Visiting in Massachusetts prisons: applications, approvals, and ID rules
- Get on the pre-approved list first. Massachusetts says the incarcerated person must add you to their pre-approved visiting list before you can visit.
- Fill out the Visitor Application. Massachusetts directs visitors to complete a Visitor Application Form.
- Mail the application to the correct institution. Massachusetts says you must mail the completed form to the specific institution you intend to visit.
- Watch for the decision. Massachusetts states that after the Visitor Application is processed, both you and the incarcerated person will be notified of approval or denial.
- Bring valid photo ID to the visit. Massachusetts lists acceptable valid photo IDs such as a state driver’s license, passport, military ID, or an official photo ID card from a state or federal agency.
- Use the same approvals for video visits. Massachusetts DOC guidance says video visitors must complete the pre-approval process and be on the person’s pre-approved visiting list before scheduling, and people are directed to create an account on Securus Video Visitation.
Warning: Visiting hours, arrival cutoffs, and how many people can visit at once are institution-specific. One federal facility's visiting memo says visitors arriving after 2:30 p.m. will not be admitted and limits visiting groups to a set number of people, including children.
Federal facility rules can include additional restrictions that differ from Massachusetts DOC. One federal institution's visiting guidance explains that some units may receive video visitation while other units use an in-person visiting room. There are also age limitations: minors need to be accompanied by a legal guardian or qualifying adult.
Common Questions
Q
How do I put someone on an inmate's pre-approved visiting list and apply to visit?
In Massachusetts state prisons, your loved one must add you to their pre-approved visiting list, then you complete the Visitor Application Form and mail it to the institution you intend to visit. After it is processed, Massachusetts says both you and the incarcerated person will be notified of approval or denial.
Q
What ID do I need to bring to a visit?
Massachusetts DOC requires a valid photo ID, and it lists examples such as a state driver’s license, passport, military ID, or an official photo ID card from a state or federal agency. Bring the ID you plan to use every time, and confirm any extra requirements with the facility before you go.
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