Picture this: you are at the airport and will soon board a flight, but then you discover you’ve left your passport at home. Going back home for your passport is out of the question already, considering how long this would take and how much time remains.
For travelers, few scenarios are more nightmarish than the one just described. In this Pacific Prime article, we take a look at what steps you can take to resolve the situation quickly and smoothly if you ever find yourself in this predicament in Shanghai.
The Situation
Imagine arriving at either Shanghai Pudong International Airport or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, suitcase in hand, only to discover that your passport is conspicuously missing. You call home, and your wife tells you your passport is sitting in the drawer.
That comes as a relief – you know at least your passport is not stolen. But you still have to figure out how to catch your flight to attend an important meeting.
You can’t ask your wife for help, because she is working non-stop on a report due the next day. If anything, she needs some help herself. Moreover, there is simply not enough time for you to head home then return to the airport again.
This is not an uncommon situation, and many travelers have had to face this kind of urgency.
The Temporary Travel Certificate
Fortunately in Shanghai, travelers who forget their passports can apply for a temporary travel certificate. It serves as a valid form of identification for boarding a flight. Here are the typical steps to follow:
- Visit the Duty Manager’s Desk: The first step is to approach the duty manager’s desk at the airport. Whether you are at Pudong or Hongqiao, these staff members are equipped to help you get through this unexpected challenge.
- Provide Necessary Information: You will need to provide your name, flight details, and any other relevant information, such as your passport number if you remember it. The airline will assist by printing out a copy of your ticket information, which is needed for your next steps.
- Apply at the Airport Police Station: With the ticket confirmation copy in hand, your next stop is the airport police station. Present the ticket information and explain your situation to the officers there.
- Receive Your Temporary ID: Once your application is processed, the police will issue a stamped temporary travel certificate that includes your photo. This document allows you to board your flight, albeit with some limitations.
- Consider Alternative Forms of ID: If you possess other valid forms of identification, such as a diplomatic passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a Chinese permanent residence card, ask whether these can be used in place of a passport. This could streamline the boarding process.
If you’re unsure where to go or what to do next, don’t hesitate to call the airport’s customer service hotlines. For Pudong International Airport, the contact number is +86 21-96990, and for Hongqiao International Airport, it’s +86 21-32531090.
Note that this temporary travel certificate is only valid for 10 days, though different airports may have different policies. If your travel plans extend beyond this period, you will need to reapply for another certificate.
Last but not least, the temporary travel certificate is only for boarding purposes. It cannot be used as identification for other activities.
What If You’re at Another Airport?
At any airport, once you know you don’t have your passport, you should head straight to the duty manager’s desk or your airline counter. It’s important to act fast, because every minute counts. You will need to explain your situation clearly to the airport staff, who are trained to assist in such scenarios.
It’s only human to panic and feel overwhelmed in a situation like this, but remember you are not alone. The airport staff and police are experienced, and they are there to assist you. Here are some further tips on how to seek help effectively:
- Communicate Clearly: When you approach the duty manager or airport police, be clear and concise about your situation. Double check every piece of information they have of you. The last thing you want in this situation are errors that complicate matters further or create additional delays.
- Keep Important Contacts Handy: Have the contact information for your embassy, as well as any important phone numbers, readily available. This includes your airline, the direct line of the airport personnel handling your case, and the local police.
- Stay Updated on Your Flight Status: Keep an eye on your flight’s status. If possible, it may be beneficial to change your travel plans, and the airline staff can assist you with rebooking.
About Pacific Prime
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