Importing firearms and ammunition into India is tightly regulated to ensure safety and security. Governed by the Arms Act of 1959 and Arms Rules of 2016, the process involves licenses, customs duties, and strict compliance. This guide details the steps, legal requirements, and tips for importing firearms, whether for personal use, sports, or as an NRI.
Table of Contents
Transfer of Residence (TR) Concession
The Transfer of Residence (TR) concession allows Indian nationals or NRIs returning after 2+ years abroad (with less than 180 days in India) to import personal firearms. Requirements include:
- Licenses from the DGFT and Ministry of Home Affairs.
- Proof of sporting use (e.g., shooting club membership).
- Compliance with the Arms Act of 1959 and Arms Rules of 2016.
Can NRI Bring Guns to India?
NRIs who owned a firearm abroad for over two years can apply for an Indian arms license to import it. The process requires DGFT approval, a background check, and registration with local police upon arrival. Consult the Indian Customs Service for details.
Legal Framework
The Arms Act of 1959 and Arms Rules of 2016 govern firearm imports in India. These laws specify permissible arms, licensing, and import procedures, prioritizing public safety. Importers must align with Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines to avoid penalties.
Licensing Requirements
Importing firearms requires an Import License from the DGFT and Ministry of Home Affairs. Applicants need:
- A valid purpose (e.g., sports, hunting).
- Shooting club membership (if applicable).
- Clearance from local police and NCRB.
Customs and Excise Duties
Firearms and ammunition face customs duties under HSN Code 9302 (firearms) or 9306 (ammunition), typically 28% GST plus additional cess. Declare items at the red channel upon arrival at airports like Mumbai Airport. Rates vary by firearm value; see HSN Code & GST Rates.
What Kind of Gun Can You Own in India?
Non-prohibited bore firearms (e.g., rifles, shotguns, handguns under .22 caliber) are allowed with a license. Prohibited bore firearms (over .22 caliber, machine guns, assault rifles) are banned for civilians. Verify with Indian Customs for specifics.
Restricted and Prohibited Firearms
Automatic and semi-automatic firearms, along with certain ammunition, are prohibited or restricted. The DGFT and Ministry of Home Affairs regularly update banned items. Check MHA guidelines before importing to avoid confiscation.
Transportation and Storage
Firearms must be transported in checked baggage, declared, and securely packed. In India, store them in approved gun safes and register with local police. Non-compliance risks legal action under the Arms Act. See weapon customs rules.
Special Permissions
Armed forces personnel or government entities may receive special import permissions, subject to case-by-case scrutiny. Contact the Ministry of Home Affairs for tailored guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I import a firearm for personal use in India?
Yes, with an Import License from DGFT and Ministry of Home Affairs, typically for sports or hunting, plus police registration.
What is the customs duty on firearms in India?
Duties are ~28% GST plus cess under HSN Code 9302/9306, based on value. Declare at the red channel to avoid penalties.
Can NRIs import firearms under TR concession?
Yes, if owned abroad for 2+ years, with DGFT approval and local police registration upon arrival.
Are semi-automatic firearms allowed in India?
No, semi-automatic and automatic firearms are prohibited for civilians. Only non-prohibited bore firearms are allowed.
Importing firearms into India is complex but manageable with proper licensing and compliance. Engage experts via Indian Customs or consult Delhi Airport for guidance. Explore more:
31 comments:
I understand import of a used motorcycle to India is subjected to 105% duty where as a new one is charged at only 30%. I intend to bring a two year used Motorcycle which is registered in my name on TR and advise how much should I shell out at the Customs.
i want to bring airgun to India from Germany. I want to know is it allowed or not??
i want to gift air pistol and air riffle to my nephew in india..can i do so? if there are any regulations for the same pls let me know..thanks.
An air rifle is not considered a firearm. one with .177 can be imported without any trouble (.22 too but may go through additional scrutiny).
Being a member of a shooting club in India helps.
Dear All, Could someone please explain to me that is it one weapon in a lifetime or one weapon per Transfer of residence?? I have valid all India license for a rifle and shotgun. Can i bring both on consecutive TR?? I am also a rifle club member and have won medals in my state. Please help with the Info!
What is the rate of custom duty charged for importing two wheelers and 4 wheelers ? so they vary from country to country ?
iam an indian & i proud for to a indian even though i feel shame on my self that why i born in such a shameless country ruled by such a blady bas--d politicians, 150% of tax on importing goods, thoooooooo on our govt. abey g-n-u log, if u guts in u r asssssss come and work with labors who r working under a hooooooootttttt sun, sitting ideally on a wheel chair under AC and looting to innocent people is a job of chekka, so u peoples r (india govt )choooooooooo tiye simply.
