Firearm import rules by country
Sport shooters and hunters carrying licensed firearms across borders face a permit lead-time that varies sharply by destination. This matrix summarises 10 destinations.
United States
ATF Form 6 (60-90 day lead) required for sport / hunting imports. Federal Firearms License (FFL) handles import. Foreign visitors hunting must use Form 6NIA + ATF Form 6.
United Kingdom
UK is highly restrictive. Visiting hunters need a Visitor's Permit issued by local police; firearms must match the FAC calibres + quantities. No handguns (banned 1997).
Australia
Each state regulates differently. Customs B709 form + state Police Permit + IATA shipping. Hunting / sport-shooting visitors must coordinate with hosting club.
Germany
Strict permit regime under Waffengesetz. Hunting visitors use European Firearms Pass (EFP) for EU-origin firearms; non-EU need BKA clearance.
France
EU EFP for intra-EU travel; non-EU hunters need préfecture-issued temporary permit. Strict storage rules at destination.
Canada
Non-Resident Firearms Declaration (Form CAFC 909) at border for hunting / sport. PAL not required for visitors. Restricted firearms (handguns) effectively impossible for visitors post-2022 ban.
New Zealand
Visitor's Firearm Licence (VFL) issued by NZ Police; A-category only (post-2019 reforms). Pistols and Military-Style Semi-Automatics (MSSA) banned for visitors.
Japan
Civilian firearm ownership requires 1-year vetting + permit application; tourist hunting permits effectively unavailable. Imports prohibited under Firearm and Sword Possession Control Law.
United Arab Emirates
Sport-shooting events held under FAS or Olympic federations require MOI pre-approval 60+ days in advance. Civilian firearm ownership requires Federal Firearm Licence (UAE nationals only).
South Africa
SAPS Temporary Import Permit (TIP) for hunting / sport-shooting visitors. SA Hunters and Game Conservation Association (SAHGCA) typically coordinates.