Getting Approved to Visit Montana State Prison: Okta, the 90-Day Review, and Visitor Updates

Before applying for in-person visitation online, you need to create an Okta account. Okta is basically your login to Montana DOC's online system - without it, you can't start the visitation application.

Once your Okta account is ready, you'll complete the online Visitation Application. This is what the facility uses to decide whether you can visit an inmate in person - so submitting it is the real start of the approval process.

After you submit your application, expect a review period of up to 90 days - though it often moves faster. If you're planning travel or coordinating with family, build in that buffer. Don't count on a quick turnaround.

• ✓ Fill out every part of the online application before you submit it
• ✓ Double-check spelling (especially names) so your information matches what the facility has on file
• ✓ Review your entries for typos and missing details - small mistakes can slow a review
• ✓ If the application asks for documents or uploads, make sure they’re included and easy to read

Already approved but your information changed? Use the Visitor Information Update Form to update your records. This keeps your visitor file current without starting a whole new application.

Even after approval, the facility limits how often an inmate can receive in-person visits. At Montana State Prison, inmates get one in-person visit per week. Coordinate with other approved visitors before locking in your plans.

Visitor limits also depend on housing location. High-side visits allow up to five visitors. Low-side visits allow up to three. Planning to bring multiple family members? Confirm you're within the limit for that housing area before you go.