How to Apply for Visiting Approval at River North Correctional Center (and Keep It Active)
Visiting at River North Correctional Center starts with approval from Virginia DOC's Central Visitation Unit. Know what they check and when renewals are due, and you'll avoid surprise interruptions that could derail your visits.
Everyone who wants to visit - adults and minors alike - must submit the Virginia DOC visitor application online and get approved by the Central Visitation Unit before River North will let them through the door. This applies even if you've visited other facilities or you're bringing a child.
- Complete the online visitor application - Submit the DOC visitor application online so the Central Visitation Unit can review it.
- Use legal names and include minors correctly - Enter names exactly as they appear on identification, and make sure any minors who will visit are listed on the adult’s application.
- Match your ID to your application - Plan to bring valid picture ID that matches what you submitted, because mismatches can create problems at check-in.
Once you submit your application, the Central Visitation Unit runs several checks before making a decision. They pull VCIN background checks for anyone 15 or older, look for any visitor suspensions, and review the VACORIS database. If something needs extra verification, it can slow down your approval.
Heads up: Background and records checks take time, and some applications get denied. Give yourself extra time before booking travel.
After you submit your application online, the Central Visitation Unit reviews it before you can visit. You'll receive an approval notification when you're cleared - wait for that confirmation before making firm plans.
Your visiting approval expires three years after the approval date. To keep visiting without a gap, you'll need to renew before that deadline hits.
- ✓ In-state visitors: submit a new, updated online visitor application at least 45 days before your approval expires to avoid an interruption.
- ✓ Out-of-state visitors: submit a new, updated online visitor application at least 90 days before your approval expires to avoid an interruption.
Reminder: That three-year expiration is fixed. Renewing within the 45/90-day windows keeps your privileges active while your new application processes - don't wait until the last minute.
Practical Tips
- ✓ Use your exact legal name on the application (the same name shown on your ID).
- ✓ Bring at least one valid picture ID that matches your application.
- ✓ Acceptable ID includes a driver’s license, a passport (only for people who do not reside in the United States), a military ID, or another official picture ID issued by a federal or state agency.
Bringing a child? Make sure they're listed on the application the way DOC requires. Minors need approval too, and including them upfront prevents problems when you arrive.
Don't cut your renewal close. Submit your updated application at least 45 days early if you're in-state, or 90 days early if you're out-of-state. That gives the Central Visitation Unit time to finish the review before your current approval expires.
- ✓ Arrive one hour before your visit time so you have enough time for security screening.
- ✓ Don’t bring food or drinks - none are allowed inside.
- ✓ Plan as if you won’t be able to buy snacks or drinks during your visit, because there’s no access to vending machines.
Before you make the trip to River North Correctional Center, call ahead to confirm current visitation procedures. Schedules and day-to-day rules can vary by institution and change without much notice. A quick call can save you a wasted trip.
Note: Visits are typically allowed on Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays - but always confirm River North's current schedule before you go.
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