Although Teresa Giudice entered prison last week, her husband Joe didn't visit her during her first weekend there. According to a prison source, there are several reasons why Mr. Giudice wasn't there.

"Visitors with criminal records are usually not allowed to visit inmates," a source told People, adding that the prison's warden makes the decision.

Since the couple is married with four children, Gia, 13, Gabriela, 10, Milania, 8, and Audriana, 5, Joe will likely get approval from the warden to visit his wife.

"It happens all the time," the source said. "A spouse who is also a convicted felon is normally cleared. He'll most likely be allowed to visit."

However, other family members with a criminal record will not be allowed to visit. Additionally, every person the Real Housewives of New Jersey star lists as a visitors must undergo a background check and their approval may take a while.

"[I]t's unusual to have them visit the first weekend," the source said. "It's not an automatic process. It can take up to two weeks for immediate family members to get approved - especially since the warden is so busy with the men's prison there, which he also runs."

Giudice was sentenced in New Jersey in October for her involvement in a federal fraud case along with her husband of 15 years. After she entered prison, the reality star's sentence was reduced allowing her to leave on Feb. 5, 2016 instead of the initial April 2016 date.

Mr. Giudice received 41 months in prison and will start his sentence after his wife's release. He also may be deported to Italy once his sentence is finished since he's not a U.S. citizen.

Tags: teresa giudice