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US citizen lost passport, stuck in Canada without a passport
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My son is trying to return from Canada to the U.S. He is a U.S. citizen. He lost his passport at the airport. He has scanned a copy of his birth certificate and passport on his laptop. They will not allow him to board a flight to the U.S. What can we do?
passports us-citizens lost-documents
edited 22 mins ago
smci
1,090912
asked 23 hours ago
DLSM
11914
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show 3 more comments
up vote
23
down vote
favorite
My son is trying to return from Canada to the U.S. He is a U.S. citizen. He lost his passport at the airport. He has scanned a copy of his birth certificate and passport on his laptop. They will not allow him to board a flight to the U.S. What can we do?
passports us-citizens lost-documents
edited 22 mins ago
smci
1,090912
asked 23 hours ago
DLSM
11914
New contributor
DLSM is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
39
Go to a consulate and get a new one ?
– Max
22 hours ago
14
Alternatively he can try and come by road. The border patrol will be able to verify his citizenship. Getting an emergency passport however is preferred.
– Honorary World Citizen
22 hours ago
6
What airport is he flying from? At airports with pre-clearance he should be able to make his case directly to a CBP officer exactly as if he was arriving in the US. Unless he lost his passport somewhere between preclearance and boarding? In that case he doesn't need a passport, a drivers license should be enough.
– jcaron
22 hours ago
10
Also, if he lost the passport at the airport, there's a good chance he forgot it at security, or at a check-in desk, so he should be able to find it. He should approach an airport information desk to ask for assistance, they probably have his passport set aside somewhere.
– jcaron
21 hours ago
3
@jcaron Canada is requiring people to use original government-issued ID to board planes. When I was there a couple of months ago, I had to show my passport to board several domestic flights. They made a big show of announcing that we had to present the ID at the gate with our boarding passes. Perhaps I could have used my US driver's license; I didn't try. But there's no mention in the question of the son having a driver's license.
– phoog
20 hours ago
 |Â
show 3 more comments
up vote
23
down vote
favorite
up vote
23
down vote
favorite
My son is trying to return from Canada to the U.S. He is a U.S. citizen. He lost his passport at the airport. He has scanned a copy of his birth certificate and passport on his laptop. They will not allow him to board a flight to the U.S. What can we do?
passports us-citizens lost-documents
edited 22 mins ago
smci
1,090912
asked 23 hours ago
DLSM
11914
New contributor
DLSM is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
My son is trying to return from Canada to the U.S. He is a U.S. citizen. He lost his passport at the airport. He has scanned a copy of his birth certificate and passport on his laptop. They will not allow him to board a flight to the U.S. What can we do?
passports us-citizens lost-documents
passports us-citizens lost-documents
edited 22 mins ago
smci
1,090912
asked 23 hours ago
DLSM
11914
New contributor
DLSM is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
edited 22 mins ago
smci
1,090912
asked 23 hours ago
DLSM
11914
New contributor
DLSM is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
edited 22 mins ago
smci
1,090912
edited 22 mins ago
smci
1,090912
edited 22 mins ago
smci
1,090912
1,090912
asked 23 hours ago
DLSM
11914
New contributor
DLSM is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
asked 23 hours ago
DLSM
11914
asked 23 hours ago
DLSM
11914
11914
New contributor
DLSM is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
New contributor
DLSM is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
DLSM is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
39
Go to a consulate and get a new one ?
– Max
22 hours ago
14
Alternatively he can try and come by road. The border patrol will be able to verify his citizenship. Getting an emergency passport however is preferred.
– Honorary World Citizen
22 hours ago
6
What airport is he flying from? At airports with pre-clearance he should be able to make his case directly to a CBP officer exactly as if he was arriving in the US. Unless he lost his passport somewhere between preclearance and boarding? In that case he doesn't need a passport, a drivers license should be enough.
– jcaron
22 hours ago
10
Also, if he lost the passport at the airport, there's a good chance he forgot it at security, or at a check-in desk, so he should be able to find it. He should approach an airport information desk to ask for assistance, they probably have his passport set aside somewhere.
– jcaron
21 hours ago
3
@jcaron Canada is requiring people to use original government-issued ID to board planes. When I was there a couple of months ago, I had to show my passport to board several domestic flights. They made a big show of announcing that we had to present the ID at the gate with our boarding passes. Perhaps I could have used my US driver's license; I didn't try. But there's no mention in the question of the son having a driver's license.
