How to Schedule Your First Visit to a Virginia Prison: Step-by-Step
Your first visit takes a little planning, but the process is straightforward once you know the timing rules, what to bring, and what to double-check before you head out.
In the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), visitor applications expire three years after the approval date. That matters more than most people realize. An expired approval can stop a visit before it starts, even if you've been there plenty of times before.
If you live in Virginia, plan your renewal early. VADOC says in-state visitors should submit a new, updated online application at least 45 days before the expiration date so your visitation privileges continue without a gap.
Live out of state? Give yourself a longer runway. VADOC recommends submitting your renewed online visitor application at least 90 days before your approval expires so there's no gap in your ability to schedule and attend visits.
Start by completing the VADOC online visitation application. Once approved, that approval is good for three years. Take an extra minute to make sure the information you enter matches your photo ID exactly. If the details don't line up, you can run into problems when you show up to visit.
- ✓ At least one valid photo ID that matches the information on your application
- ✓ A Driver’s License
- ✓ A Passport (only for visitors who do not reside in the United States)
- ✓ A Military ID
- ✓ Another official picture ID issued by a federal or state agency
Once approved, you can schedule visits up to 14 days in advance. If you're coordinating travel, time off work, or childcare, that two-week window is the main planning constraint to keep in mind.
VADOC limits visitors to one visit per weekend. If you're hoping to visit more than once in a short span, you'll need to spread those visits across different weekends.
Most VADOC institutions allow visiting on Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays. The details aren't one-size-fits-all, though. Visitation procedures vary by facility and can change, so don't assume last month's routine still applies.
Bring at least one valid photo ID, and make sure it matches your visitor application exactly. This is not optional. VADOC requires a valid, government-issued picture ID, and staff will compare it to the information you submitted.
- ✓ Driver’s License
- ✓ Passport (only for those who do not reside in the United States)
- ✓ Military ID
- ✓ Other official picture ID issued by a federal or state agency
Plan to arrive one hour before your scheduled visit. VADOC specifically asks visitors to get there early for security screening. Arriving late can put your entire visit at risk.
No food or drinks: You cannot bring food or drinks into the facility, and you will not have access to vending machines during the visit. Eat and hydrate before you arrive.
If you're applying for a minor to visit, the child's application has to be attached to an approved adult visitor application. Handle the adult application first, then add the child so everything stays connected in the approval process.
VADOC approves minors who are immediate family only for contact visits. If you're planning a child's first visit, keep that in mind when setting expectations and preparing the paperwork you'll need at the door.
- Bring the required proof every time: When you bring a minor to visit, the accompanying adult must present a completed notarized statement or a copy of the court order.
- Do not assume they will “have it on file”: VADOC requires this documentation each visit, so keep a ready-to-go copy with your visit paperwork.
VADOC provides reasonable accommodations during visitation for people with disabilities. If you have a mobility impairment, contact the facility before visiting so accommodations can be in place when you arrive. Need to bring a service or guide animal into the visitation area? Submit a request to the facility ahead of time and get approval before the visit.
- Bring medical documentation if you cannot use the electronic scanning device: If you are pregnant or have a medical condition that prevents you from going through the electronic scanning device, bring documentation from your medical provider confirming you cannot pass through it. An alternate search procedure will be offered.
- Get approval to carry medication on your person: If you need to enter with medication kept on your person, obtain a doctor’s note stating the medication must be maintained on you.
- Contact the facility at least one week ahead: At least one week before the scheduled visit, contact the Facility Unit Head (or designee) to request approval to enter the facility with the medication.
Before you travel, check the VADOC website for facility-specific visitation updates. That's where VADOC posts changes like cancellations and video visit hours, sometimes down to the housing unit level.
Even though most institutions offer visiting on weekends and state holidays, procedures vary by facility and can change at any time. A quick check right before you leave can save you a wasted trip.
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