Before Your First Visit to George W. Hill: Arrival, Processing, and What to Expect

Build extra time into your day. Processing and security checks at George W. Hill typically take 30–60 minutes - longer if there's a line or paperwork needs verification. Arriving early gives you a cushion. Staff may need to confirm your ID, check whether you're on the approved list, or verify documents for a child visiting with you. Show up right at your scheduled time, and you risk losing visit time or being asked to reschedule.

• ✓ A valid government-issued photo ID for every adult visitor
• ✓ Confirmation you’re scheduled for that day (and the correct time/unit)
• ✓ If a minor is visiting: the minor’s birth certificate and the parent/legal guardian who will accompany them
• ✓ A quick double-check that you’re approved to visit (some visits require being on an approved list and may involve a background check)

Visits at George W. Hill must be scheduled in advance. Don't plan on walking in and getting a slot the same day. Before you pick a travel time, confirm visiting hours for the person you're seeing. Hours vary by housing unit and security level, with most visits scheduled on weekends and holidays (some weekday options exist depending on the unit). Check the current schedule through the facility's official resources or call (610) 361-3200.

Every adult visitor needs a valid, government-issued photo ID - driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Bring the physical card. Staff will verify it before allowing you into the visiting area.

Bringing a minor? Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and you'll need the child's birth certificate. This is one of the easiest details to forget - pack it before you leave home.

Know your group size before you go. Most facilities limit how many people can visit at once, so confirm George W. Hill's current limit for your specific day and unit. Visitor limits and entry decisions may also depend on approval status. If the facility requires an approved visitation list (and possibly a background check), make sure everyone in your group is cleared ahead of time.

• ✓ Confirm how many visitors are allowed per incarcerated person before you go
• ✓ Dress conservatively: avoid revealing clothing, shorts, or clothing with offensive graphics
• ✓ Plan to leave personal items behind - especially anything that could slow security screening
• ✓ Don’t bring items that are commonly prohibited at facilities, like phones, food, or anything that could be considered a weapon; check the current rules before you arrive

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• ✓ Arrive early - processing and security checks can take about 30–60 minutes
• ✓ Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID)
• ✓ If a minor is visiting: bring the minor’s birth certificate and make sure a parent/legal guardian is coming
• ✓ Confirm your visit is scheduled in advance
• ✓ Confirm you’re approved to visit if the facility requires an approved visitation list and/or background check

1. Ask what’s holding you up - If you’re delayed or denied at check-in, ask staff whether the issue is scheduling or visitor approval.
2. Verify your appointment details - Since visits must be scheduled in advance, confirm you’re booked for the correct day/time and that you followed the right process.
3. Check your approval status - If the facility uses an approved visitation list or requires a background check for some visits, confirm whether you’re cleared.
4. Reschedule if needed - If the issue can’t be fixed on the spot, get clear instructions on what to correct so your next trip isn’t wasted.