Visit someone in prison

Use this service to request a social visit to a prisoner in England or Wales. There’s a different way to book a prison visit in Northern Ireland or a prison visit in Scotland.

To use this service you need the:

  • prisoner number
  • prisoner’s date of birth
  • dates of birth for all visitors coming with you

If you do not have the prisoner’s location or prisoner number, use the ‘Find a prisoner’ service.

You can choose up to 3 dates and times you prefer. The prison will email you to confirm when you can visit.

The prisoner must add you to their visitor list before you can request a visit. This can take up to 2 weeks.

Request a prison visit

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Visits you cannot book through this service

Contact the prison directly if you need to arrange any of the following:

  • legal visits, for example legal professionals discussing the prisoner’s case
  • reception visits, for example the first visit to the prisoner within 72 hours of being admitted
  • double visits, for example visiting for 2 hours instead of 1
  • family day visits - special family events that the prison organises

Help with the costs of prison visits

You may be able to get help with the cost of prison visits if you’re getting certain benefits or have a health certificate.