Can Federal Inmates Make International Phone Calls?

Yes, it is possible in some cases, but international calling from federal prison is complicated and the rules vary by facility.

Most federal facilities use a contracted phone provider, typically Securus or ICSolutions, and international calls are not automatically enabled on every account. The number you want to reach has to be on the inmate's approved call list first, and not all providers support international numbers in every country. Getting an international number approved requires submitting it through the proper channels and waiting for it to clear, which can take time.

Calling cards are another option some inmates use, but their availability depends entirely on the facility. Some institutions allow them, others have moved entirely to the prison phone system and do not permit outside calling cards at all. FMC Lexington's satellite camp would need to be contacted directly to confirm what is currently permitted.

The cost of international calls through the prison phone system is also significant. Rates for calls outside the United States are considerably higher than domestic calls and can add up quickly without a plan in place.

One practical workaround worth exploring is a virtual U.S. phone number. Services exist that provide a domestic U.S. number that forwards calls to an international destination. If your mother's facility approves a U.S. number on her call list, calls placed to that number could reach you in Jerusalem at a much lower rate than a direct international call.

Contact FMC Lexington's satellite camp directly to ask about their international calling policy and what steps are needed to get a foreign number approved.