– phoog
20 hours ago
 |Â
show 3 more comments
39
Go to a consulate and get a new one ?
– Max
22 hours ago
14
Alternatively he can try and come by road. The border patrol will be able to verify his citizenship. Getting an emergency passport however is preferred.
– Honorary World Citizen
22 hours ago
6
What airport is he flying from? At airports with pre-clearance he should be able to make his case directly to a CBP officer exactly as if he was arriving in the US. Unless he lost his passport somewhere between preclearance and boarding? In that case he doesn't need a passport, a drivers license should be enough.
– jcaron
22 hours ago
10
Also, if he lost the passport at the airport, there's a good chance he forgot it at security, or at a check-in desk, so he should be able to find it. He should approach an airport information desk to ask for assistance, they probably have his passport set aside somewhere.
– jcaron
21 hours ago
3
@jcaron Canada is requiring people to use original government-issued ID to board planes. When I was there a couple of months ago, I had to show my passport to board several domestic flights. They made a big show of announcing that we had to present the ID at the gate with our boarding passes. Perhaps I could have used my US driver's license; I didn't try. But there's no mention in the question of the son having a driver's license.
– phoog
20 hours ago
39
39
Go to a consulate and get a new one ?
– Max
22 hours ago
Go to a consulate and get a new one ?
– Max
22 hours ago
14
14
Alternatively he can try and come by road. The border patrol will be able to verify his citizenship. Getting an emergency passport however is preferred.
– Honorary World Citizen
22 hours ago
Alternatively he can try and come by road. The border patrol will be able to verify his citizenship. Getting an emergency passport however is preferred.
– Honorary World Citizen
22 hours ago
6
6
What airport is he flying from? At airports with pre-clearance he should be able to make his case directly to a CBP officer exactly as if he was arriving in the US. Unless he lost his passport somewhere between preclearance and boarding? In that case he doesn't need a passport, a drivers license should be enough.
– jcaron
22 hours ago
What airport is he flying from? At airports with pre-clearance he should be able to make his case directly to a CBP officer exactly as if he was arriving in the US. Unless he lost his passport somewhere between preclearance and boarding? In that case he doesn't need a passport, a drivers license should be enough.
– jcaron
22 hours ago
10
10
Also, if he lost the passport at the airport, there's a good chance he forgot it at security, or at a check-in desk, so he should be able to find it. He should approach an airport information desk to ask for assistance, they probably have his passport set aside somewhere.
– jcaron
21 hours ago
Also, if he lost the passport at the airport, there's a good chance he forgot it at security, or at a check-in desk, so he should be able to find it. He should approach an airport information desk to ask for assistance, they probably have his passport set aside somewhere.
– jcaron
21 hours ago
3
3
@jcaron Canada is requiring people to use original government-issued ID to board planes. When I was there a couple of months ago, I had to show my passport to board several domestic flights. They made a big show of announcing that we had to present the ID at the gate with our boarding passes. Perhaps I could have used my US driver's license; I didn't try. But there's no mention in the question of the son having a driver's license.
– phoog
20 hours ago
@jcaron Canada is requiring people to use original government-issued ID to board planes. When I was there a couple of months ago, I had to show my passport to board several domestic flights. They made a big show of announcing that we had to present the ID at the gate with our boarding passes. Perhaps I could have used my US driver's license; I didn't try. But there's no mention in the question of the son having a driver's license.
– phoog
20 hours ago
 |Â
show 3 more comments
3 Answers
3
active
oldest
votes
up vote
48
down vote
Since this is a straightforward 'US passport lost abroad question', this is what you should do, the easiest method:
What should a U.S. citizen do if his/her passport is lost/stolen abroad?
You will have to replace the passport before returning to the United
States. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance.
Contact information for U.S. embassies and consulates is also
available in our country information pages. Ask to speak to the
Consular Section to report your passport lost or stolen. If you have
been the victim of a serious crime, be sure to tell a consular officer
about it as soon as possible so we can provide appropriate assistance.
If you are scheduled to leave the foreign country shortly, please
provide our consular staff with the details of your travel. We will
make every effort to assist you quickly. You will also be directed to
where you can obtain a photo for your replacement passport. In most
cases, you will need to get a passport photo prior to your arrival at
the consular section.
