How Long It Really Takes to Get Approved to Visit at Larch Corrections
Trying to plan a visit at Larch Corrections? The biggest holdup is usually the visitor application. Here's the timeline Washington DOC uses, plus the one mistake that can reset your wait.
Washington DOC processes visit applications in the order they're received. The posted timeline: applications may take up to 45 business days, and longer if additional review is needed. Expect weeks, not days.
- ✓ Watch your email. Visitors are notified by email when their application has been processed.
The DOC's guideline is up to 45 business days to process a visitor application. That "business days" part matters: weekends don't count. And some applications take even longer if additional review is needed.
Applications are handled in the order received, so your timing depends on where you land in line. Submit later, and you're behind earlier applications, even if your paperwork is perfect.
Note: The DOC asks visitors not to request status updates so staff can focus on processing. You'll get an email once your application has been reviewed.
Worried your application didn't go through? Don't fix it by submitting another one. The DOC's rule is clear: do not submit more than one visitor application. Any additional application voids the previous one and restarts the processing timeframe from scratch.
- Submit once - Sending a second application can void the first and restart the processing timeframe.
- Track your email - The DOC notifies visitors by email when an application has been processed, so use that message as your sign that the application made it through the system.
- Wait out the processing window before taking action - Since applications can take up to 45 business days (unless additional review is necessary), avoid reapplying just because it’s taking longer than you hoped.
"Approved" means more than just a yes. The DOC's process has to be fully completed before you can be placed on the incarcerated person's Approved Visitor List. Until you're on that list, don't assume you'll be able to visit.
- ✓ Wait for the email that your visitor application has been processed.
- ✓ Make sure the approval process is complete so you can be placed on the incarcerated person’s Approved Visitor List.
- ✓ Book travel only after you have that processed-notification email, so you’re not spending money before you’re cleared.
Practical Checklist
- ✓ Gather all required documentation before you start the online visitor application to avoid delays.
- ✓ Complete a separate visitor application for each person who wants to visit (adult or minor).
- ✓ Submit only one application per visitor. Submitting another one can void the first and restart the processing timeframe.
- ✓ Wait for the email that your application has been processed before you make firm plans.
Warning: Reapplying can reset your wait back to the beginning. If you're still inside the up-to-45-business-day window, the fastest path is to stick with your original application.
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