What to Expect When You Visit: Scheduling, Security Screening, and Contact Rules at Central New Mexico Correctional Facility

Visits at CNMCF are by appointment only - no walk-ins. In-person visits happen Monday through Friday, and you'll need to schedule at least a week in advance. If you're traveling or coordinating time off work, build that lead time into your plans.

Before scheduling anything, confirm you're on the inmate's approved visitation list. CNMCF requires advance approval, and visitation applications must be renewed every two years. If it's been a while since your last visit, double-check your approval status before booking travel.

When you arrive, expect a formal check-in process. All visitors must read and sign the Visitor Statement of Understanding before any visit. This confirms you understand the rules and consent to search requirements.

• ✓ Pass through a metal detector and/or controlled substance detection equipment
• ✓ Be screened by detection dogs trained to detect controlled substances
• ✓ Understand that search regulations may be enforced while you’re on institutional grounds
• ✓ Know that a strip search can be required if the Warden determines probable cause exists

CNMCF allows limited physical contact during contact visits. You can share a brief hug and/or kiss at the beginning and end of the visit - but that's the limit. Prolonged kissing or embracing isn't allowed.

Visiting with kids? During contact visits, an inmate can hold their own children, including infants. If that applies to your family, it helps to let everyone know what to expect before you're seated in the visiting area.

CNMCF doesn't offer weekend visits - Monday through Friday only. Most holidays may still have visitation, but schedules can shift. Confirm before you travel.

Checkin Items Expectations

• ✓ Be on the inmate’s current approved visitation list
• ✓ Make sure your visitation application is current (renewal is required every two years)

1. Check in at the facility - you’ll register as a visitor before you’re allowed to proceed.
2. Read and sign the Visitor Statement of Understanding - signing is required prior to any visit.
3. If your loved one is new to CNMCF, ask them to review the written visiting rules they receive - the facility provides inmates written information about visitation procedures within 24 hours of arrival, which can help you both avoid surprises.