1. Immediate Action: Block the Card
The moment you realize your card is gone, you must lock it to prevent someone else from using your remaining days.
- Log In: Go to the official International Student Travel Pass website.
- Find Your Number: If you don’t have your myki number written down, click “Manage Your Profile” to see the card number currently assigned to you.
- Order Replacement: You can only block the card by initiating a replacement. Once you click “Replace a Pass,” your lost card will be permanently locked within 24 hours.
2. The Replacement Process (2026)
- The Cost: In 2026, there is a replacement fee (approx. $10.00 – $15.00) to cover the cost of printing a new photo-ID card and postage.
- Balance Protection: The “active days” remaining on your 90, 180, or 365-day pass are frozen at the moment you order the replacement.
- Activation: Your remaining days will automatically transfer to the new card and “unfreeze” the first time you tap on with your new physical card.
3. 2026 Timeline: The “Waiting Period”
The biggest challenge of losing an ISTP card is the waiting time.
- Delivery: Your new card will be posted to your registered Australian address. In April 2026, delivery typically takes 3 weeks.
- Interim Travel: You cannot get a temporary ISTP card. During these 3 weeks, you must pay full fare (or use a standard Concession myki if you have a secondary eligibility like a Health Care Card).
- Pro-Tip: Keep your receipts for full-fare travel during this 3-week wait. While PTV rarely refunds these, some university student unions offer small “emergency grants” for transport if you can prove you are waiting for a replacement.
4. 2026 ISTP vs. Digital Myki
As of April 2026, ISTP cards remain physical-only for many international students because they require a printed photo for visual inspection by Authorized Officers.
- Can I move it to my phone? While standard mykis can be moved to Google Wallet, the ISTP often cannot be fully digitized yet. Do not attempt to “convert” your ISTP to a mobile myki in the app, as this can sometimes void the 50% discount logic. Always use the physical card sent by PTV.
5. Summary Checklist
| Step | Action Required | Location |
| 1. Block | Log in and select “Replace a Pass” | ISTP Website |
| 2. Pay | Pay the replacement card fee | Online |
| 3. Verify | Check your postal address is current | Profile Settings |
| 4. Wait | Allow 21 days for mail delivery | Your Mailbox |
| 5. Tap | Tap on to reactivate your frozen days | Any Station/Bus/Tram |






