Before Your First Visit to MCI Norfolk: Complete Checklist

You must be on the inmate's pre-approved visiting list before you can visit MCI Norfolk. Show up without approval and you'll likely be turned away - even if you drove hours to get there.

1. Get the Visitor Application Form - Fill it out completely.
2. Mail the completed application to MCI Norfolk - Your request for pre-approval is handled through the mailed form.

Once the application is submitted, the Department of Correction will process it and notify both you and the inmate whether you're approved or denied. Wait for that decision before planning your trip.

Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID for check-in. Common examples include a state driver’s license, passport, military ID, or another official photo ID issued by a state or federal agency.

Check MCI Norfolk's visiting hours before you go, and call to confirm the schedule. Hours can change without much notice, and a quick phone call can save you a wasted trip.

Children under 18 don't need to be pre-approved, but they do need the right adult with them. A minor must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who has physical custody and is already on the inmate's approved visiting list.

Not the child's parent or legal guardian with physical custody? You can't just bring them along and hope for the best. You'll need to submit a completed Minor Consent Form and get the Superintendent's approval before bringing a minor to visit.

• ✓ An original or copy of the child’s birth certificate
• ✓ Or official hospital records verifying the child’s birth, including the child’s date of birth and parent information

If you rely on life-saving medication or a medical device, plan ahead. You'll need prior approval from the Superintendent, plus written documentation signed by a health care professional confirming your need for the medication or device.

Even after you're approved, you'll need to handle this at the door every time. Declare the approved medication or device and show your written Superintendent approval at each visit.

Expect canine screening as part of the entry process. All visitors at MCI Norfolk are subject to passive drug-detection dog searches.

Sect Day of Intake

• ✓ Bring your valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, military ID, or other official state/federal photo ID)
• ✓ If you have approved life-saving medication or a medical device, bring your written Superintendent approval and the supporting medical documentation
• ✓ Declare any approved medication or device(s) at intake and be ready to show the written approval

1. Follow staff directions during screening - All visitors are subject to passive drug-detection dog searches.
2. Step out of line if asked - If the dog alerts, staff will ask you to step aside and consent to a search.
3. Decide whether to consent to the search - Refusing means you cannot visit and must leave the facility.

Before you head out, double-check visiting hours and call to verify - schedules change. Still waiting on your visitor application decision? Hold off on the trip until you and the inmate have been notified of approval.