If you are notified by a relative or friend traveling abroad that
his/her U.S. passport has been lost/stolen, you may wish to contact
the Office of Overseas Citizens Services, U.S. Department of State in
Washington, D.C, at 1-888-407-4747. That office will be able to help
you put your friend or loved one in touch with the closest U.S.
embassy or consulate. Your relative/friend must apply in person for a
new passport at the U.S. embassy or consulate
source
The documentation requirements for US citizens to enter the US are mentioned on the CBP website.
- If you're traveling by air you definitely need your passport. Or a NEXUS card if coming from Canada.
- For land or sea travel you can use other alternates: if he is under 15 he can use his original birth/naturalization certificate.
EDIT:
For your ease the Ottawa Embassy has the following contact details:
U.S. Embassy Ottawa
490 Sussex Drive Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 1G8 Canada
Telephone: +(613) 688-5335
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(613)238-5335
Fax: +(613) 688-3082
OttawaACS@state.gov
For other consulates go to this link
answered 22 hours ago
Newton
4,08341638
4
I would generally agree that this is the right way to go, but given that OP is in Canada simply going through the land border would be a lot easier and faster.
– JonathanReez♦
15 hours ago
1
+61 is Australia says Wikipedia, so I strongly suspect that the phone numbers have been mangled somehow. However, I am unable to access the link, so can't check where this happened.
– Î± CVn
1 hour ago
@JonathanReez I'm not from Canada or US so I don't know how it works over there, but can you cross the border without any ID? I know they can't possibly check everyone, but still, isn't it actually required?
– ChatterOne
57 mins ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
14
down vote
There are two issues here:
Will the Canadians let you board an international flight without a passport or NEXUS card. The answer here is pretty definitely no.
Will USA immigration let you in without a passport or other government-issued documentation such as a REAL-ID driver's license or NEXUS card: Usually, but expect a thorough and perhaps delayed vetting process.
Given the latter, your best bet if you can't get an emergency passport is to go to a land crossing and try to cross the border there. Bring as much documentation as you can. Expect a very long delay so eat a hearty meal and go to the bathroom before presenting yourself (and carry snacks, water, and a physical book to read). Sometimes they'll let you through in 15 minutes, but these days it might take much longer.
answered 16 hours ago
RoboKaren
10.3k12862
add a comment |Â
up vote
11
down vote
As a US citizen you cannot be denied entry to the United States. Therefore the fastest way of getting back home is to simply present yourself at a land crossing, where CBP officials will be forced to accommodate your request to enter the country, regardless of whether or not you have your passport. Having a scanned copy of your birth certificate and passport should be sufficient, but bring in any additional documentation you might have to prove your identity, such as your drivers license or another form of State ID.
The only tricky question is how to actually reach the US border. If you have a car available you can simply drive yourself to the border. Second best option would be to ask someone for a favour and have them drop you off. Finally, you can use public transport to reach the US - Travel.SE provides a fantastic guide listing all the options for doing so.
Once you've crossed the border and reached the US you would potentially have an issue with getting on a plane back home, as the TSA usually requires you to have government-issued ID to get on a domestic flight. But there are likewise workarounds for people who have lost their ID, so it can be taken care of as well.
answered 15 hours ago
JonathanReez♦
46.7k36218467
1
Just to add, hitch-hiking in Canada is a fairly safe way to reach the border.
– axsvl77
12 hours ago
1
They can’t deny a USA citizen entry but they can hold people who they suspect don’t have American citizenship for an indefinite amount of time. Without authenticated ID papers, your as good as stateless until the ICO is satisfied.
– RoboKaren
9 hours ago
@RoboKaren the OP mentioned loosing password, not all other ID documents. There's no need to prepare for zombie outbreak as long as it is not explicitely mentioned in the question.
– Rg7x gW6a cQ3g
2 hours ago
add a comment |Â
3 Answers
3
active
oldest
votes
3 Answers
3
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
up vote
48
down vote
Since this is a straightforward 'US passport lost abroad question', this is what you should do, the easiest method:
What should a U.S. citizen do if his/her passport is lost/stolen abroad?
You will have to replace the passport before returning to the United
States. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance.
Contact information for U.S. embassies and consulates is also
available in our country information pages. Ask to speak to the
Consular Section to report your passport lost or stolen. If you have
been the victim of a serious crime, be sure to tell a consular officer
about it as soon as possible so we can provide appropriate assistance.
