In Poland, the possession of firearms is regulated by law. It requires obtaining the appropriate permit. This process is quite complex and requires a number of conditions to be met. In 2024, several significant changes have been made to the regulations on firearms permits, which are worth knowing before starting the procedure.
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Who can apply for a gun permit?
To be able to apply for a firearms permit in Poland, you must meet a few basic conditions:
- At least 21 years old: People under this age cannot legally own firearms.
- Permanent residence in Poland: Registration for permanent residence in Poland is required.
- No health contraindications: It is necessary to obtain a positive medical and psychological certificate confirming the absence of contraindications to possession of a weapon.
- No criminal record: Persons convicted of intentional crimes, in particular violent crimes, cannot be granted a permit.
- Knowledge of regulations and ability to use weapons: You must pass a state exam that tests your knowledge of gun law and practical skills.
Types of gun permits
In Poland, you can obtain a gun permit for various purposes:
- Permit for weapons for sports purposes: It allows you to have firearms designed for sports shooting .
- Permit for weapons for hunting purposes: Issued to hunters and allows the possession of hunting weapons.
- Permit for weapons for collector’s purposes: It allows you to collect firearms of historical or collector’s value.
- Gun permit for historical reenactment: It allows you to own firearms used in historical reenactments.
- Gun permit for personal protection: Issued in exceptional situations when there is a real threat to life or health.
How to get a gun permit in 2024?
The procedure for obtaining a firearms permit in 2024 is multi-stage:
- Medical and psychological examinations: You should go to a doctor authorized to examine candidates for gun owners and to a psychologist who will issue appropriate certificates. Important: From 19 June 2024, new, simplified rules for these tests are in force.
- Applying: An application for a firearms permit is submitted to the competent provincial commander of the Police. The application should be accompanied by:
- Medical and psychological certificate.
- Two photos.
- Proof of payment of stamp duty.
- State exam: After the application is approved, the candidate is sent to the state exam. It consists of a theoretical and practical part.
- Issuance of the decision: After passing the exam, the provincial commander of the Police issues a decision on the issuance of a weapon permit.
Changes in regulations in 2024
In 2024, several significant changes were made to the regulations on gun permits:
- Simplified medical and psychological examinations: From 19 June 2024, new rules for testing are in force. They are aimed at streamlining and accelerating the process of obtaining certificates.
- New document templates: From October 2, 2024, provincial police commanders issue new public documents, including gun permits.
Costs of obtaining a firearms permit
Obtaining a firearms permit involves certain costs:
- Stamp duty for issuing the permit: PLN 242
- Cost of medical and psychological examinations: It depends on the price list of the facility where the tests are performed.
- State exam fee: It is determined by the provincial commander of the Police.
Safety and responsibility
Owning a firearm is a big responsibility. The owner of the weapon is obliged to follow the safety rules and store the weapon in a way that prevents unauthorized access. You should also remember to regularly participate in shooting training to improve your skills and maintain a high level of safety.
Summary
Obtaining a firearms permit in Poland in 2024 requires meeting a number of conditions and going through a multi-stage procedure. The changes in the regulations introduced this year are aimed at streamlining and accelerating the process of obtaining a permit. It still requires candidates to be properly prepared and take security seriously.
