How to visit, scheduling, dress code, and visitor requirements
Start with the facility's Inmate Visitor Information Brochure, which covers visitor approval, admission requirements, visiting schedules, and screening procedures. All adult visitors must register using their legal name and present a valid government-issued photo ID for video visitation. Visiting from home? Log into the GTL system about 15 minutes before your scheduled start time. If you're using an AFOI Visitor Center, arrive at least 20 minutes early and leave cell phones, pagers, laptops, gaming systems, and other portable electronics outside. Schedules, contact versus non-contact rules, and visit length vary by location, so check the brochure and VADOC visitation guidance before you plan. You'll also need to submit visitor applications and background authorizations to the Central Visitation Unit and wait for approval. Out-of-state applicants should expect longer processing times.
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VADOC video visits come in two formats through its partnership with Assisting Families of Inmates (AFOI). Here's how to choose the option that fits your technology, schedule, and household needs.
VADOC guidance can sound contradictory because different visit types have different requirements. Here's how to tell whether you need the formal visitation application or can go straight to the Visitation Scheduler.
Applying to visit someone in a Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) prison? Your approval timeline depends on where you live. Here's what to expect and how to avoid delays.
Getting approved ahead of time and showing up early makes visiting much smoother. Here are the rules that trip people up most often, plus the exact steps to follow.
Planning a video visit with kids? VADOC has a few rules that catch families off guard. Follow the guidelines below to keep everyone included and avoid having the visit cut short.
Your first VADOC video visit goes much smoother when you handle registration, ID, timing, and dress code ahead of time. Use the checklist below to get ready the day before, then follow the timing steps on visit day so you don't miss your slot.
A VADOC video visit can end suddenly if staff spot a rule violation. Knowing the most common reasons visits get cut off can help you protect your time, your money, and your future visiting privileges.
Adults must register using their legal name and bring a valid government-issued photo ID that matches their visitor registration for video visitation. Minors must be listed on an approved adult visitor’s application and be accompanied by that approved adult.
Yes. You must be registered and approved before scheduling visits. Submit visitor applications and background authorizations to the Central Visitation Unit, then wait for approval before booking.
No. Visitor Centers do not allow cell phones, pagers, laptops, gaming systems, or other portable electronics. Leave those items outside the Visitor Center.
If you're using Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) video visitation, don't record, film, take pictures, or screenshot the visit. These actions are prohibited and can cost you future visits.
One missing detail on your envelope can get mail to a Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) facility delayed, misrouted, or sent back. Use the exact fields below, written clearly and matched to VADOC records.
Staying in touch with someone at Marion Correctional Treatment Center? Your main options are video visitation (either from home or at a Visitor Center) and phone calls through the state's phone provider.
