Michigan Prison Video Visits: Cost, Length, Scheduling, and What You Can Do On Camera
Video visits can be a lifeline—but they come with strict timing, payment rules, and on-camera expectations. Here's what Michigan prison video visits actually look like, so you can schedule smoothly and avoid a cancelled visit.
Scheduled video visits are 20 minutes long. That time goes fast, so it helps to be ready to start on time and keep the conversation focused once the connection begins.
A 20-minute video visit costs $3.20. Whoever schedules the visit pays - and payment must be made in advance. Don't assume you can settle up later.
The scheduling window is tight. You can book no more than 7 days ahead, and you must schedule at least 48 hours before the visit.
Payment goes through ViaPath (GTL) and is required up front. The visit isn't held while you figure out payment - you need to pay the $3.20 when you schedule.
Log in early. Approved visitors must be on the ViaPath (ViaPath/GTL) Visitor website 10 minutes before the scheduled time to complete verification before the visit can start.
Have your photo ID ready - adults must show identification on video before each visit. Acceptable IDs include a driver's license, state ID, military ID, passport, or other government-issued photo ID. You'll also need to state the name of everyone who will be on camera.
Video visits are recorded. The one exception: attorney-client visits (including visits with an attorney's representative) are not recorded.
Attire and Special Rules
- ✓ Be fully dressed on camera.
- ✓ Don’t wear underwear, bathing attire, or lingerie as outer garments.
- ✓ Don’t remove any clothing during the video visit.
- ✓ Wear undergarments, including underpants/panties.
- ✓ Bras are required for visitors with breast tissue who identify as female.
Breastfeeding is allowed during a video visit, but only if the child is on the prisoner's approved visitor list. If your child isn't approved yet, get that sorted before the call.
You can't show items on camera during a Michigan prison video visit - no photos, papers, or objects you might want to hold up.
There's one narrow exception: immediate family members (as defined in PD 05.03.140) may show and discuss legal documents. If what you want to share isn't a legal document - or you don't meet the immediate-family definition - assume it can't be displayed.
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