How to Apply for Visiting Approval at Columbia Correctional: Complete Checklist
Visiting someone at Columbia Correctional starts with getting on the approved visitors list. Here's the exact checklist for submitting Florida DOC's visitation application correctly—and avoiding delays.
Don't show up until the inmate confirms your application has been approved. If you try to visit before approval comes through, you'll waste the trip - staff will turn you away at check-in.
Fill out Florida Department of Corrections'
- ✓ Get the official Florida DOC visitation application (Request for Visitation Privileges)
- ✓ Fill it out completely and clearly
- ✓ Confirm you’re sending it to the institution where you’re requesting to visit
- ✓ Submit the completed form by e-mail or by U.S. Mail
- ✓ Keep a copy of what you sent (and any e-mail confirmation, if applicable)
Heads up: Florida DOC allows only one visitation application form per person. Sending duplicates can slow things down or create confusion during processing.
Each person who wants visiting privileges needs their own form - don't combine people on one application, and don't submit multiple versions of yours. Take your time: write legibly, answer honestly, and don't leave anything blank. If a question doesn't apply, write
Anyone 12 or older must complete and sign their own application. No signature? The form won't be processed.
Legal warning: Giving false information on the application is a second-degree misdemeanor and can lead to permanent suspension of your visitation privileges.
Common Mistakes
- ✓ Trying to visit before the inmate tells you your application is approved
- ✓ Submitting more than one application for the same person (only one form per person)
- ✓ Forgetting to complete and sign the form if you’re age 12 or older
- ✓ Leaving blanks instead of writing “N/A” when something doesn’t apply
- ✓ Sending the application somewhere other than the institution where you’re requesting to visit
- ✓ Providing false or misleading information (can trigger denial and serious consequences)
Before you hit send or seal the envelope, review your application the way staff will. Make sure every line has an answer (use
Find an Inmate at Columbia Correctional Inst.
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
