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What to do if…
you are asked for a police report abroad for a stolen document and you do not know how to obtain one

Short answer

Go to the local police (or “tourist police”) as soon as you safely can and ask for a reference number and any written confirmation they can provide (even a brief stamped note). If they cannot (or will not) issue anything, collect alternative written proof (hotel/transport/security) and contact the British embassy/consulate to keep the replacement process moving.

Do not do these things

  • Do not pay cash to unofficial “helpers” outside police stations to “get you a report” — this can be a scam or a bribe risk.
  • Do not hand over your only remaining ID to anyone who is not clearly an official (and avoid letting it leave your sight if possible).
  • Do not assume “a police report” means one exact document — many countries only provide a reference number, a short statement, or an online confirmation.
  • Do not delay cancelling a stolen UK passport just because you’re stuck on the report step (cancelling protects you).
  • Do not post photos of your stolen documents, visas, or police paperwork on social media or send them to unknown addresses.

What to do now

  1. Stabilise and write down the essentials (2 minutes). Note: what was stolen, when/where you last had it, any suspect details, and what you’re being asked for (exact words: “police report”, “crime report”, “incident report”, “report number”, etc.). Take a photo/screenshot of any message requesting it.
  2. Find the correct place to report it locally.
    • Search for “police station” or “tourist police” for your current area.
    • If the theft happened in a transport hub (airport/train station), ask security or the help desk where reports are filed.
  3. Go to the police and ask for the most useful minimum.
    Say: “My document was stolen. I need a reference number and written confirmation for my embassy/insurance.”
    Ask specifically for:
    • a reference number / crime number, and
    • any written confirmation they can provide (copy, stamped note, slip, or online filing confirmation).
  4. If there’s a language barrier, use a safer helper. Ask your hotel reception, tour representative, employer HR (if on a work trip), or a trusted local contact to help translate. If they come with you, make sure you do the talking/signing and keep your documents with you.
  5. If the police say they don’t issue reports for this: record the refusal + collect alternatives.
    • Ask for any written confirmation (a note, stamp, or “incident logged” slip).
    • If they refuse, write down the station name, address, date/time, and the officer’s name/badge number (if available).
    • Then get a written report from another relevant authority tied to where it happened: hotel/host, tour operator, airline/rail/bus company, or venue security.
  6. Contact your travel insurer (or card provider) and ask what they will accept. Tell them what the local police can/can’t provide. Ask whether a reference number alone, an online filing confirmation, or a hotel/transport report is acceptable.
  7. If the stolen document is your UK passport: cancel (report) it as lost or stolen as soon as possible. This reduces the risk of misuse. Do this even if you still need to chase paperwork locally.
  8. If you must travel urgently without your UK passport, consider a UK Emergency Travel Document (ETD). Apply using the official process and be ready to explain what happened and provide whatever local documentation you were able to obtain (reference number, written confirmation, or proof you attempted to report).
  9. Contact the nearest British embassy/consulate for document replacement steps. Tell them: (a) what was stolen, (b) what proof you have (or why you can’t get a police report), and (c) your travel deadline. They can explain what documentation is typically accepted in your location and how to proceed.

What can wait

  • You do not need to perfectly reconstruct every detail of the theft right now — you mainly need a reference number and a basic written record.
  • You do not need to decide today whether to keep pushing for a “full report” — if you hit a barrier, switch to alternative written proof and move the replacement process forward.
  • You do not need to cancel cards, replace everything, and contact everyone at once. Prioritise: record/report → insurer → passport/doc replacement.

Important reassurance

This situation is common, and “police report” often means any official record plus a reference number. Even if the local police process is confusing or they won’t issue a full report, you can usually move forward by gathering alternative written confirmation and showing you tried promptly.

Scope note

These are first steps to get an acceptable record and unblock replacement/claims. Requirements vary by country and by the organisation asking for the report (insurer, airline, embassy), so the goal is to secure something official now and then confirm what will be accepted.

Important note

This guide provides general, practical information and is not legal advice. Local police procedures and what counts as a “report” vary widely. If you feel unsafe going to a police station, prioritise your safety and use a trusted intermediary (hotel/tour rep) and your insurer/consulate for options.

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