How to set up your first visit at SCI Phoenix (IVS step-by-step)
Your first visit at SCI Phoenix starts online. Pennsylvania DOC uses the Inmate Visitation System (IVS) for scheduling both in-person and video visits. You'll verify your identity through Keystone Login before you can book anything.
Pennsylvania DOC handles all visitation scheduling - in-person and video - through the Inmate Visitation System (IVS). To set up a visit at SCI Phoenix, you'll first create an IVS account and verify your identity through Keystone Login. Once that's done, you'll use the same account to find open time slots and book your visit.
Note: Keystone Login is the identity verification Pennsylvania DOC uses for IVS.
Every visit - whether in person or by video - must be scheduled in advance through IVS. Start by creating your IVS account and completing the Keystone Login identity verification. Enter your details carefully. Mismatched information can slow the process down.
Note: If you’re 18 or older, you need your own IVS account. Minors don’t create separate accounts - they’re added under a parent/guardian (more on that below).
Once your account is set up, you'll add your loved one in IVS so you can schedule visits with the right person at SCI Phoenix. The system won't let you book unless you're on the inmate's authorized visitor list. Confirm you've been approved before trying to schedule - check with your loved one or the facility if you're not sure. Otherwise, you'll waste time clicking through dates you can't actually reserve.
After your account is verified and you're confirmed as an authorized visitor, head back into IVS to schedule. Choose your visit type (in-person or video), then pick from the available dates and times. Pay attention to the booking window. IVS has its own lead-time rules, and facility guidance can vary. Treat what you see in IVS as your starting point, and double-check with the facility if something doesn't match what you expected.
Booking window (per IVS): Visits must be scheduled at least 3 days in advance and can’t be scheduled more than 60 days ahead.
Use your IVS account for everything - scheduling, changes, and cancellations. Keep an eye on the email address tied to your account. That's where you'll get updates about your visit.
Bringing a child? You'll handle that inside your own account. Minors don't create separate IVS accounts - they're added under a parent or guardian's account instead. Anyone 18 or older needs their own account, including someone who was previously listed as a minor and has since turned 18.
Plan for security screening: All visitors and vehicles are subject to search. Everyone - including children - must pass through a metal detector. There's no waiting area for people who aren't visiting, so don't bring someone who can't enter just to "wait for you."
Run into problems? Can't schedule, don't see your name recognized, or have questions about your booking? Start by contacting the facility where your loved one is incarcerated. You can also email Central Office at RA-CRDOCINMATEVSS@pa.gov for help with scheduling questions. If the facility cancels a visit, watch the email connected to your IVS account for the cancellation notice and next steps.
Checklist
- ✓ Create your IVS account and complete Keystone Login identity verification
- ✓ Confirm you’re on the inmate’s authorized visitor list before trying to book
- ✓ Decide whether you’re scheduling an in-person visit or a video visit
- ✓ Check IVS for available dates/times and the current booking window (IVS states 3 days to 60 days out)
- ✓ Use the email tied to your IVS account and watch it for updates or cancellations
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