Travel troubles: Rise in the number of lost or stolen passports with over 4.5 million set to expire in 2026

31 January 2026

  • Freedom of Information data obtained by Co-op Insurance has found that more than 4.5 million passports are set to expire in 2026, putting holiday plans at risk. *
  • Meanwhile, the Passport Office reported that almost 370,000 passports were reported as lost or stolen in the UK in 2025, a 62% increase from 2024. **
  • Outside of the UK, Australia and Spain were the locations where passports were most frequently reported as being stolen or lost, last year.
  • Co-op Insurance is issuing a reminder to those with holiday plans to ensure that their passports are valid, and in-date and they have the right cover in place before they travel.

New Freedom of Information data obtained by Co-op Insurance from the Passport Office reveals that there was a 62% rise in the number of lost or stolen passports in the UK, with over 4.5 million set to expire this year.

As Brits plan their 2026 getaways, the member-owned business’ findings highlight that millions will have to renew their passports this year, whilst many may need to apply for a new one after losing their passport or having it stolen, which could jeopardise travel plans if applications are not completed in time for any holidays.

Indeed, data obtained from the Passport Office show that almost 370,000 passports were reported as either lost or stolen in the UK, last year, which represents a 62% increase, from just over 226,000 reported as lost or stolen in total in 2024.

Outside of the UK, the data also reveals that the locations where passports were most frequently reported as being lost or stolen were Australia and Spain, last year.

In addition, there were over 90,000 digital applications for a new passport due to damage to the document rendering it invalid. A passport is considered damaged if details cannot be read; pages are ripped, cut or missing; holes, there are cuts or rips in the cover; or there are stains on the page. ***

Having to replace a lost, stolen or damaged passport can be a frustrating experience, especially given that doing so costs £94.50 digitally and £107 via paper application and there’s no guarantee as to how long the replacement will take to arrive, which could impact travel plans, unless the £222 ‘fast-track replacement’ is opted for. ****

Meanwhile, when it comes to passport expiry, countries such as the US require a passport to be valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date in order to be eligible to travel there, whilst for travel to the EU Schengen Area, passports must be valid for at least three months after the day of departure.

If a passport doesn’t meet the entry requirements of the destination country, holidaymakers will ultimately be prevented from travelling. In this instance, travel insurance providers will be unable to cover missed flights or cancelled holidays, leaving a significant financial hole.

In addition to having a valid passport, Co-op Insurance is reminding holidaymakers to ensure that they obtain travel insurance as soon as they book their holiday and with the average medical expenses claim being almost £2,000 in 2025, those without cover are putting themselves at significant financial risk. *

Ellis German, Head of Travel at Co-op Insurance said:

“With many of us planning our travels for the year ahead, it’s important that you take the time to review your travel documentation and cover.

“Unfortunately, our research indicates that there’s been a rise in the number of people who’ve had to apply for a replacement passport due to theft, loss or damage, which could have had a significant impact on travel plans.

“What’s more, with millions of Brits’ passports expiring this year, leaving it late to renew or replace a passport could mean that you risk putting your holiday in jeopardy.

“It’s therefore vital to ensure that your passport and travel documentation is valid for your travels. It’s also crucial that you have the right cover in place so that you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re fully protected while you’re away.”*

Consumer champion Which?, have rated our Platinum and Gold cover for Annual multi-trip and Single trip travel insurance a Best Buy

Co-op Members get 10% off annual multi-trip insurance until 31 March 2026. Plus, members continue to get 5% off single-trip insurance. Find out more about Co-op Travel Insurance

Notes to the Editor

Freedom of Information data obtained by Co-op Insurance from HM Passport Office as of 31 December

  • Total number of passports set to expire in 2026 is 4,578,138.

** 367,128 reported as lost or stolen in UK v additional data provided by Passport Office in May 2025 showing 226,130 passports were reported as lost or stolen in 2024.

*** In 2025 the total number of digital applications received due to a damaged passport was 90,219.

**** https://www.gov.uk/renew-adult-passport

* Medical expenses claim reported within 2025. Average claim = £1,868

About Co-op Co-op Group is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives, operating across food retail, funerals, insurance, and legal services. Owned by over 6 million active member-owners, Co-op exists to meet their needs and champion the causes they care about. With more than 2,300 food stores, 800 funeral homes and a wholesale business supplying around 6,000 additional outlets, Co-op employs 54,000 colleagues and generates annual revenues of over £11 billion. It is a recognised leader in ethical business and community-led programmes, creating long-term value for members and communities across the UK.

For further information, please contact pressoffice@coop.co.uk