Getting on the Approved Visitor List: Your Complete Application Checklist
Getting approved to visit starts with the right form and clean paperwork. Use this checklist to complete the New Mexico Corrections Department visitor application correctly the first time, and to stay on top of renewals.
The form you need is the Visitor Application for Visiting Privileges (CD-100201.1). This isn't a one-and-done task. You'll need to resubmit it every two years for renewal. When filling out CD-100201.1, follow the instructions carefully: type it or print clearly in black ink, and answer every single question. NMCD treats omissions and falsifications as grounds to deny visiting privileges. "Close enough" can backfire on this form.
Rule to plan around: You can only visit if you are on the inmate’s current approved visitation list.
The process starts with the inmate, not you. The inmate has to request that your name be placed on their visiting list. After that, NMCD sends you the application to complete. Once you return the finished application, it goes through a review for approval or denial under NMCD visiting guidelines. Your name only gets added to the visiting list after the application is approved.
Common Pitfalls
- ✓ Print or type in black ink.
- ✓ Answer every question (don’t leave blanks).
- ✓ Include an original signature.
- ✓ Make sure all required dates are filled in.
- ✓ Include your Social Security number.
- ✓ Include your date of birth.
- ✓ Recheck the form for omissions before you send it.
- ✓ Don’t guess or “round” details. Omissions or falsifications can lead to denial.
Incomplete paperwork will cost you time. NMCD screens visiting forms for basics like original signatures, dates, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth. If anything required is missing, the visiting department will make you resubmit a new application. Accuracy matters just as much as completeness. The application explicitly warns that omissions or falsifications can be enough to deny visiting privileges. Take an extra minute to review every line before turning it in.
After you submit the application, NMCD reviews it and makes an approval or denial decision. You aren't officially approved until your name appears on the inmate's visiting list. If you have questions about visitation, Family Constituent Services is the department NMCD directs families to. They provide an email address and phone numbers for inquiries. One thing to know: they will not release offender health or mental health information without a current signed release from the offender.
Screening and searches: You'll sign a Visitor Statement of Understanding and may be questioned at the point of entry. NMCD can use canine units and mechanical drug detection devices, and search rules apply the entire time you're on institutional grounds. Refusing a required strip search results in cancellation or suspension of the visit.
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