Getting on the Approved Visitor List at FCI McDowell

Everything starts with the inmate. You can only visit if the person you want to see has put you on their visiting list and the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) has cleared you. The BOP allows several categories of visitors: relatives (grandparents, uncles, aunts, in-laws, cousins), up to 10 friends or associates, and certain other approved visitors like attorneys, clergy, employers, sponsors, and parole advisors.

Your first step is completing the BP-A0629 visitor questionnaire and release form. This form gives staff the information they need to run your background clearance. Fill it out and return it to the institution following the instructions provided.

• ✓ Write the inmate’s full name and register number clearly on your BP-A0629 so it can be matched to the right person.
• ✓ Fill out the questionnaire completely and double-check for missing answers before you send it.
• ✓ Keep a copy of what you submit (photo or scan) in case you need to reference it later.
• ✓ Before you make travel plans, confirm the visiting schedule and any last-minute restrictions by calling FCI McDowell at 603-342-4000.

Once you've completed the BP-A0629, mail it to the address listed on the form. Until the institution receives your questionnaire, you're not in the pipeline for approval.

Submitting the form kicks off the BOP clearance process. Even if the inmate wants you on their list, you still need to be cleared before visiting. That clearance is based on the BOP's review of your questionnaire and any background checks they run to flag potential management or security concerns.

During clearance, the BOP may run inquiries to check for anything that would affect your approval. If you skip questions or refuse to provide requested information, your application can be suspended and you may not receive further consideration. Take the time to complete the form carefully and fully.

• ✓ Submit your BP-A0629 as early as you can so clearance has time to process before your first planned visit.
• ✓ If you have been waiting and nothing seems to be moving, follow up with the institution.
• ✓ Before you travel, confirm the visiting schedule and any last-minute restrictions by calling FCI McDowell at 603-342-4000.

Once you're approved, keep in mind that the visiting list is managed from the inmate's side. One common limit: inmates can have no more than 10 friends or associates on their list. If you're a friend (not immediate family), confirm with the inmate that there's space and that your name has actually been added, not just submitted.

Practical Tips

• ✓ Use the BP-A0629 visitor questionnaire and release form, and return it to the institution as directed.
• ✓ Put the inmate’s name and register number on your paperwork so it is routed correctly.
• ✓ Answer the questionnaire completely. Incomplete or missing information can stall the process.
• ✓ Keep a copy of what you submitted so you can match it to any questions later.
• ✓ Start early. Clearance has to happen before you can visit, even if the inmate has put you on their list.
• ✓ If you have waited and you are not getting updates, follow up with the institution.
• ✓ Call FCI McDowell at 603-342-4000 before traveling to confirm the visiting schedule and any last-minute restrictions.

1. Complete the BP-A0629 - Fill out the visitor questionnaire and release form and make sure your answers are complete.
2. Return it to the institution - Send it back using the address or instructions provided on the form.
3. Wait for processing - Visiting requires both placement on the inmate’s list and BOP clearance, so approval can take time.
4. Confirm before you go - Call FCI McDowell at 603-342-4000 to confirm the visiting schedule and any last-minute restrictions before you travel.