How Long It Takes to Get Approved for Visits at Phoenix West (what the 60‑day timeline means)
Waiting for visitation approval is stressful—especially when you're trying to plan ahead. At Phoenix West, ADCRR tells applicants to expect a 60-day processing window, starting after they've received your payment (if required) and any supporting documents.
ADCRR asks you to allow up to 60 days for your application to be processed. Here's the key detail: that clock doesn't start until the facility receives your payment (if applicable) and any supporting documents. Submit the application but send your fee or paperwork later? The 60-day window won't begin until everything's in.
Heads up: If fees and required documents aren't received within 30 days of your application date, your application is considered incomplete and won't be processed.
Note: ADCRR also warns that during a change of systems, you may experience extra delays in application processing.
Adult applicants - whether for in-person, phone, or video visits - must pay a one-time, non-refundable $25 background check fee under Department Order 911. This fee is part of the approval process, so paying it correctly and promptly helps you avoid delays.
Possible exception: If you only want phone-call privileges (and not in-person/video visitation), you may not be required to pay the $25 background check fee.
ADCRR requires all visitation-related payments to be made electronically. This is one of the easiest places to get stuck if you're trying to line up a visit quickly - plan on using an electronic payment method from the start.
You'll need your Application Visitor ID number when submitting your electronic payment. Save it, screenshot it, write it down - it's how ADCRR matches your payment to your application.
Practical Tips
- ✓ Pay the required $25 one-time, non-refundable background check fee if you’re an adult applying for in-person, phone, or video visits.
- ✓ Use electronic payment only (that’s the required method).
- ✓ Have your Application Visitor ID ready when you pay so your payment can be matched to your application.
- ✓ Make sure any applicable fees and required supporting documents are received within 30 days of the application date - otherwise the application is considered incomplete and won’t be processed.
Once ADCRR has your payment (if applicable) and supporting documents, plan for the full 60-day processing window. If it feels like it's taking longer than expected, keep in mind that system changes can slow things down beyond the normal timeline.
Reminder: If you’re applying for phone calls only, you may be exempt from the $25 background check fee - but you still use the regular application process.
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