Reviewed on: April 25,2026
Visitation

Can a foreign citizen visit an inmate in the US

Hi my brother William Klaus Myers is at the moment in the Wichita Falls County Jail. He has been arrested for violation of probation and dwi 3rd or more and without a Bond. My question is I'm a German Citizen and I live in Germany. In case he has to do time, can I go visit him since I'm not a American Citizen and how would it go? Thank you

Yes, being a German citizen does not prevent you from visiting him.
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Answered by a former federal inmate · 14+ years advising families
✓ Verified answer August 28,2016 · Visitation
1

Yes, being a German citizen does not prevent you from visiting him.

US jails and prisons generally allow international visitors, but you still have to go through the same approval process as anyone else.

What you will need to do:

  • Be added to his approved visitation list
  • Complete any visitor application required by the facility
  • Provide valid identification, usually your passport

What they will look at:

  • Your criminal history (a felony record can be an issue)
  • Any pending legal matters
  • Your relationship to the inmate

How visitation works (county jail like Wichita Falls):

  • Visits are scheduled on specific days and times
  • You may need to book in advance
  • Security screening is required when you arrive

Important for international visitors:

  • Call the jail ahead of time to confirm their exact rules
  • Ask if they have any additional requirements for foreign nationals
  • Make sure your name is approved before traveling

If you cannot travel:
You can still stay in touch through:

  • Letters
  • Phone calls (once set up)
  • Video visitation, if the jail offers it

Bottom line
Yes, you can visit as a non US citizen. Just make sure you are approved in advance and follow the facility’s visitation process so you do not run into issues when you arrive.

Accepted Answer Date Created: August 28,2016
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About this answer: This response was prepared by InmateAid’s editorial team in consultation with former inmates who have direct experience with the federal correctional system. InmateAid has served families of the incarcerated since 2012. This is general information only — not legal advice. Last reviewed April 2026.