How to schedule a visit at SCI Somerset (step-by-step IVS & Keystone guide)

To schedule a visit at SCI Somerset, you'll use Pennsylvania's Inmate Visitation System (IVS) and log in through Keystone Login. The system cross-checks your registration details against the incarcerated person's authorized visitor list - so everything you enter needs to match what the facility has on file.

Step1 Create Account

• ✓ Your full legal name (enter it exactly the way it appears on the authorized visitor list)
• ✓ Your date of birth
• ✓ Your current address
• ✓ A valid email address
• ✓ An IVS account for every visitor age 18+
• ✓ One parent/guardian IVS account for minors (minors are added under the adult account)

Go to the PA DOC Inmate Visitation System sign-in page and choose the option to sign in through Keystone Login. Once you’re in, follow the prompts to create your IVS profile using your legal information.

Before you can schedule anything, you have to be on the incarcerated person’s authorized visitor list. IVS uses that list to confirm you’re allowed to visit, and you also need it in place to add the person to your IVS account for scheduling.

Kids work differently. Minors don't create their own IVS accounts - they're added under a parent or guardian's account. Any children participating in a visit also need a DC-313 visitor form on file.

1. Confirm you’re on the authorized visitor list - you won’t be able to schedule until the incarcerated person has you listed as an approved visitor.
2. Have the incarcerated person submit the needed paperwork - if you’re not on the list yet, they’re the one who has to start the process to add you.
3. Wait until the list update is reflected in IVS - once you’re authorized, you can add the incarcerated person to your IVS account and move forward with scheduling.

Both in-person and video visits at SCI Somerset must be scheduled ahead of time through IVS. That's where you'll pick your visit type, see available time slots, and reserve your appointment.

1. Log in to IVS through Keystone - use the same account you created for your visitor profile.
2. Add the incarcerated person to your account - you can only do this if you’re on their authorized visitor list.
3. Choose your visit type - select in-person or video.
4. Pick an available time slot - choose from the openings shown in IVS and submit the request to lock it in.

The most common snag? A mismatch between your IVS registration and the authorized visitor list. Even small differences trip people up - a nickname instead of your legal first name, an outdated address, or a typo in your date of birth. Your email matters too: IVS uses it to send visit confirmations and updates, so make sure it's valid and one you actually check.

1. Compare your IVS profile to what the facility has - check your name, date of birth, and address for exact matches.
2. Confirm your email is correct and active - use an address you can access reliably, since visit updates are sent there.
3. Fix the mismatched field(s) in your IVS registration - correct typos and update outdated information so it aligns with the authorized visitor list.
4. If you’re still not validating, confirm your authorized status - make sure you’re actually on the incarcerated person’s authorized visitor list before trying again.

Keep an eye on your inbox after scheduling. If the facility cancels your visit, IVS sends a notification to the email linked to your account.

• ✓ Re-check that your IVS registration details match the authorized visitor list (name, DOB, address, and email)
• ✓ Confirm you’re on the incarcerated person’s authorized visitor list before trying to schedule again
• ✓ If you’re still blocked, contact SCI Somerset for help with IVS/visitation troubleshooting