[This explainer is supported by CFLI]
October 2025
By Aitzaz Ibrahim
LAHORE:
Visiting loved ones in prison is not only a legal right, it is also an essential emotional connection for families. However, the process can often be confusing and difficult for most. Many people are unaware of the required documents, the official visiting days, and the basic rules that must be followed with regard to prison visits.
This guide explains how the visitation process works, who can meet an inmate, what items can be delivered, and how to seek free legal assistance from the AGHS Legal Aid Cell.
Understanding the prison visitation process
According to Advocate Qamar Hanif Ramay, a High Court lawyer, meetings with prisoners are conducted according to rules found in the Jail Manual, and this applies to all prisons not just in Punjab, but across the country. The manual specifies which days are reserved for visits based on the type of crime.
Designated visiting days
Monday: Prisoners convicted in cases of assault, murder, rape, cheque fraud, or FIA-related offenses
Tuesday: Juvenile prisoners (under 18) and high-security prisoners, for example death row prisoners
Wednesday: Prisoners involved in narcotics cases
Thursday: Prisoners charged with assault, murder, rape, cheque fraud, or FIA-related cases
Friday: Prisoners involved in theft or robbery cases
Saturday: Prisoners facing NAB-related cases
Visitation days are strictly followed according to this schedule, and families should plan their visits accordingly.
Documents required for a prison visit
Advocate Ramay explains that the visitor must carry their original CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card). Additionally, a copy of the inmate’s FIR should be provided to help the prison administration verify the inmate’s identity and case details. Without these documents, visitors may not be allowed entry.
Who is allowed to meet an inmate?
In principle, anyone has the right to meet a prisoner, whether a relative, friend, or acquaintance. However, in practice, the prison administration prioritizes immediate family members such as parents, siblings, spouses, or children.
Lawyers also hold a legal right to meet their clients in prison to discuss case progress and provide legal consultation.
What items can be given to prisoners?
Families are allowed to bring certain essential items for inmates. These include clothing, food and beverages, cigarettes (wherever they are permitted), books and reading material, basic daily-use items.
However, all items are thoroughly checked by security staff before being handed over. Any object considered a security risk is confiscated and not allowed inside.
Seeking free legal aid from AGHS
AGHS Legal Aid Cell was co-founded in 1980 by the late Asma Jahangir, one of Pakistan’s most renowned human rights lawyers and activists.
Since its establishment, AGHS has been dedicated to providing free legal representation to vulnerable women and children, bonded labourers, prisoners, and members of religious minorities. Over the years, it has grown into one of the country’s most respected legal institutions, known for its commitment to justice, equality, and constitutional rights.
Today, AGHS stands as a leading law firm in constitutional and family law, continuing Asma Jahangir’s legacy of defending the voiceless and challenging systemic injustice across Pakistan.