Shed calm: strategies to follow when misplacing your passport or identity documents
Losing Your Passport and SIN Card: Here's a Fuss-Free Guide on What to Do
No need to fret if you've misplaced your passport and SIN card. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to get your documents back in order, no sweat required.
First things first, if you're confident your passport is somewhere in the house, conduct an extensive search. If it's MIA, then it's time to kick off a personal investigation to find out where it might be hiding. Because let's face it, you don't want some shady character using your documents for personal gain or illegal activities.
To reduce the chances of criminals taking advantage of your misfortune, take immediate action by locking down your bank cards and changing passwords for online services like Gosuslugi. While you might still have your credit card, a slick cyber thief could use your passport to gain access to both your cards and Gosuslugi.
Now it's time to inform the authorities. Head to the nearest police station and file a report of lost or stolen passport. Your place of registration and residence doesn't matter, any police station will do. You'll have to cough up a fine for the loss, but if your passport was stolen, the police will open a criminal case. Either way, you'll receive a receipt confirming your report was accepted. Keep this handy, as it's essential for restoring your passport.
Next, it's time to swap your lost passport for a shiny new one at the Ministry of Internal Affairs for migration issues. Schedule an appointment through the "Gosuslugi" portal for a time that suits you best. When you visit the MVD department, don't forget to bring the following documents:
- A written application filled out on-site on a designated form,
- Two passport-sized photographs,
- The notification card issued by the police,
- A receipt for the paid state fee (currently 1500 rubles),
- A certificate of marriage or divorce (if applicable),
- Birth certificates of children under 14,
- For men - copies of military documents.
Your new passport will be ready within five working days from the date you submit your documents at the MVD department.
Now, don't forget to update your bank, the Pension Fund, your employer, and your health insurance company with your new passport details.
In case of urgent travel or important matters that require a quick resolution before you receive your new passport, you can request a temporary certificate of identity. Request this in your application and attach an extra photograph.
Losing your passport due to carelessness can result in a fine of 100 to 300 rubles under the Russian Federation's Code of Administrative Offenses. The severity of the punishment depends on where the application is submitted. In most cases, you'll receive a warning.
If you've lost your Canadian SIN card along with your passport, don't worry. Reach out to Canadian authorities to report the loss and request a replacement. Unfortunately, you'll need to return to Canada to apply in person. To replace a lost Canadian passport, contact the Canadian Embassy in Moscow for emergency consular assistance, gather necessary documents, and apply for a replacement passport through the prescribed procedures.
Remember, when losing documents abroad, always contact the relevant embassy or consulate for assistance. Gather any required documents, adhere to local procedures, and be prepared for potential return trips to complete the replacement process. Be aware of any existing sanctions or restrictions related to your destination that may impact various processes or travel plans. Stay safe, and good luck on your journey to a new passport!
Important Notes:
- For Canadian passports lost in Russia, contact the Canadian Embassy in Moscow for emergency assistance.
- To replace a lost Canadian SIN card, contact Service Canada and apply in person at a Canadian Service Center.
- Be aware of any sanctions and restrictions related to your destination, as they may affect various processes or travel plans.
- To keep your personal-finance secure, it's crucial to lock down your bank cards and change passwords for online services immediately after losing your passport or SIN card.
- Once you've obtained your replacement passport, don't forget to update your personal-finance details with your bank, the Pension Fund, your employer, and your health insurance company.
