Importing or exporting firearms in Uganda is a tightly regulated process overseen by the Firearms Licensing Board under the Ministry of Internal Affairs. All firearms and ammunition brought into Uganda — whether for sporting, hunting, or personal protection — require prior authorization.
The procedure is governed by the Firearms Act 299, Section 2, which prohibits unauthorized importation and ensures that weapons entering Uganda are used strictly for approved purposes.
This guide explains how to apply for a Firearm Import or Export Permit in Uganda, who qualifies, what documents are needed, and the applicable fees.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Submit a Written Application
Applicants must first make a written application to the Firearm Licensing Board (FLB) in Uganda through their nearest Ugandan Embassy or High Commission.
The Chief Licensing Officer, appointed by the Commissioner of Police, oversees firearm regulation.
Only firearms suitable for sporting or protection purposes (excluding military-grade weapons) may be considered.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
Once your request is received, the embassy or licensing authority will issue an application form.
You must complete the form with accurate information and attach the required documents listed below.
Applications without valid home-country firearm licenses or supporting documents will be rejected.
For foreigners, a permit from your home country authorizing firearm possession is mandatory.
A local permit is also needed to re-import a weapon previously taken out of Uganda.
Step 3: Firearm Registration Upon Arrival
Upon arrival in Uganda, the authorities will register the firearm’s serial number and ammunition details.
This applies to individuals importing guns for hunting, sporting, or personal protection.
All weapons are verified and recorded by customs and police authorities at the port of entry.
Firearms and ammunition may not be transferred to another person while in Uganda.
Note that short-barreled shotguns (less than 18 inches) or weapons with overall lengths below 26 inches are prohibited.
Step 4: Issuance of the Permit
If the assessment is satisfactory, the applicant will be issued a Firearm Import or Export Permit in booklet form, bearing their passport photo and stamped by the national police headquarters.
The permit allows the temporary use of the firearm within Uganda for the stated purpose (e.g., sport shooting or protection).
After completion of the activity, all firearms and unused ammunition must be exported out of Uganda.
Bonded weapons are handed back to the applicant upon departure.
Step 5: Hand Over Weapons Upon Entry and Exit
All firearms and ammunition must be declared at customs and handed over to the authorities upon arrival.
A receipt will be issued for each firearm or ammunition batch received.
The weapons will remain in bonded storage under police supervision until departure, when they are returned to the owner.
Required Documents
Applicants must attach the following documents to their application:
- Four passport-sized photographs
- Attested proof of address (utility bill or tenancy document)
- Proof of date of birth (passport or birth certificate)
- Affidavit of birth for illiterate applicants (sworn before a Magistrate or Notary)
- Police clearance certificate
- Duly filled firearm application form
- Copy of firearm permit/license from the applicant’s home country
- Medical report confirming fitness to own or handle a firearm
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a holder of a valid firearm license
- Be a resident or foreign national with a valid entry pass for guns or ammunition
- Foreign tourists must hold a valid tourist visa before applying
- Applicants must demonstrate justifiable need (e.g., sport, hunting, or protection)
Fees
| Permit Type | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Firearms Dealer (per permit) | 1,000 |
| Resident (per gun) | 200 |
| Ammunition (per batch) | 900 |
| Pistols and Revolvers | 2,000 |
| Sport Hunting Permit | 100 |
| Bulk Sporting Ammunition (≤500 rounds) | 150–200 |
| Fishing Gun Permit | 200 |
| Non-Resident Permit | 300 |
Validity
The Firearm Import or Export Permit is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.
Applicants must reapply if the period lapses before entry or exit.
Processing Time
The process takes approximately 60 days, including background verification and inter-agency approval.
Office Contact Information
Ministry of Internal Affairs – Firearms Licensing Board
Plot 75, Jinja Road, Kampala, Uganda
P.O. Box 7191, Kampala
Tel: +256 414 595945
Fax: +256 424 434088
Email: [email protected]
Website: Ministry of Internal Affairs Uganda
Instructions
- All foreign citizens must register with their home embassy upon arrival in Uganda.
- Firearms must be bonded and held by the proper authorities until departure.
- Importation of all military or unlicensed weapons is strictly prohibited.
- Civilians are only allowed small arms such as pistols, revolvers, or self-loading rifles.
- The firearm permit does not authorize sale or transfer of firearms within Uganda.
Required Information
- Full name and postal address
- Permanent and temporary residence
- Nationality and occupation
- Reason for requiring the firearm (sport, protection, etc.)
- Firearm type, serial number, and ammunition details
- Previous firearm licenses held
- Quantity and caliber of ammunition requested
- Signature and date of application
Need for the Document
A Firearm Import or Export Permit is mandatory to legally bring firearms or ammunition into or out of Uganda.
The permit ensures compliance with Uganda’s Firearms Act and prevents illegal weapons trafficking or misuse.
Without this permit, individuals risk severe penalties, including imprisonment for 7–15 years for unauthorized importation.
Additional Information
- Non-resident visitors must surrender firearms upon entry and can reclaim them before leaving.
- Diplomats and law enforcement visitors are not exempt from firearm regulations.
- The list of firearms and corresponding serial numbers must be presented to customs at the port of entry.