If you are scheduled to leave the foreign country shortly, please
provide our consular staff with the details of your travel. We will
make every effort to assist you quickly. You will also be directed to
where you can obtain a photo for your replacement passport. In most
cases, you will need to get a passport photo prior to your arrival at
the consular section.
If you are notified by a relative or friend traveling abroad that
his/her U.S. passport has been lost/stolen, you may wish to contact
the Office of Overseas Citizens Services, U.S. Department of State in
Washington, D.C, at 1-888-407-4747. That office will be able to help
you put your friend or loved one in touch with the closest U.S.
embassy or consulate. Your relative/friend must apply in person for a
new passport at the U.S. embassy or consulate
source
The documentation requirements for US citizens to enter the US are mentioned on the CBP website.
- If you're traveling by air you definitely need your passport. Or a NEXUS card if coming from Canada.
- For land or sea travel you can use other alternates: if he is under 15 he can use his original birth/naturalization certificate.
EDIT:
For your ease the Ottawa Embassy has the following contact details:
U.S. Embassy Ottawa
490 Sussex Drive Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 1G8 Canada
Telephone: +(613) 688-5335
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(613)238-5335
Fax: +(613) 688-3082
OttawaACS@state.gov
For other consulates go to this link
answered 22 hours ago
Newton
4,08341638
4
I would generally agree that this is the right way to go, but given that OP is in Canada simply going through the land border would be a lot easier and faster.
– JonathanReez♦
15 hours ago
1
+61 is Australia says Wikipedia, so I strongly suspect that the phone numbers have been mangled somehow. However, I am unable to access the link, so can't check where this happened.
– Î± CVn
1 hour ago
@JonathanReez I'm not from Canada or US so I don't know how it works over there, but can you cross the border without any ID? I know they can't possibly check everyone, but still, isn't it actually required?
– ChatterOne
57 mins ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
48
down vote
Since this is a straightforward 'US passport lost abroad question', this is what you should do, the easiest method:
What should a U.S. citizen do if his/her passport is lost/stolen abroad?
You will have to replace the passport before returning to the United
States. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance.
Contact information for U.S. embassies and consulates is also
available in our country information pages. Ask to speak to the
Consular Section to report your passport lost or stolen. If you have
been the victim of a serious crime, be sure to tell a consular officer
about it as soon as possible so we can provide appropriate assistance.
If you are scheduled to leave the foreign country shortly, please
provide our consular staff with the details of your travel. We will
make every effort to assist you quickly. You will also be directed to
where you can obtain a photo for your replacement passport. In most
cases, you will need to get a passport photo prior to your arrival at
the consular section.
If you are notified by a relative or friend traveling abroad that
his/her U.S. passport has been lost/stolen, you may wish to contact
the Office of Overseas Citizens Services, U.S. Department of State in
Washington, D.C, at 1-888-407-4747. That office will be able to help
you put your friend or loved one in touch with the closest U.S.
embassy or consulate. Your relative/friend must apply in person for a
new passport at the U.S. embassy or consulate
source
The documentation requirements for US citizens to enter the US are mentioned on the CBP website.
- If you're traveling by air you definitely need your passport. Or a NEXUS card if coming from Canada.
- For land or sea travel you can use other alternates: if he is under 15 he can use his original birth/naturalization certificate.
EDIT:
For your ease the Ottawa Embassy has the following contact details:
U.S. Embassy Ottawa
490 Sussex Drive Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 1G8 Canada
Telephone: +(613) 688-5335
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(613)238-5335
Fax: +(613) 688-3082
OttawaACS@state.gov
For other consulates go to this link
answered 22 hours ago
Newton
4,08341638
4
I would generally agree that this is the right way to go, but given that OP is in Canada simply going through the land border would be a lot easier and faster.
– JonathanReez♦
15 hours ago
1
+61 is Australia says Wikipedia, so I strongly suspect that the phone numbers have been mangled somehow. However, I am unable to access the link, so can't check where this happened.
– Î± CVn
1 hour ago
@JonathanReez I'm not from Canada or US so I don't know how it works over there, but can you cross the border without any ID? I know they can't possibly check everyone, but still, isn't it actually required?
– ChatterOne
57 mins ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
48
down vote
up vote
48
down vote
Since this is a straightforward 'US passport lost abroad question', this is what you should do, the easiest method:
What should a U.S. citizen do if his/her passport is lost/stolen abroad?
