This page was automatically translated using the online service DeepL. The translation is intended to aid understanding and may contain language-specific inaccuracies. The official text is written in German. Any discrepancies or differences resulting solely from the translation are not legally binding. In case of doubt, the German version shall prevail. It is recommended to consult a qualified translator in case of doubt.

Applying for a Firearms Permit (Green and Yellow WBK)

  • Service description

    Female and male hunters

    Hunters receive a green firearms ownership card (WBK), which always contains specific entries for firearms—a blank WBK is not issued. With a valid hunting license, hunters may purchase long guns and the corresponding long-gun ammunition. It is advisable to submit the for the long gun directly along with the application for the WBK to simplify the process.

    For handguns, however, a permit to purchase (known as a “pre-registration”) is required, and this must be applied for separately. In addition, a separate permit to purchase ammunition is required for handguns.

    All necessary applications—whether for the issuance of the WBK, preliminary registration of handguns, or a permit to purchase ammunition—can be submitted using the same application form .


    Competitive shooters

    Sport shooters can obtain a green and/or yellow firearm ownership card (WBK), depending on their specific sport and the associated need. The yellow WBK requires a one-time demonstration of need. With the yellow WBK, sport shooters can then purchase the following types of firearms:

    • Single-shot long guns with smoothbore and rifled barrels
    • Bolt-action rifles with rifled barrels
    • Single-shot, single-barrel handguns for cartridge ammunition
    • multi-shot handguns and rifles with percussion caps (percussion firearms)

    For the green WBK, an authorization to acquire each weapon (known as a “pre-registration”) is required, and this must be applied for separately. Check to see if you may also need an ammunition acquisition permit. The issuance of the WBK, the preliminary entries for individual firearms, and the ammunition acquisition permit can all be applied for directly using the same application form .

  • Procedure

    Procedure for Applying for a Firearms Possession Card (WBK)

    To apply for a yellow and/or green firearms license, please submit the designated application form .

    Provided that all requirements are met, you will be issued a firearms ownership card and/or the requested registration will be processed. The firearms ownership card will be mailed to you along with the fee notice.


    Procedure for Applying for Preliminary Registration (Including Ammunition Purchase)

    To apply for a preliminary registration, please submit the application form provided for this purpose . For each preliminary registration, please indicate whether an ammunition purchase permit is required by checking either “Yes” or “No.”

    Provided that all requirements are met, the preliminary entry (along with the ammunition purchase permit) will be recorded on your firearms ownership card. This will be mailed to you along with the fee notice.

  • Prerequisites

    • Minimum age:
      18 years
      (25 years of age for the possession of large-caliber firearms as a sport shooter)

    • Reliability
       
    • Personal Suitability 
       
    • Proof of Need:
      For hunters, proof of need is provided by a valid hunting license. Sport shooters, on the other hand, must separately submit a corresponding certificate of need from their shooting sports association or an affiliated sub-association.
       
    • Proof of Competence:
      Hunters are considered qualified based on their valid hunting license. Sport shooters, on the other hand, must separately submit a corresponding certificate of need from their shooting sports association or an affiliated sub-association.
  • What documents are required?

    • Application for a Firearms Permit
       
    • Proof of Secure Storage:
      You must specify how the firearms and their ammunition are stored. To do so, you must provide a statement regarding storage must be attached, confirming their safe and proper storage.
       
    • Proof of need:
      Hunting license or certificate from a shooting sports association
       
    • Proof of Qualification:
      Hunting license or certificate of competence
  • What fees apply?

    Fees are charged by the firearms authority for applications for a firearms ownership permit, a preliminary registration, or a permit to purchase ammunition.

    Under the Firearms Act, your reliability is reviewed every three years, which also incurs regular fees.

    The fees under firearms law can be found in Section 7 of the Appendix to the Administrative Cost Regulations for the Ministry of the Interior, Security, and Homeland Protection

     

     

  • Applications / Forms


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