Virtual visitation is a form of visitation in child custody arrangements, and relies on videoconferencing, videotelephony, and other technology to maintain the parent-child relationship when the parent and child are separated by significant distances. Virtual visitation may be a viable option for at least some visitation when the child lives in another city, town, or state with the custodial parent, or when one parent travels for work and is away from home for extended periods. Although virtual visitation has its limitations, some states have passed laws (statutes) that allow courts to order online/electronic/internet/virtual visitation. And some courts in states without specific laws on virtual visitation have considered or ordered it, based on the overarching standard of what is in the best interest of the child.

In Iowa, virtual visitation is recognized as a legitimate form of child visitation and can be incorporated into custody arrangements. Iowa Code section 598.1 defines 'electronic communication' to include communication facilitated by tools such as email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and other wired or wireless technologies that allow for visual and audio interaction. The court may grant electronic communication between a parent and child when it is in the best interest of the child, considering factors such as the geographic distance between the parent and child, the child's schedule, and the feasibility of the parent-child electronic communication. While virtual visitation is not intended to replace in-person visitation, it is an additional method to help maintain and foster the parent-child relationship when physical presence is challenging due to distance or other circumstances. As with all custody-related matters, the primary consideration for the court is the best interest of the child.