You will have to replace the passport before returning to the United
States. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance.
Contact information for U.S. embassies and consulates is also
available in our country information pages. Ask to speak to the
Consular Section to report your passport lost or stolen. If you have
been the victim of a serious crime, be sure to tell a consular officer
about it as soon as possible so we can provide appropriate assistance.
If you are scheduled to leave the foreign country shortly, please
provide our consular staff with the details of your travel. We will
make every effort to assist you quickly. You will also be directed to
where you can obtain a photo for your replacement passport. In most
cases, you will need to get a passport photo prior to your arrival at
the consular section.
If you are notified by a relative or friend traveling abroad that
his/her U.S. passport has been lost/stolen, you may wish to contact
the Office of Overseas Citizens Services, U.S. Department of State in
Washington, D.C, at 1-888-407-4747. That office will be able to help
you put your friend or loved one in touch with the closest U.S.
embassy or consulate. Your relative/friend must apply in person for a
new passport at the U.S. embassy or consulate
source
The documentation requirements for US citizens to enter the US are mentioned on the CBP website.
- If you're traveling by air you definitely need your passport. Or a NEXUS card if coming from Canada.
- For land or sea travel you can use other alternates: if he is under 15 he can use his original birth/naturalization certificate.
EDIT:
For your ease the Ottawa Embassy has the following contact details:
U.S. Embassy Ottawa
490 Sussex Drive Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 1G8 Canada
Telephone: +(613) 688-5335
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(613)238-5335
Fax: +(613) 688-3082
OttawaACS@state.gov
For other consulates go to this link
answered 22 hours ago
Newton
4,08341638
Since this is a straightforward 'US passport lost abroad question', this is what you should do, the easiest method:
What should a U.S. citizen do if his/her passport is lost/stolen abroad?
You will have to replace the passport before returning to the United
States. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance.
Contact information for U.S. embassies and consulates is also
available in our country information pages. Ask to speak to the
Consular Section to report your passport lost or stolen. If you have
been the victim of a serious crime, be sure to tell a consular officer
about it as soon as possible so we can provide appropriate assistance.
If you are scheduled to leave the foreign country shortly, please
provide our consular staff with the details of your travel. We will
make every effort to assist you quickly. You will also be directed to
where you can obtain a photo for your replacement passport. In most
cases, you will need to get a passport photo prior to your arrival at
the consular section.
If you are notified by a relative or friend traveling abroad that
his/her U.S. passport has been lost/stolen, you may wish to contact
the Office of Overseas Citizens Services, U.S. Department of State in
Washington, D.C, at 1-888-407-4747. That office will be able to help
you put your friend or loved one in touch with the closest U.S.
embassy or consulate. Your relative/friend must apply in person for a
new passport at the U.S. embassy or consulate
source
The documentation requirements for US citizens to enter the US are mentioned on the CBP website.
- If you're traveling by air you definitely need your passport. Or a NEXUS card if coming from Canada.
- For land or sea travel you can use other alternates: if he is under 15 he can use his original birth/naturalization certificate.
EDIT:
For your ease the Ottawa Embassy has the following contact details:
U.S. Embassy Ottawa
490 Sussex Drive Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 1G8 Canada
Telephone: +(613) 688-5335
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(613)238-5335
Fax: +(613) 688-3082
OttawaACS@state.gov
For other consulates go to this link
answered 22 hours ago
Newton
4,08341638
edited 21 hours ago
answered 22 hours ago
Newton
4,08341638
answered 22 hours ago
Newton
4,08341638
answered 22 hours ago
Newton
4,08341638
4,08341638
4
I would generally agree that this is the right way to go, but given that OP is in Canada simply going through the land border would be a lot easier and faster.
– JonathanReez♦
15 hours ago
1
+61 is Australia says Wikipedia, so I strongly suspect that the phone numbers have been mangled somehow. However, I am unable to access the link, so can't check where this happened.
– Î± CVn
1 hour ago
@JonathanReez I'm not from Canada or US so I don't know how it works over there, but can you cross the border without any ID? I know they can't possibly check everyone, but still, isn't it actually required?
– ChatterOne
57 mins ago
add a comment |Â
4
I would generally agree that this is the right way to go, but given that OP is in Canada simply going through the land border would be a lot easier and faster.
