How Virtual Visits Work at Wateree River: Scheduling, Cost, Tech Checks, and What to Expect
Virtual visits at Wateree River are straightforward once you understand the setup rules, the scheduling window, and what you'll need to show on camera. This guide covers the most common last-minute problems so you can avoid them.
You must be on the inmate's approved visitation list before you can request a virtual visit. If you're not on the list yet, you won't be able to schedule anything until that approval goes through.
Everyone who plans to participate needs their own visitor account through the GTL VisitMe portal (one account per visitor), even if you'll all be on the same call. Use your legal name and make sure it matches the approved visitation list exactly. Nicknames can cause problems at check-in.
If your name needs to be fixed: For visitation-list or name-change help, email VirtualVisitation@doc.sc.gov (include your information and a copy of your ID) or call (803) 896-1838, press #1, and leave your name and a good callback number.
Plan ahead. Virtual visits must be scheduled at least three days in advance and no more than seven days in advance.
If something comes up, you can try to modify your scheduled visit up to two days in advance. Cancellations need to be made at least one day in advance.
Keep the group small. A maximum of four approved visitors can join a virtual visit, and approved minor children count toward that total.
Have your ID ready to hold up to the camera. Approved visitors age 10 and older will need to show a photo ID at check-in.
The ID rule is different for younger kids. Approved minor children under age 10 need a certified long-form birth certificate as identification.
Pricing has shifted in SCDC materials over time, so you may see more than one rate floating around. The Virtual Visitation FAQs document lists a flat rate of $10 for a 50-minute visit. It also explains that visits start on the hour, you're charged when the visit begins, and there are no partial refunds if either side ends early. A newer SCDC memo announces a per-minute rate of $0.16 effective Feb. 1, 2025, which would bring a 50-minute visit down from $10 to $8.
Verify the current price before you schedule. If billing is truly per-minute at $0.16, a full 50-minute visit would cost $8, and a shorter visit could cost less. That said, the FAQs also state there are no partial refunds once a visit begins. Check the live pricing shown at checkout so you aren't caught off guard.
- Use a compatible device - Virtual visits can be done on a computer, tablet, or Android phone. iPhones are not compatible right now.
- Join early and test your setup - You can click the Play button up to 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to start the WebRTC session and confirm your camera and audio are working.
- ✓ Technical help during virtual visitation: GTL Visitor Support at 1-855-208-7349
- ✓ Visitation-list or name-change help: VirtualVisitation@doc.sc.gov or (803) 896-1838 (press #1)
All virtual visits are recorded and can be reviewed for appropriateness. If anything inappropriate happens, the visit can be terminated on the spot, and you may lose your virtual visitation privileges.
Location matters. Certain settings are off-limits for virtual visits, including bedrooms and bathrooms. If you're unsure about your surroundings, move to a neutral common area before you join.
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