How to Visit SCI Retreat (PA)
SCI Retreat visits go through the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections visitation system, and you can visit in person or by video. Here's how to plan your trip and avoid surprises at the door.
SCI Retreat offers both in-person and video visits, all managed through the Pennsylvania DOC visitation system. The key thing to know: you'll schedule your visit through the DOC's process. Don't plan on showing up and hoping for an open slot.
Visiting rules at SCI Retreat follow a department-wide policy called DC-ADM 812. This policy governs visiting privileges and procedures across all Pennsylvania DOC facilities, so it sets the baseline rules your visit needs to follow.
Note: Every visitor, regardless of age, will be searched and must pass through a metal detector. Vehicles on DOC property are also subject to search.
Steps to Follow
- ✓ Plan to schedule your visit in advance using the DOC Inmate Visitation System (IVS).
- ✓ Build in extra lead time when scheduling. One DOC source says visits must be scheduled at least two days in advance via IVS.
- ✓ Be ready to use Keystone Login. The IVS uses Keystone Login to verify your identity for scheduling and joining visits.
- Arrive ready for screening. Everyone entering is subject to search, and you will go through a metal detector.
- Keep your vehicle in compliance. Vehicles on DOC property can be searched, so don’t bring anything you would not want inspected.
- Follow staff instructions promptly. Screening is part of entry, and delays can cut into your visit time.
Scheduling is the biggest detail to nail down before you make plans. Visits must be scheduled in advance through the DOC Inmate Visitation System (IVS), and one DOC source states visits need to be scheduled at least two days ahead. Verify the exact scheduling window for SCI Retreat before you pick a date.
You'll also want to sort out Keystone Login before visit day. The DOC uses Keystone Login through IVS to verify your identity for scheduling and joining visits. Make sure you know which login to use and that you can actually access it when it matters, especially for video visits.
Tip: If your situation is complicated (eligibility questions, restrictions, required documentation), check DC-ADM 812 or contact SCI Retreat directly to confirm what applies to you.
- ✓ What screening steps are used at entry, including metal detector procedures
- ✓ Whether any specific items are prohibited because all visitors are subject to search
- ✓ What to expect for vehicle access and vehicle searches on DOC property
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