– JonathanReez♦
15 hours ago
1
+61 is Australia says Wikipedia, so I strongly suspect that the phone numbers have been mangled somehow. However, I am unable to access the link, so can't check where this happened.
– Î± CVn
1 hour ago
@JonathanReez I'm not from Canada or US so I don't know how it works over there, but can you cross the border without any ID? I know they can't possibly check everyone, but still, isn't it actually required?
– ChatterOne
57 mins ago
4
4
I would generally agree that this is the right way to go, but given that OP is in Canada simply going through the land border would be a lot easier and faster.
– JonathanReez♦
15 hours ago
I would generally agree that this is the right way to go, but given that OP is in Canada simply going through the land border would be a lot easier and faster.
– JonathanReez♦
15 hours ago
1
1
+61 is Australia says Wikipedia, so I strongly suspect that the phone numbers have been mangled somehow. However, I am unable to access the link, so can't check where this happened.
– Î± CVn
1 hour ago
+61 is Australia says Wikipedia, so I strongly suspect that the phone numbers have been mangled somehow. However, I am unable to access the link, so can't check where this happened.
– Î± CVn
1 hour ago
@JonathanReez I'm not from Canada or US so I don't know how it works over there, but can you cross the border without any ID? I know they can't possibly check everyone, but still, isn't it actually required?
– ChatterOne
57 mins ago
@JonathanReez I'm not from Canada or US so I don't know how it works over there, but can you cross the border without any ID? I know they can't possibly check everyone, but still, isn't it actually required?
– ChatterOne
57 mins ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
14
down vote
There are two issues here:
Will the Canadians let you board an international flight without a passport or NEXUS card. The answer here is pretty definitely no.
Will USA immigration let you in without a passport or other government-issued documentation such as a REAL-ID driver's license or NEXUS card: Usually, but expect a thorough and perhaps delayed vetting process.
Given the latter, your best bet if you can't get an emergency passport is to go to a land crossing and try to cross the border there. Bring as much documentation as you can. Expect a very long delay so eat a hearty meal and go to the bathroom before presenting yourself (and carry snacks, water, and a physical book to read). Sometimes they'll let you through in 15 minutes, but these days it might take much longer.
answered 16 hours ago
RoboKaren
10.3k12862
add a comment |Â
up vote
14
down vote
There are two issues here:
Will the Canadians let you board an international flight without a passport or NEXUS card. The answer here is pretty definitely no.
Will USA immigration let you in without a passport or other government-issued documentation such as a REAL-ID driver's license or NEXUS card: Usually, but expect a thorough and perhaps delayed vetting process.
Given the latter, your best bet if you can't get an emergency passport is to go to a land crossing and try to cross the border there. Bring as much documentation as you can. Expect a very long delay so eat a hearty meal and go to the bathroom before presenting yourself (and carry snacks, water, and a physical book to read). Sometimes they'll let you through in 15 minutes, but these days it might take much longer.
answered 16 hours ago
RoboKaren
10.3k12862
add a comment |Â
up vote
14
down vote
up vote
14
down vote
There are two issues here:
Will the Canadians let you board an international flight without a passport or NEXUS card. The answer here is pretty definitely no.
Will USA immigration let you in without a passport or other government-issued documentation such as a REAL-ID driver's license or NEXUS card: Usually, but expect a thorough and perhaps delayed vetting process.
Given the latter, your best bet if you can't get an emergency passport is to go to a land crossing and try to cross the border there. Bring as much documentation as you can. Expect a very long delay so eat a hearty meal and go to the bathroom before presenting yourself (and carry snacks, water, and a physical book to read). Sometimes they'll let you through in 15 minutes, but these days it might take much longer.
answered 16 hours ago
RoboKaren
10.3k12862
There are two issues here:
Will the Canadians let you board an international flight without a passport or NEXUS card. The answer here is pretty definitely no.
Will USA immigration let you in without a passport or other government-issued documentation such as a REAL-ID driver's license or NEXUS card: Usually, but expect a thorough and perhaps delayed vetting process.
