Gun Laws in the World: The United States is the easiest place in the world to own guns. It’s the only country where you can buy a gun at a convenience store. In many states, a background check isn’t required unless you’re buying from a federally licensed firearm dealer.
According to liveandinvestoverseas, Guns can even be advertised online and can cost as little as $100, making it one of the cheapest places to buy them. The estimated number of guns per capita is around 1.2, meaning there are more guns than people in the U.S.
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But what about other countries? Where else can you own a gun?
If you’re planning to start a new life abroad and your hobbies include sport hunting, you’re concerned about the safety of your family, or you just enjoy visiting the nearest gun range, you may want to bring your guns with you to your new country.
However, there are a few things to consider when choosing a gun-friendly destination. In many countries, you need to be a citizen to obtain a gun permit, although some countries allow permanent residents to own guns as well.
In most countries, you’ll need a special permit to import your guns. Without this permit, you may face fines or even jail time. Shipping weapons internationally is a sensitive process, so before you decide on your destination, it’s essential to research the local gun laws and understand how to legally bring your firearms with you.
With that in mind, here are the 10 countries with the friendliest gun laws.
10 Countries with the Easiest Gun Laws in the World
10. Bosnia and Herzegovina
The weather may not appeal to everyone, and the language barrier can be tough, but Bosnia has some of the most relaxed gun laws in Eastern Europe. Around 31% of the population owns guns, and 34% of households in Bosnia have one or more firearms.
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Gun permits are issued by the police, and if your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Once you receive a permit, you automatically gain the right to carry a concealed weapon.
9. France
France is frequently ranked highly for quality of life, thanks to its exceptional food, beautiful countryside, rich cultural heritage, and excellent healthcare system.
With nearly 20 guns per 100 people, France has a significant level of gun ownership in Europe. Obtaining a gun license in France is relatively straightforward if you meet the following criteria:
- Be older than 18 (or over 12 with permission for shooting sports);
- Be affiliated with a shooting range;
- Have followed at least three shooting sessions with an instructor;
- Submit a medical certificate stating you are physically and mentally fit.
8. Finland
Finland, often called the “Happiest Country in the World,” offers excellent healthcare, a high quality of life, and stunning mountain views. With a strong hunting tradition, Finland has a high rate of gun ownership, similar to other Nordic countries.
To obtain a gun license, individuals must undergo criminal and mental health checks and pass both a theory and practical exam. Approximately 34% of the population owns guns, but many older firearms, like those from World War II, are in circulation without official records.
Foreigners looking to hunt in Finland must either bring a valid hunting license from their home country or take the Finnish hunting exam. If using a foreign license, it must be verified by the Game Management Association.
7. Argentina
Argentina, the second-largest country in South America, is a hidden gem for expats, with its diverse landscapes, including dramatic mountains, salt lakes, and magnificent waterfalls. Along with its low cost of living, it’s an ideal destination for adventure-seeking retirees.
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Known as a popular hunting spot in the Americas, Argentina attracts over 20,000 hunting tourists each year. To own a gun in Argentina, you need legal temporary or permanent residency and a legitimate reason, such as target shooting or hunting.
Gun licenses cost between 300 to 500 Argentine pesos and are renewable every five years. There are no limits on the number of guns or ammo you can own, but open carry requires a permit, which is rarely granted. Concealed carry permits are also rarely issued, only if there’s evidence of a clear and present danger to the applicant’s life.
6. Norway
Norway is a beautiful and wealthy country, ideal for outdoor activities with its Fjords, wildlife, and stunning landscapes. It has a strong hunting tradition and one of the highest gun ownership rates per capita.
Gun licenses in Norway are issued for hunting and sports shooting, but only to responsible and sober individuals. Concealed and open carry are not allowed, but with a qualifying course and test, you may be eligible to own semi-automatic rifles with a special permit. For hunters, the licensing process involves a 30-hour, nine-session course and an exam, which also covers environmental protection.
5. Panama
Panama offers easy residency permits, a low cost of living, and high-quality healthcare, making it an attractive destination for expats. It’s also the safest country in Central America, partly due to private firearm ownership.
Gun ownership in Panama is relatively simple. While foreigners may face a longer application process, it’s still possible to obtain a permit. Short-barreled rifles and shotguns are legal. Concealed carry permits are also easy to get but must be renewed every four years, requiring proof of six hours of target practice annually. Semi-automatic weapons can be obtained with a special license.
Gun culture in Panama is small, and gun stores are limited, with prices often higher than in other countries.
4. Italy
Italy is a great place to retire, offering attractions like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Colosseum, delicious food, and Mediterranean weather. For firearm enthusiasts, Italy also allows gun ownership, but a license is required.
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There are three main types of licenses for owning guns in Italy: a hunting license, a shooting sports license, and a concealed carry license. The hunting license is the most popular, as it allows you to carry hunting-grade firearms. To obtain any of these licenses, you must be mentally fit and not have a history of drug or alcohol abuse. To get a concealed carry license, you must prove you are facing a real “threat to life.”
Depending on your license, you can carry different types of firearms.
- Up to three common firearms (usually handguns, but all firearms not using hunting calibers fall into this category, such as 10-gauge shotguns, or some .22 rimfire pistols and rifles);
- Up to six weapons that have been classified as manufactured for shooting sports by the National Proof House;
- An unlimited number of hunting weapons (both rifles and shotguns);
- Up to eight antique or historical weapons (manufactured before 1890);
- Unlimited numbers of single shot muzzle loader replicas, for which no registration is needed;
- Unlimited numbers of air guns under 7.5 Joules of muzzle energy, specifically approved by the Ministry of Interior, which require no registration as well.
3. Canada
Canada is a popular destination for American expats due to its public healthcare, stable economy, low crime rates, and minimal culture shock. It also has a strong hunting tradition, with 34.7% of people owning firearms. However, after a crackdown in May 2020, over 1,500 types of assault-style firearms were banned.
To own a gun in Canada, you must have a “possession and acquisition license” (PAL), which requires passing background checks. This license must be renewed every five years. There are also restrictions on how guns can be used in Canada.
- Concealed carry is highly restricted for civilians,
- When stored, guns must be unloaded and rendered inoperable or locked,
- Handguns under 105 mm in barrel length are prohibited,
- Semi-automatics require a special permit and training.
2. Czech Republic
The Czech Republic offers Old World charm at a lower cost, with Prague often compared to Paris. After years of struggle, including two civil wars, Czechs regained their gun rights after communism fell, and now have some of the most relaxed gun laws in Europe.
Recreational shooting is popular, and self-defense rights are strongly recognized. Citizens can obtain concealed-carry permits without stating a reason and carry up to two concealed firearms. To get a gun license, applicants must be at least 15 or 21, pass exams, and undergo a police review.
1. Switzerland
Switzerland offers a high standard of living, with low crime rates and a strong food culture. Zurich, the largest city, regularly ranks among the best cities to live in. Known for its relaxed gun laws, Switzerland used to require males to keep military firearms at home until 2010, but now the service is voluntary. Citizens over 18 can buy single-shot and bolt-action rifles without a permit.
Concealed carry is allowed only with proof of genuine need, and automatic rifles can be obtained with a special permit, typically for hunting.
