How to Qualify for an Extended Family Visit (EFV) and What You Can Bring
Extended Family Visits (EFVs) take more planning than a standard visit, but the rules are straightforward once you know them. Here you'll find the key eligibility requirements, what the review process looks like, and packing rules for food and bags so you can apply and prepare with fewer surprises.
Your visitation history determines whether you can apply for an EFV. You need at least six visits in the past 12 months to qualify.
There's also an in-person requirement. At least one of those six visits in the 12-month window must be in person. Make sure you've met that threshold before starting the application packet.
Timing heads-up: EFV applications can take more than 12 weeks to process. Build in plenty of lead time before the date you're hoping to visit.
EFV applications require a specific form. You’ll need to submit the DOC 21-415 Extended Family Visit Application/Acknowledgment as part of your paperwork.
- Pick your submission window carefully - EFV applications may only be submitted once per year, so it’s worth waiting until you’re ready to submit a complete packet.
- Plan for a long review timeline - processing may take in excess of 12 weeks, so submit well ahead of any dates you have in mind.
- Track your year - since you only get one submission annually, keep notes on when you applied and when you’ll be eligible to submit again if you need to.
Once your EFV packet is complete, it passes through several levels of review. The Headquarters EFV Unit reviews it first, then sends it to the facility case manager and Health Services. From there, the Facility Risk Management Team weighs in, and the superintendent (or designee) makes the final call.
Expect multiple steps: The Facility Risk Management Team review may be part of your process, so don't be caught off guard if it takes several rounds before you get a final answer.
Allowed Items
- ✓ Bring only food in transparent or semi-transparent packaging
- ✓ Food must be prepackaged
- ✓ Packages must be factory-sealed or store-sealed
- ✓ Examples of allowable food include deli meat, seafood, bread, and bakery items
- ✓ One suitcase, backpack, or duffel bag only, and it must fit through the facility X-ray or scanning machine
Heads up on food: Any food you bring for an EFV will be searched in the presence of the visitor(s).
- Fill out DOC 21-415 - the DOC 21-415 Extended Family Visit Application/Acknowledgment is required for EFV applicants.
- Confirm you meet the visit minimum - you need at least six visits within the past 12 months.
- Double-check the in-person visit - among those six visits, at least one must be in person.
- ✓ Build in time for review, EFV applications may take in excess of 12 weeks to process
- ✓ Stick to transparent or semi-transparent, prepackaged, factory- or store-sealed food only (for example deli meat, seafood, bread, bakery items)
- ✓ Pack in a single suitcase, backpack, or duffel bag that fits through the facility X-ray or scanning machine
- ✓ Expect the food you bring to be searched in your presence
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