Given the latter, your best bet if you can't get an emergency passport is to go to a land crossing and try to cross the border there. Bring as much documentation as you can. Expect a very long delay so eat a hearty meal and go to the bathroom before presenting yourself (and carry snacks, water, and a physical book to read). Sometimes they'll let you through in 15 minutes, but these days it might take much longer.
answered 16 hours ago
RoboKaren
10.3k12862
answered 16 hours ago
RoboKaren
10.3k12862
answered 16 hours ago
RoboKaren
10.3k12862
answered 16 hours ago
RoboKaren
10.3k12862
10.3k12862
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
11
down vote
As a US citizen you cannot be denied entry to the United States. Therefore the fastest way of getting back home is to simply present yourself at a land crossing, where CBP officials will be forced to accommodate your request to enter the country, regardless of whether or not you have your passport. Having a scanned copy of your birth certificate and passport should be sufficient, but bring in any additional documentation you might have to prove your identity, such as your drivers license or another form of State ID.
The only tricky question is how to actually reach the US border. If you have a car available you can simply drive yourself to the border. Second best option would be to ask someone for a favour and have them drop you off. Finally, you can use public transport to reach the US - Travel.SE provides a fantastic guide listing all the options for doing so.
Once you've crossed the border and reached the US you would potentially have an issue with getting on a plane back home, as the TSA usually requires you to have government-issued ID to get on a domestic flight. But there are likewise workarounds for people who have lost their ID, so it can be taken care of as well.
answered 15 hours ago
JonathanReez♦
46.7k36218467
1
Just to add, hitch-hiking in Canada is a fairly safe way to reach the border.
– axsvl77
12 hours ago
1
They can’t deny a USA citizen entry but they can hold people who they suspect don’t have American citizenship for an indefinite amount of time. Without authenticated ID papers, your as good as stateless until the ICO is satisfied.
– RoboKaren
9 hours ago
@RoboKaren the OP mentioned loosing password, not all other ID documents. There's no need to prepare for zombie outbreak as long as it is not explicitely mentioned in the question.
– Rg7x gW6a cQ3g
2 hours ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
11
down vote
As a US citizen you cannot be denied entry to the United States. Therefore the fastest way of getting back home is to simply present yourself at a land crossing, where CBP officials will be forced to accommodate your request to enter the country, regardless of whether or not you have your passport. Having a scanned copy of your birth certificate and passport should be sufficient, but bring in any additional documentation you might have to prove your identity, such as your drivers license or another form of State ID.
The only tricky question is how to actually reach the US border. If you have a car available you can simply drive yourself to the border. Second best option would be to ask someone for a favour and have them drop you off. Finally, you can use public transport to reach the US - Travel.SE provides a fantastic guide listing all the options for doing so.
Once you've crossed the border and reached the US you would potentially have an issue with getting on a plane back home, as the TSA usually requires you to have government-issued ID to get on a domestic flight. But there are likewise workarounds for people who have lost their ID, so it can be taken care of as well.
answered 15 hours ago
JonathanReez♦
46.7k36218467
1
Just to add, hitch-hiking in Canada is a fairly safe way to reach the border.
– axsvl77
12 hours ago
1
They can’t deny a USA citizen entry but they can hold people who they suspect don’t have American citizenship for an indefinite amount of time. Without authenticated ID papers, your as good as stateless until the ICO is satisfied.
– RoboKaren
9 hours ago
@RoboKaren the OP mentioned loosing password, not all other ID documents. There's no need to prepare for zombie outbreak as long as it is not explicitely mentioned in the question.
– Rg7x gW6a cQ3g
2 hours ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
11
down vote
up vote
11
down vote
As a US citizen you cannot be denied entry to the United States. Therefore the fastest way of getting back home is to simply present yourself at a land crossing, where CBP officials will be forced to accommodate your request to enter the country, regardless of whether or not you have your passport. Having a scanned copy of your birth certificate and passport should be sufficient, but bring in any additional documentation you might have to prove your identity, such as your drivers license or another form of State ID.
The only tricky question is how to actually reach the US border. If you have a car available you can simply drive yourself to the border. Second best option would be to ask someone for a favour and have them drop you off. Finally, you can use public transport to reach the US - Travel.SE provides a fantastic guide listing all the options for doing so.
Once you've crossed the border and reached the US you would potentially have an issue with getting on a plane back home, as the TSA usually requires you to have government-issued ID to get on a domestic flight. But there are likewise workarounds for people who have lost their ID, so it can be taken care of as well.
answered 15 hours ago
JonathanReez♦
46.7k36218467
As a US citizen you cannot be denied entry to the United States. Therefore the fastest way of getting back home is to simply present yourself at a land crossing, where CBP officials will be forced to accommodate your request to enter the country, regardless of whether or not you have your passport. Having a scanned copy of your birth certificate and passport should be sufficient, but bring in any additional documentation you might have to prove your identity, such as your drivers license or another form of State ID.
