How to Schedule Your First Visit to SCI Cambridge Springs (IVS step-by-step)
Scheduling your first visit is mostly about getting IVS set up correctly. Once your account matches the authorized visitor list, booking a time slot is the easy part.
At SCI Cambridge Springs, all visits are scheduled through the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Inmate Visitation System (IVS). This applies to both in-person contact visits and video visits, and you need to book ahead of time. One thing worth knowing: if the facility has to cancel your visit, they'll notify you through the email tied to your IVS account. Use an email you actually check.
- Create your Keystone/IVS account - You need an IVS account before you can schedule anything.
- Enter your information carefully - Use your legal name and provide the details the system asks for (including your date of birth and address).
- Keep one account only - Each visitor should have a single account. Creating multiple accounts can interfere with approval and scheduling.
- Make sure your details match the authorized visitor list - If your name or other identifying details do not match what the facility has on file for approved visitors, you can run into problems when you try to link and schedule.
- Link your account to the incarcerated person you want to visit - After your account is set up, add the incarcerated person to your account so you can view available visits and request a time slot.
Note: You cannot add an incarcerated person in IVS unless you are already on their authorized visitor list.
Before IVS will let you schedule at SCI Cambridge Springs, you must be on the incarcerated person's authorized visitor list. If you're trying to set up a visit and can't link to the person, that's the first thing to check. Also, IVS guidance states that a DC-313 must be present for any children participating. Make sure child visitors are properly documented before you try to schedule them.
IVS has a 60-day booking window. You can't schedule a visit more than 60 days out, so if you're planning ahead, you may need to wait until your preferred date falls inside that window before you can reserve it.
Heads up: The minimum lead time is inconsistent across sources. One PA DOC page says visits must be scheduled at least 2 days in advance, while the IVS site and the Visitor Guide say at least 3 days. When you book, follow what IVS actually allows for your chosen date. If you're cutting it close, confirm with the facility directly.
If you're stuck, make sure you're contacting the right place. The Keystone Login Help Desk only handles Keystone Login account issues. They can't help with IVS-specific questions. If your problem involves linking to an incarcerated person, visitor authorization, or scheduling, reach out to SCI Cambridge Springs directly.
For scheduling questions, contact SCI Cambridge Springs directly. You can also email the Central Office at RA-CRDOCINMATEVSS@pa.gov for help with IVS scheduling issues.
Quick Checklist
- ✓ Create your Keystone/IVS account (use accurate personal details).
- ✓ Confirm you are on the incarcerated person’s authorized visitor list before trying to link and schedule.
- ✓ Choose a date that is within 60 days (IVS does not allow bookings beyond that).
- ✓ Schedule far enough ahead. Sources differ on whether the minimum is 2 days or 3 days, so plan for 3 days when you can and verify what IVS will accept.
- ✓ Watch the email connected to your IVS account for confirmations, changes, or cancellations.
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