Before you visit your loved ones in prison, there are a few things you will need to do. Although these steps may vary from state-to-state and event prison to prison, they are generally the same guidelines, which typically include completing an application, undergoing a background check, and following the specific procedures of the prison where the inmate is housed. Today, we put together a step-by-step guide to help you get on your loved one’s visiting list.
1. Contact the Inmate
- Inmate Request: The process usually starts with the inmate requesting to have you added to their visiting list. The inmate may need to provide your details to the prison administration, so make sure they have your full name, address, and any other required information.
- Communication: Reach out to the inmate through letters or phone calls to confirm that they’ve initiated the process of adding you to their list.
2. Obtain a Visitor Application
- From the Prison: The prison will often require you to fill out a visitor application form. The inmate can request this form to be mailed to you, or you might be able to download it from the prison’s website.
- Information Required: The application will typically ask for personal details such as your full name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and your relationship to the inmate. You may also need to provide identification details like your driver’s license number.
3. Complete the Application
- Fill Out the Form: Carefully fill out the visitor application form, ensuring all information is accurate and complete. Any mistakes or omissions could delay the process.
- Provide Identification: You may be required to submit copies of your ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport, along with the application.
4. Submit the Application
- Mail or Online Submission: Submit the completed application as instructed by the prison. Some facilities allow for online submission, while others may require you to mail the application to a specific address.
- Include Required Documents: Ensure that all required documents, such as identification copies, are included with your application.
5. Undergo a Background Check
- Background Check Consent: As part of the application process, you will likely need to consent to a background check. The prison will use this check to determine your eligibility to visit the inmate.
- Processing Time: The background check and application review process can take several weeks, so be patient.
6. Wait for Approval
- Notification: Once your application is processed, the prison will notify you and the inmate of your approval or denial. This notification could be by mail, email, or phone, depending on the prison’s procedures.
- Approval: If approved, your name will be added to the inmate’s visiting list, and you will be eligible to schedule visits.
7. Follow Up if Necessary
- Check Status: If you haven’t heard back within the expected timeframe, contact the prison’s visitation department to check the status of your application.
- Resubmit if Denied: If your application is denied, ask for the reasons and find out if there’s an appeal process or if you can correct any issues that led to the denial.
8. Schedule a Visit
- Visiting Days and Hours: Once you’re on the visiting list, find out the specific visiting days and hours for the prison. Visits often need to be scheduled in advance, either online or by phone.
- Confirmation: After scheduling, confirm the visit with the prison to ensure everything is in order.
9. Prepare for the Visit
- Review Visitation Rules: Familiarize yourself with the prison’s visitation rules, including the dress code, items you can bring, and behavior guidelines.
- Bring Identification: On the day of your visit, bring a valid photo ID as it will be required to enter the facility.
10. Special Considerations
- Minor Visitors: If you are bringing minors, check the rules regarding children. You may need to provide additional documentation, like a birth certificate, and they must often be accompanied by an adult.
- Changes in Status: Be aware that changes in the inmate’s status (e.g., transfer, disciplinary actions) or your status (e.g., new criminal charges) could affect your ability to visit.
By following these steps, you can successfully get on a prison visiting list and arrange visits with your loved one. Make sure to stay informed about any specific requirements or changes in the prison’s visitation policies. For more resources on prison visits, check out the Bureau of Prisons website.