How Long Will My Visitor Application Take at Washington State Penitentiary — and the One-List Rule

Right now, Washington DOC reports visitor applications are taking about 50 business days from submission. That's business days only - weekends and holidays don't count - and some cases take longer if extra review is needed. Applications are processed in the order they arrive, so the Statewide Visit Unit asks that you skip the status check-ins while you wait.

One more thing: Washington DOC only accepts the Electronic Visit Application for prison visits. If you're planning to visit WSP, make sure you use the electronic process from the start.

Before You Apply

• ✓ Have a valid, current photo ID ready if you’re 18 or older; international visitors must use a passport.
• ✓ Plan to complete the Electronic Visit Application (DOC only accepts electronic applications for prison visits).
• ✓ Remember you can’t be placed on someone’s Approved Visitor List until your application approval process is completed.

For Washington prisons, including Washington State Penitentiary, you'll apply through the Electronic Visit Application - paper applications aren't accepted. Take your time filling out the online form before you hit submit. The approval process has to be completed before you can be added to an incarcerated individual's Approved Visitor List.

If your application feels like it's taking forever, resist the urge to submit another one. DOC processes applications in the order they arrive, and current processing is running about 50 business days. Submit a duplicate, and you could void your earlier application entirely - pushing yourself to the back of the line. DOC also asks that you hold off on multiple status inquiries while you wait.

Washington DOC uses an Approved Visitor List system. You have to complete the application and get approved before your name goes on anyone's list. Here's the catch: under the "one-list" rule, a visitor can only be on one incarcerated individual's list at a time. The exception is immediate family. So if you want to visit more than one person in custody, this rule could complicate things.

1. Send a written removal request - To be taken off an Approved Visitor List, you must send a written request to the Headquarters/Statewide Visit Unit by mail or email.
2. Plan for the 90-day wait - Once you’re removed, you must wait 90 calendar days before applying to visit the same or another incarcerated individual, unless the waiting period is waived in limited circumstances (for example, if you never visited the person you were listed for, or you haven’t visited in the last 90 days).

If your application is taking longer than expected, contact the visit staff at the facility where you plan to visit. No answer? Leave a voicemail with the incarcerated individual's six-digit DOC number and a brief summary of what you need. Keep in mind that processing currently runs around 50 business days, and DOC asks that you avoid multiple status inquiries. One clear message is better than repeated calls.