you will need to contact the nearest Brazilian consulate or embassy. This step is essential to begin the process of issuing a new passport. Communication with the Brazilian diplomatic representation can be made in the following ways:
- E-Consular Platform: Official system for consular appointments and requests
- telephone: For urgent cases or clarification of doubts
- Email: For general information and required documentation
- In person: Some situations require personal attendance
Remember that physical presence is mandatory for the issuance of a new passport, and it is not possible to request this document by mail or completely online.
Required Documentation
To apply for a new passport, you will need to gather a series of essential documents. The process becomes much more efficient when you arrive at the consulate with all the documentation organized. It should be noted that only original documents are accepted - simple copies are generally not valid for this procedure.
The complete list includes: the Theft Police Report, a valid identity document (such as ID or CNH), birth certificate or other document that proves your Brazilian citizenship, proof of recent residence (up to three months old), and proof of payment of the consular fee.
New Passport Application Process
The process of applying for a new passport after theft follows a specific sequence that needs to be respected to avoid delays. Check out the step by step:
- Fill out the forms: Complete the lost/theft communication form and the form of E-Consular platform.
- Make the payment: The standard rate is R$ 257.25, but it may vary in special or urgent cases.
- Schedule the service: Use the E-Consular platform to set a date and time.
- Go to the consulate: Bring all original documents and proof of appointment.
- Perform biometrics: Collection of photos and fingerprints during service.
- Wait for processing: It usually takes 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the consulate.
Preventive measures for future trips
A stolen passport teaches us important lessons about international travel safety. To avoid going through this situation again, consider taking some essential preventive measures in your next experiences abroad, whether for University abroad Or to learning a language abroad.
Always keep a digital copy of your passport on cloud storage services or send it to your own email. Use anti-theft purses or wallets during your travels and avoid displaying important documents in public places. Travel insurance with coverage for lost documents can also be a great ally, helping to cover costs related to the issuance of new documents.
Implications for visas and work permits
Passport theft may affect your immigration status and your work or study permits. In many countries, such as Germany, Canada, Australia, and Ireland, you will need to inform the local immigration authorities about the loss of the original document.
Depending on the country where you are, you may need to apply for a new residence permit or visa after receiving your new passport. The Brazilian consulate may issue a statement confirming the theft and the request for a new document, which may help with interactions with local authorities.
It is recommended to consult an immigration specialist or the international relations department of your educational institution to receive specific guidance on how to proceed with your study or work permits after the incident.
Wait times and emergency options
The waiting time to receive a new passport can vary significantly depending on the country where you are and the demand at the local consulate. Generally, the deadline ranges from 7 to 21 business days. However, if you have an urgent need to travel, there are emergency options available:
- Return Authorization to Brazil (ARB): An emergency travel document that only allows you to return to Brazil
- Emergency passport: In justified cases, it may be issued more quickly
- Provisional passport: Valid for up to 12 months for specific situations
To access these options, you will need to prove the urgency of the situation, such as airline tickets already purchased or family emergencies. The consulate will evaluate each case individually.
Be Easy
Na Be Easy, we understand the challenges faced by students and professionals abroad. Our team offers full support before, during, and after your exchange, including guidance on documents, visas, and how to proceed in unforeseen situations such as passport theft. We have a global network of partners and international expertise to ensure that your experience abroad is transformative, even when setbacks arise. Contact us and discover how we can make your international journey safer and more enriching.
