Lost identity documents include those that have been stolen, misplaced or completely destroyed.
In Switzerland
To obtain a new identity document, you must first report the loss at a Swiss police station. You will be given a loss report, which you must present to your cantonal passport office. You can then apply for a new identity document.
The lost identity document will no longer be valid, and the document number will be circulated to enable national and international searches. If you find the identity document again, do not use it under any circumstances.
Abroad
Contact the local police to report the loss of your identity document. This report will enable you to apply for a replacement document from the Swiss diplomatic or consular representation in your host country.
If you are abroad temporarily and do not apply for a replacement document in your host country, you must report the loss to the police in Switzerland after you have returned.
To obtain a replacement document, you must present a loss report issued by the Swiss police or a police force abroad.
The lost identity document will no longer be valid, and the document number will be circulated to enable national and international searches. If you find the identity document again, do not use it under any circumstances.
Always travel with a copy of the personal details page from your identity document. This will enable you to report the document number to the local police in case of loss.
Last modification 30.06.2025
