Losing a passport while living or working abroad can be stressful, especially for Filipino expatriates in Saudi Arabia. If you have lost your Philippine passport, it is important to report the loss properly and follow the Philippine Embassy’s requirements before applying for a replacement.
This guide explains the general process for Filipino passport holders in Saudi Arabia.
What to Do If You Lose Your Philippine Passport
1. Report the Lost Passport
The first step is to report your lost passport to the appropriate Saudi authorities/Jawazat and obtain an official Lost Passport Report.
According to the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh, the report of lost passport from Jawazat should have an English translation.
If you have a photocopy or photograph of your lost passport, keep it safely because it may be required during your application. (Riyadh Philippine Embassy)
2. Prepare the Required Documents
For replacement of a lost Philippine ePassport, the Philippine Embassy lists the following requirements:
- Personal appearance
- Photocopy of the lost passport, if available
- Valid Iqama or other acceptable Saudi/host-government identification showing Philippine citizenship
- Jawazat Report of Lost Passport with English translation
- Affidavit of Loss in English
- Duly accomplished Philippine ePassport Application Form
- Original and photocopies of IDs and supporting documents
- Any additional documents that may be requested by the Department or Embassy
The Embassy may request additional supporting documents when necessary for verification of identity, citizenship or other details. (Riyadh Philippine Embassy)
3. Prepare an Affidavit of Loss
An Affidavit of Loss is an important part of the lost-passport application.
The Philippine Embassy in Riyadh provides an Affidavit of Loss of Passport among its downloadable consular forms. Applicants should follow the Embassy’s current instructions regarding preparation, notarization and submission of the affidavit. (Riyadh Philippine Embassy)
4. Submit Your Application to the Philippine Mission
After preparing the required documents, submit your lost-passport application according to the current instructions of the appropriate Philippine Foreign Service Post in Saudi Arabia.
Applicants should check the latest appointment, submission and outreach arrangements before travelling to the Embassy or an authorized service location.
The Embassy also conducts consular outreach activities in different cities, so applicants should check the latest official announcements for available services and schedules. (Riyadh Philippine Embassy)
5. Waiting Period for Lost Passport Applications
Lost-passport applications are treated differently from ordinary passport renewals because they require additional assessment and verification.
The Philippine Embassy in Riyadh states that there is a 15-working-day waiting period before approval of a lost-passport application. (Riyadh Philippine Embassy)
Applicants should therefore avoid making urgent travel arrangements based on an assumption that the replacement passport will be available immediately.
Passport Replacement Fees
The Philippine Embassy’s published fee schedule lists:
- Lost Philippine ePassport: SAR 600
- Affidavit/Notarial fee: SAR 100
- Total listed amount: SAR 700
The Embassy advises applicants to confirm the exact current fee before applying because consular fees and procedures can change. (Riyadh Philippine Embassy)
What If You Find Your Passport After Reporting It Lost?
Once a passport has been officially declared lost, it should not be used even if it is later found. Applicants should follow the instructions of the Philippine authorities regarding the cancelled passport. (Riyadh Philippine Embassy)
Important Advice for Filipino Expats
Before visiting the Philippine Embassy or Consulate, make sure you have:
- Your original Iqama
- A photocopy/photo of your lost passport, if available
- Jawazat Lost Passport Report
- English translation of the report
- Affidavit of Loss in English
- Completed passport application form
- Original and photocopies of your supporting IDs
- The required passport and notarial fees
Keep copies or photographs of your important documents whenever possible. This can make the replacement process easier if your original passport is lost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my lost passport if I find it later?
No. Once a passport has been declared lost, it should not be used. Contact the Philippine authorities and follow their instructions.
Is a police/Jawazat report required?
The Philippine Embassy’s published lost-passport requirements specifically list a Jawazat Report of Lost Passport with English translation. (Riyadh Philippine Embassy)
Do I need to appear personally?
Yes. Personal appearance is listed among the requirements for replacement of a lost Philippine passport. (Riyadh Philippine Embassy)
How long does a lost-passport application take?
The Embassy states that there is a 15-working-day waiting period before approval of the lost-passport application. Passport production and release may require additional time. (Riyadh Philippine Embassy)
Can the requirements change?
Yes. The Philippine Embassy may request additional supporting documents, and fees, appointment procedures and service arrangements can change. Always verify the latest information directly with the Philippine Embassy before visiting.
Final Reminder
If you lose your Philippine passport in Saudi Arabia, do not panic. Report the loss, obtain the required Jawazat report, prepare your Affidavit of Loss and supporting documents, and follow the Philippine Embassy’s current passport replacement procedure.
For the latest requirements, fees and announcements, always check the official Philippine Embassy in Riyadh website.
Official source: Philippine Embassy in Riyadh – Passport Services
This article is for general information only. Requirements, fees, processing times and procedures may change. Applicants should verify the latest information with the Philippine Embassy or the appropriate Philippine Foreign Service Post before applying.