Jourden....
does a sword count as a firearm i have bought it over seas and want to bring it back to india it is just a decoretive sword and not sharp but metal will that be a problem
I had bought a decorative sword when residing overseas.Does not have sharp edges and is mounted on a wooden board.I want to bring it over to India. What is the rule to get the same or would it pose a problem..
SPF
May i request to let me know if replica swords to be used in house interior decoration can be brought into INDIA. I am a resident of INDIA curently on short visit to HK (1 WEEK)
hi
thanks everyone for ur post and valueble suggestions.
i want to buy a main spring of diana model35 from uk and wanna take it with me to india?
is there any problem in same. i m not a member of any club or any organization. or is there any phone no. i can phone and ask the right person?
what shell i do, Kindley respond.
thank you.
i want to know that about airsoft guns which works on co2 gas are allowed in India or no?? because it looks more like a real gun and do i need document for airsoft gun.
pls let me know because i m gonna one
HELLO,SOME ONE TELL ME HOW TO BRING AIR GUN FROM EUROPE TO INDIA,
I AM SCARED TO CARRY WITH ME DUE TO OUR INDIAN AIR PORT CUSTOM.
THANK YOU.
ZID
I want to import a blank firing gun,,,,,,can it be possible without any trouble
The Custom officers are very sweet to talk to but are in fact very bad. The rule is NO DUTY on air guns of .177 but they confiscate it saying you are not a member of rifle association. The big officer says detain it and give him a chance but the junior officers want to be more loyal than the king. They are crooks. They detain it. I thought India had got over the licence and Babu Raj but no India has not changed a bit. Now I am most disappointed with India, it is not worth living here. The Babus want to make us slaves. They consfiscted a .177 Imported. Badmash hain. Crooks all. Clerks and petty officers rule India.
i plan to buy a paintball marker from the usa, would the customs clear it?
i want to buy a paintball gun from the usa, would customs clear it,
thanks
sheila
Heloo i m a rifel shuter i wanna .177 air rifel how can i get it and which paper nessesrey to get this rifel
The custom officers are all thug disguised in white uniforms. They are like leeches for returning passengers from abroad, they'll suck you up. Even if you are a member of any rifle club they WILL AS FOR BRIBE, may it be a .177 calibre rifle or pistol. If you are not a member just asked asked them how much they want.
So much for our Indian customs
Thanks
Asghar
one of my american friend is coming to India. i asked him to get me a .117 co2 pellet gun. will there be any problem at Mumbai customs? or any document required??
Air rifle or pistol is not legal in every country. Most of the countries air rifle or pistol carry is a crime. If you carry or use this without permission then it is a crime. So you should to know the law that where and when you use gun.<a href="http://www.bestairriflereview.net/category/rifle-cleaning/>http://www.bestairriflereview.net/</a>
I want to import a blank firing gun,,,,,,can it be possible without any trouble?
ll the customes paas it,in nagpur airport
I like hunting,So I am very impressive because I want to buy a air rifle for hunting. So I think this is the best air rifle for hunting .So any one can buy a rifle for the same reason.
Hello sir, I want to inport a blank gun And blank bullets from USA to India Maharashtra Nagpur, so ll ne problem cme in customes or holds?
plz tel me
I want to know that if buying an electric airsoft gun from website and then importing it in India is valid or not ?
Because it comes in toy category and it is 1:1 replica of real firearm and it shoots 6mm BBS.
HI I HAVE GOT LICENCE OF FIRE ARM AND I M HOLDING .22 RIFLE BRUNO MARK 2 BUT THE BARREL IS BAD SO PLS SOME CAN TELL ME HOW I CAN GET NEW BARREL OR IMPORT FROM OUTSIDE INDIA AS IT IS MADE IN GERMANY PLS EMAIL ME fernsnelly@yahoo.com
Don't worry about air guns unless your air guns don't use any ammunitions you can carry it anywhere with you. You don't even have to notify airlines about your air guns.
Hi how to import a blank pistol from international market.so how many document are required for coustom clearance.
Thank you
Hi how to import a blank pistol from international markets.and which documents are required for coustom clearance in India.
Thanks
I am ex army and vslun non prohibited arm licence holder, can I import .177 air pistol from Germany while I go on tourist visa
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