What happens if I lose my passport in Peru?

What to Do if You Lose Your Passport in Peru: Report Your Lost Passport to the Peruvian Police

Losing your passport while traveling in Peru can be a stressful experience.Reporting your lost passport to the Peruvian police is the first essential step in recovering your travel documents. This process will help you obtain a new emergency passport, so you can continue your trip without major delays. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to ensure a smooth recovery of your passport.

Step 1: Report Your Lost Passport to the Peruvian Police

The first action to take if you lose your passport in Peru is to report the loss to the police. Visit the nearest Peruvian police station to file a formal police report. This is a required step to apply for a new emergency passport.

Important: Make sure you request a paper copy of the police report, as you will need this document to proceed with the emergency passport application at the Mexican consulate.

Step 2: Contact the Mexican Embassy in Lima

Once you have the police report, your next step is to contact the Mexican Embassy in Lima. The embassy will provide guidance on how to proceed with the emergency passport process.

Embassy contact information:

• Address: Av. Jorge Basadre 710, San Isidro, Lima, Peru

• Main phone: +51 (1) 612-1600

• Emergency contact: +51 987 56 9404

• Hours: Monday to Friday (verify updated hours before visiting)

Step 3: Gather the Required Documents

To proceed with the emergency passport process, the MexicanEmbassy will ask for specific documents to confirm your Mexican nationality. If you lost any of these documents along with your passport, make sure to retrieve digital copies or request assistance in obtaining them online.

Documents you may need:

• Mexican birth certificate (original or certified copy)

• Official Mexican ID (INE, driver’s license, professional certificate)

• Copy of the lost passport (if available)

• Peruvian police report

• Two passport-sized photographs (if requested)

• Proof of flight or itinerary (if your departure is imminent)

Step 4: Apply for an Emergency or Protection Passport

The Mexican Embassy in Lima can issue an emergency passport if you need to leave the country urgently or continue your trip. This passport is valid for one year and will allow you to return to Mexico or continue with your international travels.

Cost:

• Approximate price: US$55
• A 30% surcharge may apply for walk-in emergencies.

Deadlines and Delivery Times for an Emergency Passport

• Emergency Passport: It can be issued within 48 business hours or even on the same day, depending on the situation.

• Ordinary Passport: Takes 6 to 8 weeks, as it needs to be printed in Mexico and then shipped to Lima.

Important Considerations When Losing Your Passport in Peru

• Visas: If your lost passport had stamped visas (e.g., Schengen, U.S., Canada), these will not be transferred to your new passport.

• Identity Verification: If you cannot verify your identity through documents, the process may take longer or require additional steps.

• The Embassy does not cover transportation, accommodation, or flight costs due to delays.

• Report your passport as lost to prevent misuse or identity theft.

Preventive Tips for U.S. Travelers in Peru

To avoid passport issues during your trip, consider these preventive tips:

• Keep digital and physical copies of your passport, INE, and travel tickets.
• Register emergency consular numbers before leaving.
• Purchase international travel insurance that covers document loss.
• Always store your documents in a safe location, away from crowded tourist spots.