Instructions for setting up Ameelio to schedule in-person or video visits
Getting Started Guide for Ameelio:
In order to schedule an in-person visit or video call, all visitors must use the Ameelio Connect app.
All visitors 13 years and older will need to create an Ameelio Connect account after being approved by the DOC to visit.
- Ameelio Connect is only available on iPhones, iPads, and Android Phones.
- Ameelio Connect is not currently available on computers or laptops.
If you cannot download the Ameelio Connect app and wish to schedule an in-person visit, please contact the facility where the individual is incarcerated and request help to manually schedule a visit.
How to video: Here is a link to the YouTube walkthrough video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ImRjVIJ9no
STEP 1 - Download the Connect App
For iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/app/connect-visits-video/id1552990942
For Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.connectmobile
Relevant FAQs:
STEP 2: Create and Verify your Account
After creating an account you will be asked to verify your identity. For this step, you will need a government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license or a passport). You will then be asked to take three photos:
- The front of your photo ID
- The back of your photo ID
- A selfie of you holding your ID with the photo ID facing the camera.
(see the demo video for examples)
IMPORTANT: Only the visitation staff will have access to your documents
Relevant FAQs:
STEP 3: Verify your Account
After you submit your photos, you can then add your incarcerated contact by clicking ‘Request Contact’. On this page you must select the incarcerated individual’s facility. Then you can find your contact by searching by their name or inmate ID number.
Relevant FAQs:
STEP 4: Facility Approval
After you add your contact, the Iowa DOC will then approve you as an approved video visitor. Once you are approved, we will notify you so you can start scheduling video calls or in-person visits with your loved one.
Relevant FAQs:
STEP 5: Schedule Visit
Once you have been notified you’ve been approved, you can now schedule visits with your loved one. Select the approved contact you’d like to visit and then hit schedule event where you will then select the type of visit. Choose the one you want and then select an available date from the calendar. Once you’ve scheduled the visit, it will need to be approved by DOC. Ameelio does not approve or reject any visit request. Once approved, you are ready to show up to your visit with your loved one!
IMPORTANT: All visitors 18 years of age or older must bring with them to all in-person visits a government-issued ID.
Relevant FAQs:
Ameelio Customer Support
Find additional assistance on the Ameelio’s Frequently Asked Questions.
The Connect Support request form can be used to contact Ameelio. Please fill out all fields and attach screenshots to help describe your issue. A Support team member will reach out to assist you.
- Please do not call the facility for additional support.
- Please use the customer support options above for assistance.
Please view the Iowa Department of Corrections Visiting Policy for more information on the DOC application and visiting process.