What is an emergency travel document?
An emergency travel document (ETD) is a one-way temporary passport issued by your consulate when your passport is lost, stolen, or destroyed abroad.
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What an emergency travel document is
Losing your passport abroad is stressful - but there is a clear path forward. An emergency travel document (ETD) is a single-use travel document issued by your consulate that lets you fly home or to a specific approved destination.
ETDs go by different names depending on the country: emergency passport (US, UK, Australia), passeport d'urgence (France), Reiseausweis als Passersatz (Germany). The purpose is the same.
When you need an ETD
- Your passport has been lost or stolen abroad.
- Your passport is damaged beyond recognition or use.
- Your passport has expired during your trip and you need to return home urgently.
- Your child was born abroad and needs travel documents to come home.
How to get an emergency travel document
First, report your lost or stolen passport to local police and get a written police report. Then contact the nearest embassy or consulate of your country - many have 24-hour emergency lines.
You will typically need to provide a police report (for lost or stolen), 2 passport-sized photos, proof of identity (driver's license, ID card, or photocopy of your old passport), and proof of travel plans (flight booking).
Cost and processing time
Most ETDs are issued within 24-72 hours, though emergency cases (like a flight in a few hours) can sometimes be expedited. Fees range from around USD 30 (some countries) to USD 200 (US emergency passport).
Using your ETD
An ETD is usually valid for a single journey - one trip back to your home country or one trip to a pre-approved destination. Once you arrive home, you must apply for a regular passport before traveling internationally again.
What is an emergency travel document - FAQ
Report it to local police immediately and get a written report. Then contact your country's nearest embassy or consulate to apply for an emergency travel document.
Most are issued within 24-72 hours, though same-day issuance is possible in genuine emergencies. Plan to stay near a consulate while waiting.
Usually not. Most ETDs are valid only for a one-way trip home or to a specific approved destination, not for continued tourist travel.
Yes. Your trip1 booking is tied to your name and dates, not your passport number. Just bring the ETD and your booking confirmation.
Reporting it to your embassy automatically cancels the old passport - this is to prevent identity theft, so do not delay reporting.
