How to Get Approved to Visit Someone at FCI Tallahassee

The Bureau of Prisons lets inmates at FCI Tallahassee request visitors from several categories: relatives (grandparents, uncles, aunts, in-laws, cousins), plus up to 10 friends or associates. Other eligible visitor types include foreign officials, members of religious groups (including clergy), civic group members, current or prospective employers, sponsors, parole advisors, and attorneys. Falling into one of these categories doesn't automatically get you approved. It just means you can be considered for placement on the visiting list.

You can't visit FCI Tallahassee until you're on the inmate's approved visiting list and cleared by the Bureau of Prisons. The inmate has to take the first step by requesting you as a visitor through the facility's process. If you're planning a first visit, build in time for approval before booking travel or showing up at the institution.

After the inmate requests to add you, you'll typically need to complete the Visitor Information form (BP-A0629). This form goes beyond basic contact details. By filling it out, you're acknowledging that the institution may run an inquiry to determine whether you're suitable for the inmate's visiting list. That inquiry can involve contacting law enforcement or crime information agencies to check whether adding you would create a management concern for the institution or have other adverse effects.

You may also need to complete BP-A0660, an authorization that lets the Federal Bureau of Prisons pull your criminal history background. The form states this check must be completed before you're allowed to enter any Bureau facility. It also notes that refusing to provide the required information can result in denial of entry (and denial of volunteer or contract status, if applicable).

Together, these two forms explain why approval can take a while. BP-A0629 lets the institution make law enforcement or crime-information inquiries to decide whether adding you to the visiting list would cause a management issue. BP-A0660 authorizes the Bureau to obtain criminal history information, and the form makes clear that the check must be completed before you can enter a Bureau facility. If you want the process to move smoothly, fill out the paperwork fully and consistently so staff can finish the suitability and background screening without delays.

Common Reasons Delay Deny

• ✓ The institution needs to make an inquiry to law enforcement or a crime information agency to determine suitability for the visiting list
• ✓ You refuse to provide the information needed to authorize a criminal history check (BP-A0660), which can lead to denial of entry
• ✓ You provide false statements on BP-A0629, which the form warns can carry criminal penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 1001

Once you're approved, take a few minutes to review the Bureau's visiting regulations before your trip. Keep an eye on any applicable state and local travel advisories, too. Visiting schedules can change, so FCI Tallahassee recommends calling the facility to confirm before you head out: 603-342-4000.