How to send messages, photos, and packages
Mail to Salem Correctional Facility falls into two categories: general and special. General correspondence gets routinely inspected. Special mail—if properly marked—may only be opened in the inmate's presence to verify it qualifies. Many West Virginia facilities scan incoming letters and deliver a printed or electronic copy instead of the original. Don't send irreplaceable photos or documents unless the facility specifically requests them. Every envelope needs the inmate's full name and identification number, plus your complete return name and address. Watch the enclosure rules closely: attachments and loose items are commonly prohibited, photos may face size or format restrictions, and books usually must ship directly from a publisher or approved vendor.
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Address the envelope with the inmate’s full name and ID number, and include your full return name and address. If Salem posts specific formatting rules, follow those exactly.
Many West Virginia facilities scan incoming mail and deliver a printed or electronic copy rather than the original letter and envelope, so originals may not be returned. Check Salem’s current mail rules for any exceptions.
Usually, no—most facilities prohibit attachments or loose enclosures, and photos are often restricted with size or format limits. Books and publications typically must come directly from a publisher, bookstore, or approved vendor.
Bringing a child to visit takes extra preparation. Salem Correctional Facility has specific rules for adding minors to your visit—here's what you need to know about the WV Juvenile Visiting Request process.
Getting approved to visit starts with the West Virginia Juvenile Visiting Request. Fill it out completely, send it to the right address, and follow up properly—you'll avoid most delays.
Visiting someone at Salem Correctional Facility starts with getting your name cleared through West Virginia's Juvenile Visiting Request process. Here's a practical walkthrough of what the form asks, where to send it, and what happens after you submit.
