Loss of the Foreign Passport Before Completion of Residence or Citizenship Application Processing in Germany: Alternative Steps
Losing your foreign passport while waiting for a decision on your residence or citizenship application can cause worry and complications, but it is not the end of the process. There are alternative steps that can help you overcome this situation without your case being completely blocked.
Alternative steps if you lose your foreign passport
Inform the local police immediately
File an official report about the loss of your passport (Diebstahl oder Verlustanzeige – theft or loss report).
Obtain a copy of the police report, as it is essential for submission to the authorities.
Contact your country’s embassy in Germany
Inform your embassy in Germany about the loss of your passport and request the issuance of a temporary travel document or a replacement passport.
The process of obtaining a replacement passport may take from a few days to several weeks, depending on the embassy.
Inform the immigration or citizenship office
Notify the competent immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) or citizenship/naturalization office about the loss of your passport and submit a copy of the police loss report.
Ask which alternative documents are accepted temporarily as proof of identity.
Use temporary alternative documents
In some cases, the authorities may accept a national ID card, a birth certificate, or a temporary travel document issued by your embassy as a temporary substitute.
It is recommended to coordinate closely with the immigration office to avoid suspension of processing.
Update your file when you receive the new passport
Once you obtain a new passport, submit a copy of it to the relevant authorities so that your file can be updated.
Important tips
Always keep copies of your important documents to make it easier to deal with emergencies.
React quickly when documents are lost to avoid delays in ongoing procedures.
Consult an immigration lawyer if you encounter difficulties in the process or if important deadlines are at risk.
Conclusion
The loss of your foreign passport before the completion of your residence or citizenship application is not a final obstacle. By reporting the loss to the police, coordinating with your embassy, and informing the immigration or citizenship office, while providing temporary alternative documents, you can ensure that your case continues to be processed without unnecessary interruption.
The website’s editorial and author team strives to provide accurate information through thorough research and consultation of multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some details may be uncertain or not fully verified. Therefore, the information contained in the articles should be considered an initial, non-binding reference, and you should always refer to the competent authorities for definitive and officially confirmed information.
