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Guidance on the Export of Firearms

The UK, like many other countries, controls the movement of strategic goods from the UK to other countries, including arms, ammunition and related equipment. This applies even if the export is temporary (eg for an exhibition, a competition or for hunting). 

In many situations, the legislation will permit an export without the need for an export licence, provided certain requirements are met.  However, in other cases, you will need to apply for an export licence from the ECO.  

Depending on your whether you are an individual or a business exporting firearms you are likely to require a combination of the following customs documents:  

• European Firearms Pass (issued by your local UK police force)
• Export Licence (issued by the ECO)
  • Note: Different licence types are issued depending on the nature of export.
• EC3, EC4 and EC5 Forms
• Firearms Certificate (proving ownership of item)
• Prior Import Consent or PIC (obtained by destination country of import)

The guidance includes information on:

• Which items are covered
• Position over "personal effects"
• Individuals temporarily exporting firearms to EU member states
• Individuals permanently exporting firearms to EU member states
• Individuals temporarily or permanently exporting firearms beyond the EU
• Businesses exporting firearms within or beyond the EU
• Registered firearms dealers and similar businesses
• Applying for a Standard Individual Export Licence (SIEL) via SPIRE
• Other Licensing Considerations
• Frequently Asked Questions

For more details view the document:

Export Control Organisation: guidance on the export of firearms (79KB)

Export Control Organisation

Updated: 7 May 2009