How to Get Approved to Visit Someone at CFRC‑MAIN (Coleman): Visitor Approval Process

You can only visit someone at CFRC‑MAIN after two things happen: the inmate adds you to their approved visiting list, and the Bureau of Prisons clears you. There's no "just stopping by" - even for immediate family. If the person you want to see recently arrived or transferred, their visiting list may still be in progress. Getting approved first is normal.

At CFRC‑MAIN, getting approved means completing Form BP‑A0629 (the visitor information form). The form explains that staff may contact law enforcement or a crime information agency to determine whether you're suitable as a visitor. What they find helps decide if you'll be approved.

BP‑A0629 also explains the legal basis for these checks. The Bureau of Prisons has authority under Title 18 U.S.C. § 4042 to request background information on proposed visitors.

Part of BP‑A0629 is an "Authorization to Release Information." Your signature authorizes the Warden to access your criminal record - including arrests, convictions, and related information. This is what allows the BOP to review your background before deciding whether to approve you.

1. Make sure the inmate has added you to their visiting list - You can only visit if you’re on their list and you’ve been cleared by the BOP.
2. Complete BP‑A0629 fully and sign the release - The form is used to assess your suitability, and it tells you the institution may contact law enforcement or crime information agencies.
3. Wait for the BOP to review and clear you - Approval isn’t automatic; the Bureau uses the information gathered through the process to determine whether you’re acceptable as a visitor.
4. Don’t attempt a visit until you’re approved - Even if you’ve submitted paperwork, you still need both pieces in place: the inmate’s visiting list approval and BOP clearance.