FMC Devens Visitor Checklist: What to Bring, Wear, and Leave at Home

At a Glance

• ✓ Confirm you’re on the inmate’s approved visiting list and that you’ve been cleared by the Bureau of Prisons before you travel.

• ✓ Call ahead to make sure your visit will be permitted; inmate movements and visiting lists can change.

• ✓ Leave prohibited items at home (especially weapons, drugs/intoxicants, and electronics).

• ✓ Bring your photo ID, and be ready to list any medications you’re carrying and leave them at the entry area.

Before you pack anything, make sure you're actually eligible to visit. The inmate must have added you to their approved visiting list, and the Bureau of Prisons needs to have cleared you. If that approval hasn't come through yet, showing up with all the right items won't matter - you won't get in. Confirm your status first.

1. List every medication you have with you - all types of medication you carry must be written on the entry form.
2. Show the medication at the entry point if asked - staff may check what you listed against what you’re carrying.
3. Leave the medication at the entry area - medications must be left there while you’re visiting.

Prohibited Items

• ✓ Weapons
• ✓ Explosives
• ✓ Drugs
• ✓ Intoxicants
• ✓ Currency
• ✓ Cameras (of any type)
• ✓ Recording equipment
• ✓ Telephones
• ✓ Radios
• ✓ Pagers
• ✓ Other electronic devices

These restrictions exist for safety and security. Keep in mind that by entering - or even attempting to enter - Bureau grounds, you're consenting to a search under Bureau policy and federal regulations (28 C.F.R. Part 511). Refuse the search, and you won't get in. The easiest way to keep your visit on track? Leave prohibited items at home and bring as little as possible.

Dress like you're going to a family-friendly public space - because you are. Visitors can be turned away for clothing that's inappropriate, provocative, or revealing. When in doubt, change before you leave home. It's not worth risking the trip over an outfit.

Expect to go through a search during check-in. By entering or attempting to enter Bureau grounds, you consent to being searched under Bureau policy and 28 C.F.R. Part 511. Refusing means your visit ends before it starts. Keep your belongings simple and build this step into your schedule.

• ✓ Call ahead before you leave so you know your visit will be permitted.
• ✓ Arrive with your ID ready and your information easy to verify.
• ✓ Expect to be searched as part of entering Bureau grounds or facilities.
• ✓ Don’t argue or refuse the search process; refusal may bar you from entry.

Brief physical contact is usually allowed - a handshake, hug, or quick kiss at the start and end of your visit. Staff can limit contact for security reasons, so follow the room rules and keep things calm. A respectful approach helps your time together go smoothly.