UNM’s Passport Center helps Lobos go Global

Did you know that The University of New Mexico has a passport acceptance center right on campus? The Passport Center is nestled in the heart of the bookstore, on the first floor, right after the Mercado.

See the UNM Passport Center's location video.

The center is a division of the Global Education Office that offers the greater Lobo community an easy, friendly and meaningful way to connect with the world. Giving its customers a personable access point for their international experiences.

Obtaining a passport can often be the first step for students and community members to pursue study abroad opportunities, internships or even global research.

"The study abroad program is central to UNM's 2040 educational goals as it broadens horizons, strengthens global competencies and enriches education well beyond the traditional classroom," said Nicole Tami, the executive director of global education initiatives.

Proceeds from the Passport Center fund student scholarships for international graduate research and mobility. In fact, since 2019, the center has funded over 100 scholarships and reimbursed 194 students for the costs associated with obtaining a new U.S. passport.

The U.S. Department of State sets the fees, which are:

• Passport Application Fee:
  • $134 for adults
  • $100 for children
• Application Fee: $35
• Photos: $15 (for 1 set of 2 photos)

"At GEO, we are committed to opening doors to the world for UNM students; removing barriers, expanding opportunities and making the dream of studying abroad a reality," Tami said. "Our on-campus Passport Center is one of many services we provide to ensure students' international travel plans materialize. Through hands-on support with passport applications and visa photos-along with the GEO Passport Grant that fully covers the cost of a new passport-we ensure that finances are never a barrier to exploration."

Anyone, including students, staff, faculty, New Mexico residents, and even those passing through Albuquerque from out of state, are welcome to use the center.

The center officially opened in 2017 to help students access the world. Since then, it has experienced significant growth. The center was able to add additional full-time staff positions, as well as offer student employment opportunities. It provides a full range of services, from processing new applications and passport renewals to taking passport photos.

The center serves an average of 200 customers each week, sometimes more than 300. Last year alone, the team processed more than 5,500 passport applications.

Lead Passport Acceptance Agent Linda Contreras Ridlington shared that "I believe people visit us over another service center because of the more personable experience we provide. We take the time to learn where they are in their process, what information they need or have with them and walk them step-by-step through the process."

This gives each applicant a personalized service, tailored to their individual needs and progress. The agents will answer all questions, process applications, and assist customers in completing the forms.

The center is situated in the heart of campus, at the bookstore, which is located at 2301 Central Ave., N.E. Its hours are designed to provide a variety of options, allowing patrons to find a time that is convenient for them. Appointments can be scheduled from Tuesday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome from Tuesday to Friday, 1-3 p.m. The center is also open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for walk-in visits.

Visit the Passport Center's website for more information and to schedule an appointment.