How to Schedule a Video Visit from Home with Someone in a Virginia Prison
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) offers video visitation you can do from home, as long as you meet the program rules. Here's how to choose the right visit type, register correctly, and avoid common issues that can cost you the visit.
VADOC offers two video visitation options. At-home video visitation lets you connect from your own device: a home computer, tablet, or Android smartphone. If you don't have the right technology, or if the person you're visiting doesn't qualify for at-home visits, there's another option. VADOC partners with Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI) to provide video visitation at visitor centers across the state. At-home visits are more convenient when your setup works smoothly. The AFOI option is a solid backup when at-home isn't a fit.
Start by registering the right way. When you sign up for video visitation, use your legal name. This trips up a lot of people, especially if you normally go by a nickname or shortened version of your name.
If you're 18 or older, you'll also need a valid government-issued photo ID to participate. Plan ahead so you're not scrambling at the last minute. An invalid ID can stop the visit from happening.
- Log into the GTL system 15 minutes early (at-home visits) - Home internet video visitation visitors must be logged into the GTL system 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.
- Arrive 20 minutes early (AFOI visitor center visits) - If you are using an AFOI Visitor Center, you must arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled video visit.
Treat the appointment time as firm. Video visits run only for the exact time slot you scheduled, and fees aren't refunded for late arrivals or missed visits. If you sign on late, you lose that time. Don't expect a refund.
Who May Join Limits
- ✓ A maximum of five people (including children) may participate in a single video visit.
- ✓ If minors are participating, at least one visitor must be over 18 and be the parent or legal guardian of the minor visitor(s).
Video visitation can be suspended if you violate the rules. A violation results in a six-month suspension of video visitation privileges. Some violations carry enhanced sanctions, up to and including a permanent ban from the video visitation system. Take the rules seriously before you start the call.
Eligibility also depends on the incarcerated person's status. Inmates in Initial Reception aren't eligible for video visits. Inmates classified as Security Level 4 or 5 must be six months infraction-free to qualify. If video visits aren't available right now, it may be tied to where they are in the process or their current classification.
Tips to Avoid Problems
- ✓ Register using your legal name so your account information matches program requirements.
- ✓ For an at-home visit, log into the GTL system 15 minutes before the scheduled start time.
- ✓ If you are visiting from an AFOI Visitor Center, arrive at least 20 minutes early.
- ✓ Plan around the exact scheduled time slot. Fees are not refunded for late arrivals or missed visits.
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