ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – It will soon be easier for University of New Mexico students, facility and staff to get a passport.

A new passport center will be opening inside the UNM Bookstore on Friday.

There has been a surge in passport applications in recent years resulting in long lines at passport sites across the state.

The university says this new center will be a convenience for students and the public and will be right next to Satellite Coffee, the Technology Center and La Montanita Co-op.

UNM says many students also study abroad so this service could be critical for them.