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 Indiana, virtual visitation is not explicitly defined by statute, but Indiana courts have the discretion to consider and include virtual visitation as part of a parenting time order if it serves the best interest of the child. The Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines provide a framework for parenting time but do not specifically address virtual visitation. However, the guidelines encourage frequent and continuing contact between the child and both parents, and virtual visitation can be a tool to achieve this when physical visitation is impractical due to distance or other circumstances. When determining custody and visitation, Indiana courts focus on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as the age and sex of the child, the wishes of the child's parent(s), the child's adjustment to their home, school, and community, and the mental and physical health of all individuals involved. If virtual visitation is proposed, the court will likely consider how it fits within these factors and whether it facilitates a positive relationship between the non-custodial parent and the child.