Before Your First Michigan DOC Visit: The Complete Application Checklist
Your first Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) visit hinges on one thing: getting approved on the prisoner's visiting list. This checklist walks you through submitting the right application the right way—so you're not waiting any longer than necessary.
If you want to be added to someone’s MDOC visiting list, you’ll complete the CAJ-103 (MDOC Visiting Application). MDOC accepts that application through the Department’s approved electronic process or by U.S. mail, so you can choose the method that fits you best.
Here's the catch: even if you're ready to apply, the prisoner has to request you first. Visitors are only added at the prisoner's request. Not sure if you're already on the list? Reach out to the prisoner and ask them to add you before you spend time on the application.
- Create or sign in to MiLogin - Online visiting applications are submitted through MiLogin.
- Complete the CAJ-103 (MDOC Visiting Application) - Fill it out fully so it can be processed.
- Submit the application electronically - Once you finish the MiLogin steps, your online visiting application is submitted.
- Watch your email for the decision - MDOC sends a response to your email when your application is processed, letting you know whether you can visit.
- Plan for processing time - Processing can take up to 4 weeks, so submit as early as you can.
- Complete the CAJ-103 (MDOC Visiting Application) - This is the same application used for online submission.
- Mail it to the facility where the prisoner is located - Your paperwork needs to go to the prison where the person is housed.
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope - The facility uses it to mail you a response once your application is processed.
- Expect a wait - Mailed applications can take up to 4 weeks to process.
Documents Attach
- ✓ CAJ-1037 (LEIN Request), if your visitor type requires it
- ✓ Any documents the facility requests to verify the relationship between you and the prisoner
Note: Some visitors (including certain child welfare workers who aren’t employed by a state agency and representatives acting on behalf of an attorney) must submit a CAJ-1037 (LEIN Request) with the visiting application. You can get the CAJ-1037 by contacting the facility.
MDOC uses several visiting forms, and the name matters. CAJ-103 is the standard MDOC Visiting Application - the one most first-time family and friends need. CAJ-334 is the Visitor List form tied to who the prisoner wants on their list. Outreach volunteers use CAJ-356 (Outreach Volunteer Application). Attorneys, DHHS (Child Welfare) staff, and SOM employees have their own form: CAJ-1069. And if your visitor category requires it, CAJ-1037 is the LEIN Request that must accompany your visiting application.
Whether you submit online or by mail, approval isn't instant - processing can take up to 4 weeks. Applied through MiLogin? You'll get an email when it's processed. Mailed your application? The facility will send a response to the self-addressed stamped envelope you included.
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