Lost or Stolen Passport Procedures in Saskatchewan

If your passport is lost or stolen in Saskatchewan, immediately file a report with the local municipal police (e.g., Regina or Saskatoon Police), then report the loss online or by phone to the Government of Canada (1-800-567-6868) to invalidate it. For a replacement, you must apply in person at the Passport Canada office in Regina or a Service Canada Centre, providing a completed application, proof of citizenship, photos, ID, police report number, and paying the $260 fee (for adults). Processing takes up to 20 business days for standard service.

Immediate Steps: What to Do in the First Hour

Acting quickly is crucial to prevent identity theft and fraud. Follow this checklist:

1. Secure Your Area: Retrace your steps. Check bags, hotel rooms (e.g., at the Delta Hotels in Saskatoon or Regina), and vehicles thoroughly.
2. Contact Local Police: File a report with the police service in the municipality where the loss/theft occurred. This is your first line of documentation. Example: If lost at Wanuskewin Heritage Park near Saskatoon, contact Saskatoon Police.
3. Federal Reporting: Report the loss to Passport Program immediately to get the passport invalidated globally.
4. Notify Travel Providers: If you have imminent travel, contact your airline (e.g., WestJet, Air Canada) and accommodation.

Local Police Reporting in Saskatchewan

Procedures can vary slightly between urban and rural areas.

Data Point: In 2022, the Regina Police Service recorded over 1,200 incidents of "Lost/Found Property," highlighting the importance of reporting.

Federal Reporting & Passport Invalidation

This is a mandatory national step. Once reported, the passport is added to a global watchlist.

• Online: Use the Government of Canada's online loss reporting service.
• By Phone: Call the Passport Program at 1-800-567-6868 (TTY: 1-866-255-7655).
• In Person: Inform staff when you apply for your replacement at the passport office.

The Passport Replacement Process in Saskatchewan

You cannot mail an application for a lost/stolen passport. You must apply in person. The core process is federal, but where you apply in Saskatchewan affects speed.

1. Gather Documents: Collect all required documents (see Required Documents section).
2. Complete Form PPTC 203: Specifically for lost/stolen passports. Answer all questions about the circumstances.
3. Choose an Office:
   • For fastest service (with proof of travel): Passport Canada office in Regina.
   • For standard service (no urgent travel): A Service Canada Centre in Saskatoon, Prince Albert, or Moose Jaw.
4. Submit & Pay: Submit in person, answer questions, and pay the fees.
5. Follow-up: Keep your receipt. You can check status online or by phone.

Saskatchewan Passport Office & Service Locations

*Processing times are subject to change. Always check official processing times before applying.

Costs & Fees Breakdown (2023)

Fees are set by the federal government and are consistent across Canada. Payment is usually by credit card, debit, bank draft, or certified cheque.

Total Potential Cost Example: An adult needing a replacement passport with next-business-day pick-up in Regina would pay $260 (passport) + $335 (expedited) = $595, plus potential photo costs.

Processing Timelines & Expedited Service

Your timeline depends on where you apply and if you have proof of travel.

• Standard Service (Service Canada Centre): Up to 20 business days, plus mail time.
• In-Person at Regina Office (With Proof of Travel): Approximately 10 business days. Proof includes booked itinerary, e-ticket, or travel insurance docs.
• Expedited Service (Regina Office Only):
  • Next business day (by end of day): $335 extra. Must apply before 10:30 AM.
  • 2-9 business days: $110 extra.

Complete List of Required Documents

Applying with incomplete documents is the most common cause of delay. Bring originals and photocopies.

1. Form PPTC 203: "Application for a Canadian Passport (Lost, Stolen, Damaged, Inaccessible)".
2. Proof of Canadian Citizenship: Original birth certificate, citizenship certificate, or old citizenship card.
3. Supporting Identification: A valid driver's license (e.g., Saskatchewan-issued), provincial ID, or other government-issued photo ID.
4. Two Identical Passport Photos: One must be guaranteed by the photographer. Dated within 6 months.
5. Police Report Number: The file/report number from the Saskatchewan police service you contacted.
6. Any Valid Passports in Your Possession: You must submit any other Canadian travel documents you hold.
7. Payment: Credit card, debit, bank draft, or certified cheque.

Information for Foreign Tourists

If you are visiting Saskatchewan and lose your foreign passport, follow these steps:

1. Local Police Report: File a report with the local Saskatchewan police (as above).
2. Contact Your Embassy/Consulate: This is your primary resource. They will issue emergency travel documents (laissez-passer) or a temporary passport.
   • U.S. Citizens: Contact the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa or the consulate in Calgary.
   • U.K. Citizens: Contact the British High Commission in Ottawa.
   • Australian Citizens: Contact the Australian High Commission in Ottawa.
3. Contact Immigration Authorities: If you lost a Canadian visa or eTA, contact Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
4. Reschedule Travel: Work with your embassy and airline to adjust your plans.

Prevention & Safety Tips for Travelers in Saskatchewan

• Make Copies: Photocopy or digitally scan your passport's bio page and any visas. Store separately from the original.
• Use Hotel Safes: When staying in hotels in cities like Regina or Saskatoon, lock your passport in the room safe.
• Carry Selectively: Only carry your passport when necessary (e.g., airport, currency exchange). A Saskatchewan driver's license is sufficient for most local ID checks.
• Be Aware at Events: Be extra vigilant at large gatherings like the Calgary Stampede (if traveling from SK) or the Saskatoon Exhibition, where pickpocketing risks may increase.
• Register Abroad: If traveling from Saskatchewan to another country, register with Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) for updates in an emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Official Resources

• Government of Canada: Lost, Stolen or Inaccessible Passports
• Passport Processing Times
• Find an RCMP Detachment in Saskatchewan
• Regina Police Service
• Saskatoon Police Service
• Travel.gc.ca - Travel Documents