Visitor Eligibility: Criminal History and Other Disqualifiers for Virginia DOC Visits
Virginia Department of Corrections visits start with an online application and a background review. Here's how eligibility works, what can trigger a denial, and what to do if your application takes longer than expected.
Every visitor to a Virginia DOC facility, adults and minors alike, has to apply online first. Filling out the form doesn't mean you're approved. You need written pre-approval from the Central Visitation Unit (CVU) before heading to the institution. Part of the application is a background investigation. The adult applicant must authorize CVU to run a background check on themselves and any associated minors. That includes criminal history checks for minor visitors over age 15. Wait for written approval from CVU before trying to schedule your first visit. If you show up before your application is processed, or you arrive without a scheduled visit, you won't be allowed in.
Timing: CVU generally reviews visitor applications within 45 days of receipt. Some applications can take an additional 90 days, including out-of-state visitors, former employees, and applicants with a criminal history.
Certain convictions lead to an automatic denial. Virginia DOC will not approve your visitor application if you've been convicted under COV §18.2-431.1 (illegal conveyance or possession of a cellular phone or other wireless telecommunications device by a prisoner), or an equivalent offense in another jurisdiction.
Other criminal histories don't trigger an automatic denial, but they do limit your eligibility. If you have felony conviction(s) for drug distribution and/or possession, you may only be considered for visits with family members, and only after you've completed supervision. The same family-only restriction applies if there's any documented history of attempting to smuggle a controlled substance into a facility. Virginia DOC will only consider visits with immediate family members, again only after completion of supervision.
Some applications take longer because they need extra review. Virginia DOC flags certain categories for extended processing: out-of-state visitors, former employees, and applicants with a criminal history. If you fall into one of those groups, expect the decision to be handled on a case-by-case basis. It will likely take additional time compared with a standard application.
- Track your timeline - CVU generally reviews applications within 45 days of receipt. If your situation fits a category that requires extra review (such as out-of-state, former employee, or criminal history), plan for up to an additional 90 days.
- Contact CVU if you’re past the expected window - Ask whether your application needs additional information or is still in review.
- Do not schedule or show up until you have written approval - First-time scheduling should wait until CVU approves you in writing. If you arrive before your application is processed or without scheduling, you will not be allowed to visit.
Reminder: The adult applicant authorizes the background investigation for themselves and all associated minors. Criminal history checks include minor visitors over age 15.
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