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Video Visits from Home or an AFOI Visitor Center: How to Set Up and What to Expect

Video visitation is often the easiest way to stay connected when an in-person trip isn't realistic. Here's how VADOC video visits work, what you need to participate, and the rules that can end a visit early.

• 2 min read Verified from official sources

VADOC offers video visitation through a partnership with Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI). You have two options: at-home video visitation using a home computer, tablet, or Android smartphone, or a session at an AFOI Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is designed for people who don't have the right technology at home. It can also be a good alternative if you don't qualify for at-home video visitation.

You must be 18 or older and have a valid, government-issued photo ID to participate in video visitation. Make sure the information you provide matches your legal ID exactly, since your identity is tied to your ability to visit.

Keep your space simple during the visit. No other technology (extra phone, computer, tablet, or television) is allowed in the room besides the one device you're using to connect. Third parties also cannot join through a separate app or device. The only approved way to participate is through the GTL Visitor Web application.

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  • ✓ Log into the GTL system 15 minutes before your at-home visit start time.
  • ✓ If you are using an AFOI Visitor Center, arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled visit.

Reminder: Video visits run on exact scheduled time slots. Fees are not refunded for late arrivals or missed visits.

Dress like you would for an in-person visit, even from home. VADOC requires outer garments and undergarments that cover from the neck to the kneecaps. All visitors must wear underwear during video visits.

Keep the group small. Video visits are limited to five people total, including children. If minors are participating, at least one visitor must be over 18 and must be the parent or legal guardian of those minors.

Treat the session like a real visit, and assume it's being monitored. Recording, filming, or taking pictures or screenshots of the video visit (including pictures of the inmate) is not allowed. You also can't display pictures or play movies in the background if they contain inappropriate content.

  1. Plan around the schedule: visits are for the exact time slots as scheduled. If you arrive late or miss the visit, fees will not be refunded.
  2. Know that some interruptions end the visit: if the inmate must use the restroom, the video visit will be terminated.

No recording: Recording, filming, or taking pictures or screenshots during a video visit is prohibited. Doing so can get your visit shut down.

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