How video visitation works
Video visitation comes in two flavors: on-site (you visit a kiosk in the facility lobby) and remote (you connect from home using a phone, tablet, or computer). Both are run by the facility's contracted vendor — almost always Securus, ViaPath, ICSolutions, or HomeWAV. Calls are scheduled in 15- to 30-minute blocks and must usually be booked at least 24 hours in advance.
Cost
On-site video visits are typically free at the visitor's end (the facility absorbs the cost). Remote video visits range from $0.20 to $0.50 per minute. A 30-minute remote visit with most county jails costs $6 to $15.
Equipment and bandwidth
You need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a working camera and microphone, plus the vendor's app installed. Securus Video Connect, GettingOut by ViaPath, and HomeWAV all publish iOS and Android apps. A stable connection of at least 1 Mbps upload is required; spotty Wi-Fi will drop the call.
Related: trusted reentry directory.
What to wear and what to show
The same dress code that applies to in-person visits applies on video: no nudity, no gang colors or signs, no inmate-resembling clothing, and no other visitors on camera who are not on the approved list. Background matters too: facilities will end calls if they see other people coming and going behind you.
Related: family support resources.
When the call drops
If the system fails before your scheduled time, request a refund through the vendor's app — most will issue a credit or a free reschedule within a few business days. Document the timestamp and the error message; refunds for "user-side" issues (your Wi-Fi, your camera) are not granted.
Related: prison consulting services.
Why some families still prefer in-person
Even where video visitation is offered, in-person visiting (where allowed) remains free, longer, and more meaningful — particularly for children. Many advocacy groups have pushed back against jails that eliminated in-person visiting entirely after adding video, and several states now require both options.