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 Vermont, 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. Vermont courts focus on the best interest of the child standard when making custody determinations, which can include considering the use of technology to maintain the parent-child relationship. If a parent lives far away or travels frequently for work, a Vermont court may determine that virtual visitation through video calls, messaging, or other electronic means is in the child's best interest to facilitate regular contact with the non-custodial parent. An attorney can provide guidance on how to approach the inclusion of virtual visitation in a custody agreement and can assist in advocating for such provisions in family court.