Apply for this licence
You need a visitor’s permit from the police to possess a firearm or ammunition as a non-resident in Northern Ireland.
This does not apply to GB residents who must apply for a separate certificate of approval.
How to apply
Download an application form from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) website.
The application must be made by a Northern Ireland resident acting as sponsor to the visitor.
As sponsor you must apply no less than 6 weeks before the visit.
You must include information on:
- visitor’s details
- your details as sponsor
- details of the firearms and/or ammunition
- reasons for possession in Northern Ireland
- where the firearms will be used
- arrangements for storage and safe custody when not in use
Your visitor must have the required permits to hold the firearm and/or ammunition lawfully in their own country. You must include a copy of the visitor’s current domestic firearms permit.
Fees and charges
A fee of £16 is payable per individual permit or £80 for a group application of 6 or more permits.
Conditions
The permit will specify the firearm and/or ammunition to which it relates and may be subject to conditions.
Fines and penalties
It is a criminal offence for non-GB visitors in Northern Ireland to carry firearms and/or ammunition without a visitor’s permit, or to fail to comply with a visitor’s permit’s conditions.