Getting Approved to Visit Someone at WCCW: What to Expect and How Long It Takes

Yes - you need to apply before visiting WCCW. Every person who wants to visit must complete and submit their own visitor application. That includes children. If you're bringing a minor, expect to fill out a separate application for them too.

Once you submit, watch your email. You'll be notified by email when your application has been processed, so use an address you check regularly.

Washington DOC only accepts electronic applications for prison visits. You'll fill everything out online - there's no paper option to mail in.

• ✓ If you’re 18 or older: a valid, current photo ID (like a driver’s license or state-issued ID)
• ✓ If you’re an international visitor: your passport

Applications are processed in the order they're received. Processing can take up to 45 business days - longer if additional review is needed. That's weekdays only, so the wait can feel longer than you'd expect if you're counting calendar days. Planning travel? Build that wait time into your timeline. The system won't move faster because your visit is coming up. Hold off on firm arrangements until you've received confirmation that your application has been processed.

Approval is what gets you onto the incarcerated person's Approved Visitor List. Submitting isn't enough - you won't be considered approved until the process is fully complete.

Worried there's a cap on how many visitors can be approved? One less thing to stress about - there's no limit to the number of people on an incarcerated person's approved visitor list.

ID Day of Visit

• ✓ If you’re 18 or older: a valid, current photo ID (driver’s license or state-issued ID)
• ✓ If you’re an international visitor: your passport