How to Get on an Inmate's Visiting List at FCI Cumberland
Getting approved to visit at FCI Cumberland starts with one non-negotiable rule: you must be on the inmate's approved visiting list and cleared by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Here's how the list works, how to complete the BP‑A0629 form, and what happens during screening.
You can't just show up at FCI Cumberland and ask to visit. The inmate has to add you to their approved visiting list first, and then the BOP needs to clear you. When someone arrives at a new prison, they create this list - it's the starting point for all visits at that facility. The BOP recognizes different categories of visitors. Relatives can include extended family: grandparents, uncles, aunts, in‑laws, cousins. Beyond family, inmates can also add up to 10 friends or associates as "other types of approved visitors." Not immediate family? That's okay. What matters is that the inmate adds you to their list and you complete the clearance process.
Note: You won’t be allowed to visit until the inmate has added you to their visiting list and the BOP has cleared you.
You'll need to complete the BP‑A0629 Visitor Information form. It collects basic biographical information and includes an authorization letting the Warden pull criminal history records as part of the approval decision. Once you've filled it out, send the completed questionnaire and release form to the institution address listed on the form itself. That's where it gets reviewed and processed.
- ✓ Fill out every question on BP‑A0629 completely, using your legal name and accurate personal details.
- ✓ Provide the identification details the form asks for (for example, driver’s license number and state of issuance, if applicable).
- ✓ Sign the authorization section so the Warden can request criminal history records for the background screening.
- ✓ If the applicant is under 18, have a parent or guardian sign to indicate consent for the minor to visit.
- ✓ Use the back of the form if you need extra space.
- ✓ Send the completed form to the institution address listed on BP‑A0629.
- ✓ If you leave information incomplete, processing will be suspended.
- ✓ Don’t guess or “round” details - BP‑A0629 warns that false statements can lead to fines or imprisonment under 18 U.S.C. § 1001.
By signing BP‑A0629, you're giving the Warden formal permission to pull criminal history records - arrests and convictions. That's how the BOP decides whether to approve you for visiting privileges.
Delays usually come down to paperwork. Missing information? The BOP can pause processing until it's complete. Take your time and double-check everything before you send it. Denials happen too, especially if something in your background raises concerns during review. Accuracy matters here - BP‑A0629 warns that false statements can carry criminal penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 1001.
Just admitted or recently transferred? There may not be a visiting list in place yet. In that case, immediate family members who can be verified through the inmate's Pre‑Sentence Report may be allowed to visit before a formal list is established. If this applies to you, reach out to the facility to confirm what's needed for verification and timing.
Wondering if your paperwork is moving? First, confirm you sent the form to the institution address listed on BP‑A0629. For questions about visiting logistics or directions, contact the facility directly. Keep in mind: the BOP makes clear that visitors arrange and pay for their own transportation. For general questions about BOP website information, here's the Central Office contact: Federal Bureau of Prisons, 320 First St., NW, Washington, DC 20534, phone (202) 307-3198.
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