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 Kentucky, while there is no specific statute that explicitly addresses virtual visitation, family courts have the discretion to include virtual visitation as a component of a child custody arrangement. The courts in Kentucky prioritize the best interest of the child when making custody and visitation determinations, which can include the use of technology to facilitate communication between a parent and child when they are geographically separated. This means that if a parent requests virtual visitation and can demonstrate that it would be in the best interest of the child, a Kentucky court may grant such a request. The court will consider factors such as the child's age, the distance between the parent and child, the nature of the parent-child relationship, and the availability of technology to both parties. As with any custody-related matter, it is advisable for a parent to consult with an attorney to understand how the principles of the best interest of the child may apply to their specific situation regarding virtual visitation.