The only tricky question is how to actually reach the US border. If you have a car available you can simply drive yourself to the border. Second best option would be to ask someone for a favour and have them drop you off. Finally, you can use public transport to reach the US - Travel.SE provides a fantastic guide listing all the options for doing so.
Once you've crossed the border and reached the US you would potentially have an issue with getting on a plane back home, as the TSA usually requires you to have government-issued ID to get on a domestic flight. But there are likewise workarounds for people who have lost their ID, so it can be taken care of as well.
answered 15 hours ago
JonathanReez♦
46.7k36218467
answered 15 hours ago
JonathanReez♦
46.7k36218467
answered 15 hours ago
JonathanReez♦
46.7k36218467
answered 15 hours ago
JonathanReez♦
46.7k36218467
46.7k36218467
1
Just to add, hitch-hiking in Canada is a fairly safe way to reach the border.
– axsvl77
12 hours ago
1
They can’t deny a USA citizen entry but they can hold people who they suspect don’t have American citizenship for an indefinite amount of time. Without authenticated ID papers, your as good as stateless until the ICO is satisfied.
– RoboKaren
9 hours ago
@RoboKaren the OP mentioned loosing password, not all other ID documents. There's no need to prepare for zombie outbreak as long as it is not explicitely mentioned in the question.
– Rg7x gW6a cQ3g
2 hours ago
add a comment |Â
1
Just to add, hitch-hiking in Canada is a fairly safe way to reach the border.
– axsvl77
12 hours ago
1
They can’t deny a USA citizen entry but they can hold people who they suspect don’t have American citizenship for an indefinite amount of time. Without authenticated ID papers, your as good as stateless until the ICO is satisfied.
– RoboKaren
9 hours ago
@RoboKaren the OP mentioned loosing password, not all other ID documents. There's no need to prepare for zombie outbreak as long as it is not explicitely mentioned in the question.
– Rg7x gW6a cQ3g
2 hours ago
1
1
Just to add, hitch-hiking in Canada is a fairly safe way to reach the border.
– axsvl77
12 hours ago
Just to add, hitch-hiking in Canada is a fairly safe way to reach the border.
– axsvl77
12 hours ago
1
1
They can’t deny a USA citizen entry but they can hold people who they suspect don’t have American citizenship for an indefinite amount of time. Without authenticated ID papers, your as good as stateless until the ICO is satisfied.
– RoboKaren
9 hours ago
They can’t deny a USA citizen entry but they can hold people who they suspect don’t have American citizenship for an indefinite amount of time. Without authenticated ID papers, your as good as stateless until the ICO is satisfied.
– RoboKaren
9 hours ago
@RoboKaren the OP mentioned loosing password, not all other ID documents. There's no need to prepare for zombie outbreak as long as it is not explicitely mentioned in the question.
– Rg7x gW6a cQ3g
2 hours ago
@RoboKaren the OP mentioned loosing password, not all other ID documents. There's no need to prepare for zombie outbreak as long as it is not explicitely mentioned in the question.
– Rg7x gW6a cQ3g
2 hours ago
add a comment |Â
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39
Go to a consulate and get a new one ?
– Max
22 hours ago
14
Alternatively he can try and come by road. The border patrol will be able to verify his citizenship. Getting an emergency passport however is preferred.
– Honorary World Citizen
22 hours ago
6
What airport is he flying from? At airports with pre-clearance he should be able to make his case directly to a CBP officer exactly as if he was arriving in the US. Unless he lost his passport somewhere between preclearance and boarding? In that case he doesn't need a passport, a drivers license should be enough.
– jcaron
22 hours ago
10
Also, if he lost the passport at the airport, there's a good chance he forgot it at security, or at a check-in desk, so he should be able to find it. He should approach an airport information desk to ask for assistance, they probably have his passport set aside somewhere.
– jcaron
21 hours ago
3
@jcaron Canada is requiring people to use original government-issued ID to board planes. When I was there a couple of months ago, I had to show my passport to board several domestic flights. They made a big show of announcing that we had to present the ID at the gate with our boarding passes. Perhaps I could have used my US driver's license; I didn't try. But there's no mention in the question of the son having a driver's license.
– phoog
20 hours ago