How to Get Approved to Visit Someone at Orleans Parish Prison
Visiting someone at Orleans Parish Prison starts with getting your name approved through Louisiana DOC's visitor application process. The steps are straightforward: get the right form, fill it out completely, mail it in, and wait for the decision to be put on file.
Orleans Parish visits follow Louisiana Department of Corrections visitation regulations. Here's the key thing to know up front: you don't start this process yourself. Prospective visitors can only apply after the incarcerated person requests it - so your first move is usually waiting for them to send you the paperwork.
The form you need is the Application for Visiting Privileges (Form C-02-008-A). You'll typically get it from the person you want to visit - offenders are responsible for sending applications to family and friends they want on their visiting list. Haven't received anything yet? That usually means they haven't requested one be sent to you.
Note: If the visitor is under 18, a parent or legal guardian has to complete the application and sign it on the minor’s behalf.
Fill out the application completely. Louisiana DOC is clear that missing information can slow things down or lead to a denial. The most avoidable delays come from skipped questions, incomplete identifying details, or missing signatures - especially when submitting for a minor child. If something doesn't apply to you, don't leave it blank. Answer it the way the form instructs so it doesn't look like you missed it.
- ✓ Every question is answered (no blanks)
- ✓ All requested personal details are filled in exactly as asked
- ✓ All required signatures are included
- ✓ If the visitor is under 18, the parent/legal guardian completed the form and signed for the minor
Once the form is complete, mail it to the facility. Faxed applications are not accepted. Applying on behalf of a minor? Make sure the parent or legal guardian has completed and signed the application before you mail it - a missing signature will hold up the process.
After your application arrives, the facility runs a criminal history background check on each adult applicant. You can't visit until your approved application is on file - so even after mailing it, you need to wait for the decision to be processed and recorded before trying to see someone in person.
If an active warrant turns up during screening, your application won't just move forward like normal. The facility will review it and notify local law enforcement with the information you provided. If there's any chance this applies to you, handle it before you apply. Showing up to "see what happens" can create real problems.
When a decision is made, the facility notifies the offender - not you. They're responsible for telling you whether you were approved or denied, so expect to get your update directly from the person you're trying to visit.
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- ✓ You’re using the correct form: Application for Visiting Privileges (Form C-02-008-A)
- ✓ The form is filled out completely (no missing information)
- ✓ All required signatures are on the form
- ✓ For visitors under 18, the parent/legal guardian completed and signed the application
- Give the facility time to process screening - your application has to be reviewed and approved before you can visit, and the approved application must be on file first.
- Check in with the offender for the decision - the facility notifies the offender of approval or denial, and the offender is responsible for letting you know the outcome.
- Confirm you’re approved before you try to visit - ask whether your approved application is on file so you don’t make the trip and get turned away at check-in.
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