Lost passport recovery

The sequence in France is: get a "déclaration de perte" (or "vol" if stolen) at a police commissariat first. With it, the consulate will issue an emergency travel document. Without it, you wait longer and pay more. This is the step-by-step by scenario.

What happened?

What this tool actually solves

The "perte" / "vol" distinction matters. The French police will write a "déclaration de perte" (loss) or a "déclaration de vol" (theft). The consulate sees these differently — a theft with a commissariat receipt is processed faster than a loss with no proof.

How to read the result

Each scenario gives you a 5-step procedure. Step 1 is always the commissariat. Step 2 is the consulate. Steps 3–5 depend on the case.

Limitations

Wait times at commissariats are highly variable — 30 min in small cities, 3–4 hours in Paris. Use the online "pré-plainte" system for non-emergency loss before going to the station.

FAQ

What is "pré-plainte"?

A pre-complaint system at pre-plainte-en-ligne.gouv.fr. For a non-emergency loss (you know you lost it, no crime), you can submit a declaration online and save 2–3 hours at the commissariat. For a theft, go to the station.

Will the consulate help me on a weekend?

Most have a 24/7 emergency line (the consulates mentioned here). Same-day emergency passports are possible for emergencies (medical evacuation, family funeral). For ordinary loss, plan for the next business day.

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1 of 38 tools in France Trip Toolkit. Independent.

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Disclaimer

Estimate only. Consulate procedures vary.